39342, Marion, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39342, Marion, Mississippi is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

90.66 percent of residents in 39342 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical Foundation Inc with a distance of 5.03 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Marion, MS (ZIP Code 39342)

Considering a move to Marion, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39342)? This assessment explores the accessibility of healthcare, specifically for individuals managing hypertension, a chronic condition demanding consistent medical attention. Understanding the **transportation** landscape is crucial for ensuring timely and reliable **healthcare access**, particularly when regular appointments and potential emergencies are factored in. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" by evaluating the available options for reaching healthcare facilities from various points within the ZIP code.

Marion, a charming town nestled in Lauderdale County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare accessibility. The rural nature of the area significantly impacts **transportation** choices, influencing the overall "Hypertension Score." This score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can access necessary medical services, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Marion residents is personal vehicles. The efficiency of this system hinges on the condition of roadways and the distances to medical facilities. The main thoroughfare through Marion is US Highway 45, a vital north-south artery. Traveling south on US-45 offers direct access to Meridian, the county seat and the primary hub for healthcare services.

The drive to major healthcare providers in Meridian, such as Rush Health Systems, typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. This is a relatively manageable timeframe for routine appointments and non-emergency situations. However, the distance can become a significant factor during emergencies, potentially impacting the "Hypertension Score" negatively.

Other roads, such as MS-19 and various county roads, provide alternative routes, but they often involve longer travel times and may be less well-maintained. These routes become relevant for those living in more remote areas of the ZIP code. The overall reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle maintenance and the potential challenges faced by individuals without access to a car.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Marion are extremely limited. The Lauderdale County Transit System (LCTS) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed for healthcare access. These services may not run on weekends or evenings, which can be a significant barrier for individuals needing to attend appointments outside of regular business hours.

The LCTS operates on a demand-response basis, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This can create logistical hurdles for individuals with unpredictable health needs or those requiring immediate medical attention. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. The LCTS website provides information about ADA compliance, but specific details about the availability of such vehicles on all routes should be confirmed. This limited public **transportation** significantly lowers the "Hypertension Score" for those who cannot drive or do not own a car.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Meridian area, but their presence in Marion itself is less certain. Availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. This unreliability poses a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, who may need to access healthcare at any time.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedStar and other specialized providers, offer a more reliable option for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services typically provide door-to-door transport, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. However, they often come with higher costs and require advance booking, which may not be feasible in emergency situations. The availability and cost of these services directly influence the "Hypertension Score."

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Marion, MS (39342) is moderately impacted by the challenges of **transportation**. While drive times to Meridian are relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services present significant barriers for some residents.

The availability of healthcare providers within the ZIP code itself is also a critical factor. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies within Marion reduces the need for frequent trips to Meridian. However, the scope of available services may be limited, necessitating travel for specialized care.

**Moving to Marion:**

For individuals considering **moving to Marion** with hypertension, a careful assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. Those who can drive and have reliable vehicles will likely find healthcare access manageable. However, individuals without access to a car should carefully investigate the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities within Marion or Meridian can significantly improve the "Hypertension Score." Researching the availability of pharmacies, specialists, and emergency services within the area is crucial. Establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and understanding their appointment scheduling processes can also enhance healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Marion, MS (39342) reflects a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. The relatively short drive times to Meridian are a positive factor. However, the limited public transit, the uncertain availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles create potential barriers to **healthcare access** for some residents. Individuals considering **moving to Marion** should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and proactively plan for their healthcare requirements to ensure effective management of their hypertension. The overall "Hypertension Score" can be improved by leveraging available resources, building relationships with healthcare providers, and advocating for improved **transportation** options within the community.