39092, Lake, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39092, Lake, Mississippi is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.23 percent of residents in 39092 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is S E Lackey Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 39092

ZIP Code 39092, encompassing the charming town of Lake, Mississippi, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. Assessing "healthcare access" within this area requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options, a critical factor influencing the "Hypertension Score" and the ability to effectively manage this chronic condition. For individuals considering "moving to Lake," this analysis offers invaluable insight into the realities of accessing vital medical services.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal metric, but rather a composite evaluation of factors impacting a hypertensive individual's ability to receive timely and consistent care. This includes the ease of reaching medical appointments, the availability of specialized services, and the overall burden of "transportation" on their health and well-being. In 39092, the score is significantly influenced by the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles.

The primary arteries for "transportation" in and out of Lake are Mississippi Highway 15 and Mississippi Highway 80. Highway 15 offers a north-south route, connecting Lake to larger towns like Forest to the south and Philadelphia to the north. Highway 80 provides an east-west corridor, linking Lake to Jackson, the state capital, approximately 60 miles west. The drive to Jackson, home to major hospitals and specialists, can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

For individuals without personal vehicles, the journey becomes considerably more challenging. Public "transportation" options are scarce. The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) does not operate a fixed-route bus system in this area. While demand-response services may exist through local agencies, their availability and accessibility for regular medical appointments are often limited. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," potentially increasing the risk of missed appointments and inadequate care.

The absence of robust public "transportation" necessitates reliance on alternative modes. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, while present in larger cities, may have limited availability in Lake. Their presence is contingent on driver density and demand, making them unreliable for routine medical needs. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly become prohibitive, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical "transportation" services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a potential solution for individuals unable to drive or utilize other forms of "transportation." Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers may offer NEMT services, but availability and insurance coverage vary. These services typically require advance booking and may not be readily accessible for urgent needs. The reliance on these specialized services can add complexity and potential delays to healthcare access, impacting the "Hypertension Score."

The drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial component of the "Hypertension Score." The nearest primary care physicians are likely located in Lake itself or in nearby towns like Forest. However, access to specialists, such as cardiologists, nephrologists, and endocrinologists, often necessitates travel to Jackson or Meridian, further increasing drive times and associated stress. The longer the travel time, the greater the potential for missed appointments, medication non-adherence, and increased health risks.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of available "transportation" options is a critical consideration. While ride-sharing services and medical "transportation" providers are expected to offer accessible vehicles, their availability may be limited. The lack of accessible public "transportation" options poses a significant barrier for individuals with mobility limitations, further reducing their "healthcare access" and negatively impacting the "Hypertension Score."

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the availability of pharmacies and the ease of medication refills. Lake likely has local pharmacies, but the availability of specific medications and the ability to quickly refill prescriptions can be a concern. The need to travel to larger cities for specialized medications or refills further complicates healthcare management. This factor is especially important for hypertensive individuals who require consistent medication adherence.

For those "moving to Lake," the "Hypertension Score" serves as a crucial indicator of the healthcare landscape. It highlights the importance of planning and preparation. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers, assess their "transportation" needs, and explore options for accessing medical services. This proactive approach can significantly improve their ability to manage hypertension and maintain their health.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static measure. It can fluctuate based on individual circumstances, the availability of new services, and changes in the healthcare system. The ongoing development of telehealth and remote monitoring technologies offers the potential to improve "healthcare access" in rural areas like Lake. However, the digital divide and the need for reliable internet access remain significant challenges.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP Code 39092 reflects the challenges of "healthcare access" in a rural environment. The limited public "transportation," reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long drive times to specialists create significant hurdles for individuals managing hypertension. While options like ride-sharing and medical "transportation" exist, their availability and cost can be barriers. For those considering "moving to Lake," a thorough assessment of "transportation" needs and healthcare resources is essential for effective hypertension management and overall well-being. The ability to navigate these challenges is paramount to maintaining a good "Hypertension Score" and a healthy life in the charming town of Lake.