39354, Preston, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39354, Preston, Mississippi is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.32 percent of residents in 39354 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Stennis Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.61 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Preston, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39354)

Preston, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Kemper County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" analysis, delves into the complexities of transportation and its impact on residents managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent medical attention and medication. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals living with, or at risk of, hypertension in ZIP code 39354, particularly those considering moving to Preston.

The "Hypertension Score" considers factors like drive times to medical facilities, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. These elements are crucial in determining the ease with which residents can obtain necessary healthcare, especially for a chronic condition like hypertension, which necessitates regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist appointments.

The primary concern for Preston residents is the relative scarcity of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity. The closest major medical facilities are located in Meridian, approximately 30 to 45 miles away, depending on the specific destination. This distance translates to significant travel times, particularly for those relying on personal vehicles.

The most direct route to Meridian from Preston is via Mississippi Highway 16 (MS-16) and then US Highway 45 (US-45). The journey on MS-16 is predominantly rural, with limited services along the way. US-45, a major thoroughfare, offers a smoother, albeit still lengthy, commute. Traffic, especially during peak hours, can add to the travel time.

Alternative routes involve utilizing smaller county roads, which can offer scenic drives but often involve slower speeds and potentially less well-maintained surfaces. These routes, while perhaps avoiding some traffic on US-45, can add significantly to the overall travel time and may be less desirable for individuals with mobility issues or those seeking rapid access to medical care.

Public transportation options in Preston are extremely limited. Kemper County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This absence creates a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. This lack of public transportation is a major factor in the "Hypertension Score" calculation.

The absence of a robust public transit system forces residents to rely on alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Meridian but their presence in Preston is sporadic and unreliable. The availability of ride-sharing services is often dependent on driver availability and demand, which can be unpredictable in a rural area. This uncertainty poses a challenge for individuals needing scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer a more reliable solution. These services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available but often come with higher costs. The cost of medical transport can be a significant burden, especially for those on fixed incomes or with limited insurance coverage.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of available transportation options. Without a public bus system, individuals with disabilities face considerable challenges. Ride-sharing services and medical transport providers are generally required to offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but their availability and reliability remain key concerns.

The lack of readily available healthcare within Preston itself necessitates a reliance on transportation to access medical care. This reliance significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." The time spent traveling, the potential costs of transportation, and the limited availability of options all contribute to a lower score, reflecting the challenges faced by residents managing hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Preston, the "Hypertension Score" serves as a crucial indicator of healthcare access. The remoteness of the area and the limited transportation options require careful consideration. Potential residents should assess their ability to travel to Meridian regularly, factoring in the costs, time commitment, and potential challenges of relying on personal vehicles or less-reliable alternatives.

The "Hypertension Score" is not solely determined by the distance to healthcare facilities. It also considers the availability of support systems, such as family, friends, and community resources. Individuals with strong support networks may find it easier to navigate the transportation challenges. However, the inherent limitations of transportation options in Preston remain a significant factor.

The availability of telehealth services can mitigate some of the challenges associated with healthcare access. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. However, telehealth is not a complete solution, as it cannot replace the need for physical examinations, diagnostic tests, and certain medical procedures.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the presence of pharmacies in Preston. Access to medication is critical for managing hypertension. The availability of local pharmacies, or the proximity to pharmacies in nearby towns, is a crucial factor in the score. The ability to easily obtain medication refills is essential for maintaining consistent treatment.

The "Hypertension Score" is a dynamic metric, influenced by factors such as the availability of new healthcare providers, the expansion of telehealth services, and the potential for future improvements in transportation infrastructure. The score provides a snapshot of the current situation, highlighting the need for improvements in healthcare access for residents of Preston, Mississippi.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 39354 reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access in Preston. The distance to medical facilities, the limited public transportation, the reliance on less-reliable ride-sharing options, and the potential costs of medical transport all contribute to a lower score. Individuals considering moving to Preston should carefully evaluate their ability to navigate these transportation challenges and access the healthcare they need to effectively manage their hypertension. This assessment is crucial for ensuring their health and well-being within the community.