39175, Utica, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39175, Utica, Mississippi is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.94 percent of residents in 39175 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Central with a distance of 23.23 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Utica, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39175)

Utica, Mississippi, a small community nestled in the heart of Hinds County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 39175, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This is crucial because timely access to care directly impacts blood pressure management and overall health outcomes. For anyone contemplating moving to Utica, understanding these transportation realities is paramount.

The core of this assessment revolves around the practicalities of getting from home to a doctor's appointment, a pharmacy, or a specialist. The ability to navigate the transportation infrastructure, whether by personal vehicle, public transit, or other means, is a critical determinant of healthcare access. The further a patient must travel, the greater the potential for missed appointments, delayed treatments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in Utica is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town itself is small, but the nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in nearby communities like Jackson and Clinton. The journey to these facilities is primarily dependent on the state highways and local roads.

Traveling to Jackson, the most likely destination for specialized care, involves a drive along **Highway 18** east. The distance is roughly 30 miles, and under ideal traffic conditions, the drive time is approximately 45 to 60 minutes. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend this commute. Another option is to use **Highway 49** to get to Jackson.

Accessing healthcare in Clinton, a smaller city west of Utica, is slightly closer, requiring a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic. This route typically involves using **Highway 18** west and then connecting to other local roads.

The condition of these roadways, including potential potholes, uneven surfaces, and the absence of sidewalks in some areas, can pose challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those reliant on public transit. The availability of well-maintained roads is a key factor in determining the feasibility of transportation.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Utica and the surrounding areas are limited. Hinds County does not have a comprehensive public transit system that extends to Utica. The absence of readily available public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with private transportation.

While there are no fixed-route buses serving Utica, it is worth investigating the availability of demand-response transportation services. These services, often operated by non-profit organizations or government agencies, provide door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities or those who are unable to use traditional public transit. It is essential to inquire with local health and social service agencies to determine if such options are available and to understand the eligibility requirements and associated costs.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jackson metropolitan area and may extend to Utica, although their availability and reliability can vary. The cost of using ride-sharing services can be a significant barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes. The availability of ride-sharing services in Utica should be verified, as their coverage can fluctuate.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another potential option. These services, often operated by private companies or healthcare providers, offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Researching the availability of medical transportation services in the area is crucial.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Utica, based on these transportation factors, is moderately challenging. While the drive times to healthcare facilities in Jackson and Clinton are manageable for many, the lack of robust public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation pose significant barriers for some residents.

Furthermore, the availability of local healthcare providers within Utica itself is limited. This necessitates travel to other communities for primary care, specialist appointments, and pharmacy services. The distance and transportation challenges increase the likelihood of missed appointments, delayed treatments, and medication non-adherence.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

To improve the "Hypertension Score" and enhance healthcare access in Utica, several strategies are recommended. These include:

* **Advocating for Improved Public Transit:** Supporting initiatives to expand public transportation options, including fixed-route buses or demand-response services, would significantly benefit residents without personal vehicles.
* **Promoting Ride-Share Partnerships:** Encouraging partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for patients.
* **Facilitating Medical Transportation:** Identifying and promoting medical transportation services to ensure that patients have access to reliable and affordable transportation to appointments.
* **Supporting Telehealth Initiatives:** Promoting telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management.
* **Enhancing Local Healthcare Services:** Attracting more healthcare providers to establish practices in Utica to reduce the need for travel to other communities.

**Conclusion:**

For those considering moving to Utica, Mississippi, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. While the drive times to nearby healthcare facilities are manageable for those with personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation present significant challenges for some residents, especially those managing hypertension. By proactively addressing these transportation barriers, the community can improve the "Hypertension Score" and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need to live healthy lives.