The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39095, Lexington, Mississippi is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
41.69 percent of residents in 39095 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holmes County Hospital And Clinics with a distance of 4.18 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 39095, Lexington, Mississippi
Hypertension Score | 2 |
---|---|
People Score | 8 |
Provider Score | 23 |
Hospital Score | 13 |
Travel Score | 38 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 39095 | Lexington | Mississippi |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.75 | 2.75 | 2.14 |
1 Car | 21.82 | 21.82 | 19.38 |
2 Cars | 37.48 | 37.48 | 39.26 |
3 or More Cars | 37.95 | 37.95 | 39.21 |
Vehicular Access in 39095, Lexington, Mississippi
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lexington, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39095)
Moving to Lexington, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39095) presents a unique set of considerations, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the accessibility of healthcare resources within the area, specifically focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for residents. Our aim is to provide a "Hypertension Score" – a subjective assessment of the ease with which residents can reach vital medical appointments, considering the challenges posed by distance, transportation limitations, and the specific needs of individuals managing high blood pressure.
The cornerstone of managing hypertension is consistent access to medical care. This includes regular check-ups, medication refills, and potentially specialized treatments. The ability to reach these services reliably is paramount. In Lexington, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The geographic layout of the town and surrounding areas significantly influences the time and effort required to access healthcare.
The heart of Lexington, where many residents reside, is relatively compact. However, healthcare facilities are often dispersed, necessitating travel. Main Street, the central artery, offers access to local businesses, but direct routes to medical providers may involve navigating side streets and residential areas. The primary highway serving the area is Mississippi Highway 12, which connects Lexington to larger cities like Jackson and Kosciusko.
Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The nearest major hospital, Baptist Medical Center – Attala, is located in Kosciusko, approximately 20 miles east of Lexington. Driving time via Highway 12 typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey, while manageable, requires planning, especially for individuals who may experience health-related fatigue or mobility limitations.
Specialist care may necessitate travel to Jackson, roughly 70 miles south via Interstate 55. The drive time to Jackson can be significant, often exceeding an hour, which presents a considerable barrier to care for those requiring frequent appointments. This longer commute adds to the overall "Hypertension Score" burden, as it increases the potential for stress, fatigue, and missed appointments.
Public transportation options in Lexington are limited. There is no established public bus system within the town or county. This lack of public transportation disproportionately affects individuals who do not own vehicles, those with mobility impairments, or those who are unable to drive due to health conditions. The absence of a reliable public transit system significantly lowers the "Hypertension Score" for these residents, as it drastically reduces their access to healthcare.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lexington area, but their availability can be inconsistent. Demand often fluctuates, and wait times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing services can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent medical transportation. This variable availability and cost further contribute to a lower "Hypertension Score" for those relying on ride-sharing.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are available in the region. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services provide transportation for individuals requiring assistance to and from medical appointments, including those who use wheelchairs or have other mobility challenges. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive. The availability of these services is a positive factor, but the cost and scheduling constraints still influence the overall "Hypertension Score."
The infrastructure within Lexington, including the condition of roads and sidewalks, also plays a role. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and a lack of accessible pedestrian routes can make it challenging for individuals with mobility issues to reach healthcare facilities. The presence of these barriers further reduces the "Hypertension Score" for residents with mobility impairments.
The availability of telehealth services can partially mitigate the transportation challenges. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth is not a complete solution, as it may not be suitable for all types of appointments or for patients who lack reliable internet access or technological literacy. The availability of telehealth options does improve the "Hypertension Score," but its impact is limited by these constraints.
The "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP Code 39095 is influenced by a combination of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation all contribute to a lower score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, those without vehicles, and those with limited financial resources. The distance to major healthcare facilities and the potential for long commutes to specialist care further exacerbate the challenges.
For individuals considering moving to Lexington, Mississippi, or for current residents managing hypertension, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. Understanding the limitations of available transportation options and exploring alternative solutions, such as telehealth, can help improve healthcare access and support effective hypertension management. While the presence of medical transportation services and the potential for telehealth consultations offer some relief, the overall "Hypertension Score" remains a challenge in this area. Careful planning and proactive strategies are essential to ensure consistent and reliable access to the healthcare services needed to manage high blood pressure effectively.
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