39183, Vicksburg, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39183, Vicksburg, Mississippi is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.47 percent of residents in 39183 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health River Region with a distance of 1.07 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Vicksburg's 39183

Considering a move to Vicksburg, Mississippi, and specifically the 39183 ZIP code? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" focusing on transportation options and healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. This score reflects the ease and efficiency of reaching medical appointments, a crucial factor for effective disease management. The lower the score, the better the access. We'll examine the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and assess their impact on healthcare accessibility.

The 39183 ZIP code, encompassing much of Vicksburg's eastern and southern areas, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding transportation. Its suburban and rural characteristics mean that personal vehicles are often the primary mode of transport. However, understanding the alternatives is vital, especially for those with mobility limitations or without access to a car.

**The Highways and Roads: A Driving Perspective**

The backbone of transportation in 39183 is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. Interstate 20 (I-20) serves as the major east-west artery, providing relatively quick access to healthcare facilities. For residents in the southern portion of the ZIP code, traveling north on Halls Ferry Road and then east on I-20 offers a direct route to many medical centers. The drive from the furthest reaches of 39183 to the Merit Health River Region Hospital, for example, can take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Highway 61 South, a major north-south route, also offers access to healthcare. While not as direct as I-20 for some, it provides alternative routes and connects to various local roads. The condition of these roads, including the presence of potholes and uneven surfaces, can affect the comfort and safety of the journey, particularly for individuals with hypertension.

Other critical roads include Pemberton Square Boulevard, which provides access to shopping and services, and Clay Street, a vital thoroughfare connecting residential areas to downtown Vicksburg. The drive times on these roads are generally shorter, but traffic congestion during peak hours can impact travel times.

**Public Transit: Limited but Available**

The Vicksburg Transit System (VTS) offers limited public transportation options within the city. The system operates a fixed-route bus service, but the coverage in 39183 is not extensive. Bus routes, particularly those serving areas closer to downtown, may offer some connectivity to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of buses and the limited route coverage can pose challenges.

Accessibility is a key consideration. The VTS strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), providing accessible buses with ramps or lifts. However, the need for transfers and the potential for longer travel times can be problematic for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent medical appointments and prefer efficient transportation. Checking the VTS website for updated route maps, schedules, and ADA features is crucial.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in Vicksburg. They offer a more flexible transportation option than public transit, allowing for door-to-door service. However, availability and pricing can vary, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited ride-share activity. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring stretcher transport. They provide a valuable option for individuals with hypertension who may not be able to drive or use public transit. Researching local medical transportation providers and their services is highly recommended.

**Healthcare Access: The Destination**

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to assess healthcare access. The primary healthcare facility in Vicksburg is Merit Health River Region Hospital. This hospital offers a range of services, including cardiology, which is critical for hypertension management. The hospital's location, accessible via I-20, makes it a central point of healthcare access for many residents of 39183.

Other healthcare providers, including clinics and specialist offices, are also located in Vicksburg. The proximity of these facilities to transportation routes is a key factor in determining healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension should consider the location of their primary care physician, cardiologists, and other specialists when evaluating transportation options.

**Calculating the Hypertension Score**

The Hypertension Score considers several factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average time to reach the nearest hospital or clinic by car.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability and frequency of public transit routes serving the area.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Road Conditions:** The quality and safety of the roads.

A lower score indicates better access to healthcare. The score is subjective and should be personalized based on individual needs and circumstances. For example, an individual who cannot drive will weigh public transit and medical transportation options more heavily.

**Moving to Vicksburg: Making an Informed Decision**

For individuals considering a move to Vicksburg, particularly those managing hypertension, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While the 39183 ZIP code offers a relatively accessible location, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration.

Prospective residents should:

* Assess their transportation needs and abilities.
* Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* Familiarize themselves with the VTS routes and schedules.
* Consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to their potential residence.
* Factor in the potential impact of road conditions on travel comfort and safety.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make an informed decision about moving to Vicksburg and ensure they have access to the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension effectively. The goal is to create a transportation plan that minimizes stress and maximizes the ease of reaching medical appointments, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes.