39083, Hazlehurst, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39083, Hazlehurst, Mississippi is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.32 percent of residents in 39083 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is King's Daughters Medical Center-Brookhaven with a distance of 19.26 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hazlehurst, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39083)

Deciphering healthcare access in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, requires a nuanced understanding of its transportation landscape. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" analysis, assesses the ease with which residents can reach medical appointments, focusing on those managing hypertension. This is particularly relevant when considering a move to Hazlehurst, as consistent healthcare access is vital for managing chronic conditions. The score incorporates drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, all crucial elements in ensuring timely medical attention.

The heart of the matter lies in the journey to and from healthcare facilities. For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries of transportation are **Highway 51** and **Highway 28**. These roads, while offering direct routes, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting appointment adherence. The drive time to the nearest major healthcare provider, such as the Copiah County Medical Center in Hazlehurst, is generally manageable. However, specialized care might necessitate travel to Jackson, approximately 50 miles north, a journey that could take over an hour depending on traffic.

Further complicating matters, Hazlehurst's public transportation infrastructure presents limited options. The availability of public transit is a crucial factor in our "Hypertension Score" calculation. The primary mode of public transportation is the Copiah County Transportation System, which provides demand-response services. Information on specific route numbers and ADA accessibility is limited. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or those unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are present in Hazlehurst, but their availability and responsiveness may fluctuate. The cost of these services, especially for frequent medical appointments, could become a financial burden. The "Hypertension Score" must factor in the potential financial implications of relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare visits.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are not typically designed for routine medical appointments. The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the role of emergency services but prioritizes the accessibility of regular healthcare.

When evaluating healthcare access, consider the potential impact of geographical isolation. Hazlehurst, while offering a close-knit community, is situated in a rural area. This remoteness can exacerbate transportation challenges, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" also takes into account the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth can bridge the gap in healthcare access by allowing patients to consult with their doctors remotely. However, telehealth is not a complete substitute for in-person visits, particularly for diagnostic testing or physical examinations.

The "Hypertension Score" is a dynamic assessment, not a static number. It reflects the evolving transportation landscape and healthcare resources available in Hazlehurst. It is essential to regularly reassess the score, particularly if there are changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare provider availability, or the patient's individual needs.

For those considering a move to Hazlehurst, understanding the "Hypertension Score" is crucial. It provides a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can receive timely and appropriate medical attention.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the potential impact of weather conditions on transportation. Severe weather events, such as heavy rain or ice, can disrupt travel and make it difficult to reach healthcare facilities. This factor is especially relevant in rural areas where road conditions may be less than ideal.

The availability of pharmacies and medication delivery services is also crucial. Easy access to medications is essential for managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" considers the proximity of pharmacies and the availability of home delivery services.

The "Hypertension Score" is a comprehensive assessment that goes beyond simple drive times. It considers the interplay of various factors, including personal vehicle availability, public transit options, ride-sharing services, medical transportation, telehealth, pharmacy access, and weather conditions.

The "Hypertension Score" should be a tool for prospective residents and current residents alike. It helps navigate the complexities of healthcare access in Hazlehurst, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a judgment on the quality of healthcare in Hazlehurst. It is a reflection of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing that care. It is a call to action for community leaders, healthcare providers, and transportation planners to collaborate on improving healthcare access for all residents.

The "Hypertension Score" is a reminder that healthcare access is a fundamental right. It is a tool to ensure that all residents of Hazlehurst, regardless of their transportation limitations, can receive the care they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

The "Hypertension Score" is a starting point for a conversation about healthcare access in Hazlehurst. It is a call to action to improve the lives of all residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.