39367, Waynesboro, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39367, Waynesboro, Mississippi is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.97 percent of residents in 39367 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne General Hospital with a distance of 1.30 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Waynesboro, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39367)

Considering a move to Waynesboro, Mississippi (ZIP code 39367)? This analysis delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities related to managing hypertension. We'll explore the transportation landscape, examining drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care. This is crucial for anyone managing high blood pressure, a condition requiring regular check-ups and medication.

Waynesboro, a charming town nestled in the heart of Wayne County, offers a slower pace of life, but healthcare access can present unique hurdles. The geography, characterized by rural roads and limited public transportation, significantly impacts the ability to reach healthcare providers. This is particularly important for individuals with hypertension, who require consistent monitoring and timely interventions to maintain their health.

**Drive Times and Road Networks: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Waynesboro are US Highway 84 and Mississippi Highway 63. These roadways are essential for reaching larger medical facilities and specialists located in neighboring cities. The drive to Hattiesburg, approximately 70 miles west, via US-84, will likely take around one hour and fifteen minutes to one hour and forty-five minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey is crucial for accessing Hattiesburg Clinic and Forrest General Hospital, offering specialized care not readily available in Waynesboro.

Heading south on MS-63, a drive to Lucedale, approximately 45 miles, takes about an hour. This route may be necessary for accessing certain specialists or medical services. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can impact travel times and potentially delay access to critical care.

Within Waynesboro, local roads like Church Street, Wayne Street, and Azalea Drive provide access to local clinics and pharmacies. However, the limited number of healthcare providers within the town necessitates travel outside the immediate area for comprehensive care, making transportation a central concern.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Gaps**

Public transportation options are extremely limited in Waynesboro and the surrounding areas. Wayne County does not currently operate a public bus system or fixed-route transportation services. This lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or who cannot drive.

The absence of public transit exacerbates the challenges for managing hypertension. Regular doctor visits, medication refills, and access to specialized care become significantly more difficult, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes. The lack of ADA-accessible transportation further compounds the problem for individuals with disabilities.

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

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Waynesboro is limited. While these services may be sporadically available, relying on them for regular medical appointments is not practical. The unpredictable availability and potentially high costs of ride-sharing pose a significant challenge for individuals managing hypertension.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking. This reliance on medical transport adds another layer of complexity and expense to healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Assessment**

The primary healthcare provider in Waynesboro is Wayne General Hospital, offering a range of services, including primary care and emergency care. However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel to Hattiesburg or other larger cities. This need for travel underscores the importance of reliable transportation.

The availability of pharmacies within Waynesboro is crucial for obtaining prescribed medications. However, the distance to specialists and the lack of public transportation highlight the challenges of managing a chronic condition like hypertension. The ability to consistently attend appointments and refill prescriptions is vital for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications.

**The Hypertension Score: A Measure of Accessibility**

Given the factors above, we can assign a preliminary "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP code 39367. This score reflects the ease with which individuals with hypertension can access necessary healthcare services.

* **Drive Time:** Moderate, with longer travel times to access specialized care.
* **Public Transportation:** Severely Limited, creating a significant barrier.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Limited availability, unreliable for regular use.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but expensive and requires advance planning.
* **Healthcare Provider Density:** Low, necessitating travel for specialized care.

**Overall Score:** Based on these factors, the Hypertension Score for Waynesboro (39367) is **Moderate to Challenging**. This indicates that managing hypertension in this area requires careful planning and potentially relies on private transportation. The lack of public transit and limited ride-sharing options pose a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations.

**Moving to Waynesboro: Considerations for Hypertension Management**

For individuals considering a move to Waynesboro with hypertension, careful planning is essential. Before relocating, it is crucial to assess the availability of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and transportation options. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in the area and understanding the process for accessing specialized care is vital.

Individuals should also consider the potential costs associated with transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and the use of medical transport services. Exploring options for assistance with transportation, such as local volunteer programs or community support networks, is also recommended.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The transportation landscape in Waynesboro, Mississippi, presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. While the town offers a slower pace of life, the limited public transportation and reliance on private vehicles or medical transport necessitate careful planning to ensure consistent access to healthcare. Understanding these factors is essential for making informed decisions about relocating to Waynesboro and effectively managing hypertension. Prioritizing healthcare access, whether through personal vehicles, carpooling, or exploring medical transportation options, is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being in this charming Mississippi town.