39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.11 percent of residents in 39406 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Forrest General Hospital with a distance of 1.81 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hattiesburg's 39406

The quest for optimal healthcare, especially when managing chronic conditions like hypertension, extends beyond the doctor's office. It encompasses the often-overlooked hurdle of transportation. In the heart of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, within the 39406 ZIP code, assessing healthcare access requires a deep dive into the available transportation options. This write-up analyzes the landscape, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment for residents, particularly those considering moving to Hattiesburg, focusing on commute times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport.

The 39406 area, encompassing a significant portion of Hattiesburg, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the city boasts a relatively compact footprint, access to specialized medical care and preventative services can be hampered by limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles. The "Hypertension Score" considers the ease of accessing essential healthcare, factoring in the time, cost, and accessibility of available modes of transportation.

**Driving the Healthcare Highway:**

For many residents, the primary mode of transportation remains the personal vehicle. Navigating to healthcare facilities in 39406 often involves traversing key roadways. Heading south on US-49, the primary artery, provides direct access to Forrest General Hospital, a major healthcare provider. The drive, typically taking under 10 minutes from most points within the ZIP code, is generally straightforward. However, peak traffic hours can significantly extend commute times, especially during school drop-off and pick-up.

Alternatively, those residing in the western portions of 39406 might opt for a route via I-59, providing a faster connection to healthcare facilities located further afield. This route offers a more direct path, but it also introduces the possibility of encountering traffic congestion and potential delays. The drive to facilities located near the Interstate, such as specialty clinics, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific destination and traffic conditions.

Local roads like Hardy Street and 28th Avenue offer alternative routes, particularly for shorter trips to clinics and pharmacies. These roads, while convenient for local errands, may not always be the most efficient option for accessing larger medical centers. Understanding these driving routes and potential traffic bottlenecks is crucial for managing appointments and minimizing stress, a critical factor in managing hypertension.

**Public Transit: A Limited Compass:**

The public transit system in Hattiesburg, while available, presents limitations for those reliant on it. The Hattiesburg Area Rapid Transit (HART) system operates a limited network of bus routes. While the routes cover portions of the 39406 ZIP code, the frequency of service and the geographic reach are restricted. Many areas within the ZIP code lack direct access to a bus route, necessitating a walk to a bus stop.

For individuals with hypertension, prolonged walking, especially in the Mississippi heat, can pose a challenge. Furthermore, the HART system's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, while present, may not always be ideal for individuals with mobility limitations. The limited number of wheelchair-accessible buses and the potential for crowded conditions can create difficulties. The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the need for enhanced public transit to provide consistent and reliable healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle. These services can be readily available in Hattiesburg, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits. The "Hypertension Score" considers the economic burden of ride-sharing, acknowledging that the expense can be a barrier for some residents.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and may include assistance with mobility. However, medical transport services can be costly, and availability might be limited. The "Hypertension Score" recognizes the value of these services for individuals with specific needs, while also highlighting the financial implications.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Equation:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 39406 reflects the complex interplay of transportation options and healthcare access. While the availability of medical facilities is generally good, the ability to reach those facilities efficiently and affordably is crucial. The score considers factors such as commute times, public transit accessibility, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport.

For individuals considering moving to Hattiesburg, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. The proximity of healthcare facilities is not the only factor. The ease of accessing those facilities, considering the available transportation options, is a critical element. The "Hypertension Score" aims to provide a comprehensive assessment, helping residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The "Hypertension Score" in Action:**

The "Hypertension Score" assessment for 39406 would ideally incorporate a numerical rating system, taking into account the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Key Healthcare Facilities:** This would include the average drive time during peak and off-peak hours to major hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** This would assess the proximity of bus routes to residential areas, the frequency of service, and the availability of ADA-compliant features.
* **Ride-Sharing Cost and Availability:** This would analyze the average cost of ride-sharing trips to healthcare facilities and the typical wait times.
* **Medical Transport Options:** This would evaluate the availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **Neighborhood-Specific Considerations:** The score would be tailored to specific areas within the 39406 ZIP code, recognizing that transportation access can vary.

By assigning numerical values to these factors, a composite "Hypertension Score" can be generated, providing a clear indication of the ease of accessing healthcare in the area. This score can be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

**Moving to Hattiesburg: A Transportation Perspective:**

For those contemplating a move to Hattiesburg, the "Hypertension Score" provides a critical lens for evaluating healthcare access. The score highlights the importance of considering transportation options when choosing a location. Proximity to healthcare facilities is essential, but the ability to reach those facilities efficiently and affordably is equally important.

The 39406 ZIP code offers a range of housing options, but transportation considerations should be integrated into the decision-making process. For individuals with hypertension, selecting a location with convenient access to healthcare and reliable transportation is a priority. This might involve choosing a residence near a bus route, within easy driving distance of healthcare facilities, or in an area where ride-sharing services are readily available.

The "Hypertension Score" is not merely a metric; it is a call to action. It emphasizes the need for improved public transit, affordable ride-sharing options, and accessible medical transport services. By prioritizing transportation, Hattiesburg can enhance healthcare access for all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The goal is to create a community where healthcare is accessible, efficient, and stress-free, supporting the overall well-being of its residents.