39150, Port Gibson, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39150, Port Gibson, Mississippi is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.04 percent of residents in 39150 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Claiborne County Hospital with a distance of 0.34 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Port Gibson, MS (ZIP Code 39150)

For individuals considering a move to Port Gibson, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39150), understanding healthcare access, particularly for conditions like hypertension, is paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape influencing healthcare access, providing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for informed decision-making.

The “Hypertension Score” isn't a numerical value but a descriptive assessment. It considers the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare, specifically for those managing hypertension, a chronic condition requiring regular monitoring and potential medication adjustments. This analysis will help prospective residents understand the realities of healthcare accessibility in their new community.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Port Gibson's healthcare access heavily relies on personal vehicles. The primary route to healthcare facilities in surrounding areas is via US-61, the major north-south artery. Traveling north on US-61, residents can reach Claiborne County Hospital, a critical local resource, within approximately five to ten minutes, depending on traffic. This accessibility is a significant advantage for immediate medical needs.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Vicksburg, approximately 30 miles north. The journey to Vicksburg via US-61 typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city. This drive time increases the potential for complications during medical emergencies, necessitating careful planning for routine appointments and urgent care needs.

Alternatively, residents might consider traveling south on US-61 towards Natchez. While offering different healthcare options, this journey is also about an hour, presenting similar considerations regarding distance and travel time. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact drive times and safety.

Secondary roads like MS-18 and MS-547 offer alternative routes, but they are generally less direct and may be in poorer condition, potentially increasing travel time and risk. The condition of these roads is a factor in transportation considerations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Port Gibson and the surrounding areas are limited. There is no readily available public bus system or fixed-route transit within the immediate ZIP code. This lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, or those who cannot afford or maintain a car.

The absence of public transit creates a barrier to healthcare access, potentially delaying or preventing regular medical appointments and medication refills. This situation necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, which can be less reliable and more expensive. The lack of transportation options for those moving to Port Gibson is a significant consideration.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible features on any potential public transit are non-existent in this area.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have limited availability in Port Gibson and the surrounding rural areas. While they may occasionally be available, their reliability and affordability are questionable. The limited presence of ride-sharing services makes it difficult to rely on them for routine healthcare appointments or urgent medical needs. This impacts healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available for emergencies. However, these services are primarily for critical situations and are not designed for routine transportation to doctor's appointments. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, placing an additional financial burden on individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension.

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services may be available through insurance providers or private companies. These services typically require pre-booking and may have limited availability, especially for residents in rural areas. The reliability of NEMT services is crucial for those managing hypertension, as missing appointments can have serious health consequences.

**Healthcare Facilities: The Local Landscape**

Claiborne County Hospital, located in Port Gibson, is a crucial healthcare resource. It provides emergency services, primary care, and some specialty services. The proximity of the hospital is a significant advantage for residents, offering immediate access to medical care.

However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel to Vicksburg or Natchez. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options. The availability of specialists and the quality of care offered in these larger cities are essential factors in the overall healthcare access assessment.

**Hypertension Score: A Qualitative Assessment**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 39150 is moderate. The proximity of Claiborne County Hospital provides a crucial safety net. However, the limited public transit, unreliable ride-sharing services, and the need to travel to Vicksburg or Natchez for specialized care present significant challenges.

Individuals managing hypertension must carefully consider these factors when making healthcare decisions. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are essential for managing hypertension. The availability and accessibility of healthcare services directly impact the ability to effectively manage this chronic condition.

The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access underscores the importance of car ownership and maintenance. For those without vehicles, the lack of reliable transportation options creates a significant barrier to healthcare access. This situation necessitates careful planning, reliance on family and friends, or exploring the limited availability of NEMT services.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

Prospective residents with hypertension should thoroughly research healthcare providers in the area, including their appointment availability, acceptance of insurance, and accessibility. They should also assess their transportation options and develop a plan for accessing healthcare services.

Connecting with local community resources, such as senior centers or social service agencies, can provide valuable information about transportation assistance programs and other support services. Building a strong support network of family and friends can also be crucial for accessing healthcare.

The healthcare access landscape in Port Gibson presents both opportunities and challenges. While the proximity of Claiborne County Hospital is a significant advantage, the limited transportation options require careful planning and consideration. Individuals with hypertension must proactively address these challenges to ensure they can effectively manage their condition and maintain their health. This is a critical factor when considering moving to Port Gibson.