39421, Bassfield, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39421, Bassfield, Mississippi is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.57 percent of residents in 39421 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Marion General Hospital with a distance of 9.27 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in Bassfield, MS (ZIP Code 39421)

Bassfield, Mississippi, a town nestled in the heart of Jefferson Davis County, offers a slower pace of life, a close-knit community, and the allure of rural living. However, for individuals managing hypertension, the accessibility of healthcare services is a critical factor. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options available to residents of ZIP code 39421, specifically focusing on their impact on healthcare access and, consequently, the management of hypertension. Understanding these transportation limitations is paramount for anyone considering moving to Bassfield, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions.

The core of this analysis revolves around the concept of a “Hypertension Score.” This score, though not a formal medical instrument, serves as a metric to assess the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services related to hypertension management. Factors considered include drive times to medical facilities, availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. The higher the score, the more accessible healthcare is deemed to be, potentially leading to better outcomes for those managing hypertension.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Transportation Arteries**

For residents of Bassfield, the automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are Mississippi Highway 42 and Mississippi Highway 13. Highway 42, a key east-west artery, connects Bassfield to larger towns like Prentiss and Collins, where healthcare facilities are located. Highway 13, running north-south, provides access to larger regional centers.

Driving to the nearest primary care physician or specialist for hypertension management is a crucial element in the Hypertension Score. The drive to Prentiss, approximately 10 miles east on Highway 42, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive time is generally manageable, providing relatively quick access to medical appointments and follow-up care. However, the quality of the roads, especially after inclement weather, can impact this drive time.

Accessing more specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, often necessitates travel to larger cities like Hattiesburg, located approximately 45 miles south via Highway 13 and US-98. This journey can take upwards of an hour, placing a greater burden on individuals with hypertension, especially those experiencing acute symptoms. The longer travel time can lead to delays in receiving critical care.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Bassfield and the surrounding area are extremely limited. Jefferson Davis County does not have a formal public bus system. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, as it restricts access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While the lack of a formal bus system is a major barrier, there may be limited options for transportation through local organizations or non-profits. These options may include services for the elderly or disabled, but they are often subject to specific eligibility requirements and may not be readily available for all residents. The absence of reliable public transit further complicates healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or are unable to afford the cost of private transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, though present in larger cities, are unlikely to be readily available in Bassfield. The sparse population density and limited demand make it economically unviable for these services to operate consistently in this area. This lack of ride-sharing options significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, as it removes a potential transportation alternative for those without personal vehicles.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the area. However, these services are primarily designed for emergencies or individuals with specific medical needs. NEMT services, often provided by companies like Rural Transportation or local ambulance services, may be available for scheduled medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, placing an additional financial strain on individuals managing hypertension.

**The Impact on the Hypertension Score**

Considering the limited transportation options, the Hypertension Score for Bassfield, MS (39421) is moderately impacted. While access to primary care physicians in nearby towns is relatively convenient, the lack of public transportation, ride-sharing, and the longer drive times to specialized care facilities significantly reduce the overall score.

This means that individuals with hypertension in Bassfield may face challenges in adhering to their prescribed medication regimens, attending regular check-ups, and accessing specialized medical care. The reliance on personal vehicles, or the need to arrange and pay for alternative transportation, can create barriers to consistent healthcare access. This is a critical consideration for anyone considering moving to Bassfield, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Transportation Landscape**

For residents of Bassfield managing hypertension, understanding the limitations of the local transportation infrastructure is essential. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the challenges associated with healthcare access must be carefully considered. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited availability of public transportation, and the potential costs of medical transport all contribute to a moderately impacted Hypertension Score.

Individuals considering moving to Bassfield should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess their ability to consistently access necessary healthcare services. Planning for transportation to medical appointments, establishing a reliable support network, and understanding the available medical transport options are crucial steps in ensuring effective hypertension management in this rural setting. The ability to navigate this transportation landscape is vital for maintaining good health and quality of life in Bassfield.