39422, Bay Springs, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39422, Bay Springs, Mississippi is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.02 percent of residents in 39422 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Central Reg Med Ctr with a distance of 20.42 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bay Springs (ZIP Code 39422)

Considering a move to the charming town of Bay Springs, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39422)? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access, specifically for those managing hypertension. This score considers the ease of transportation to medical facilities, vital for consistent monitoring and treatment. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture for prospective residents. Understanding these factors is critical for anyone prioritizing their health while making a significant life change.

The foundation of our "Hypertension Score" rests on the premise that consistent healthcare access is paramount for managing this chronic condition. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and the ability to quickly seek medical attention during emergencies are essential. Therefore, our analysis will weigh the accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering the limitations and opportunities presented by Bay Springs' location and transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

Bay Springs, nestled in Jasper County, relies heavily on vehicular transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the state highways and local roads. For residents, understanding drive times to medical facilities is the cornerstone of evaluating healthcare access.

The nearest significant healthcare hub is likely the South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, approximately 30 miles away. The journey typically involves traveling south on **Highway 15**, a major thoroughfare connecting Bay Springs to Laurel. Expect a drive time of around 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise during peak hours or due to inclement weather.

Another option is to travel west on **Highway 18**, which connects to **Highway 49** for access to Hattiesburg. This route is slightly longer in distance, adding roughly 10 miles, and may take approximately an hour or more. The drive time is significantly impacted by traffic congestion around Hattiesburg, particularly during rush hour.

Local roads like **County Road 27** and **County Road 16** provide alternative routes, but they are generally less direct and may be subject to poor road conditions. These routes are generally less desirable for regular medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Bay Springs are limited, a significant factor impacting the "Hypertension Score." Jasper County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This poses a considerable challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

While there might be informal arrangements or limited services offered by local organizations, relying on public transit for regular healthcare appointments is not a viable option. The lack of public transportation significantly reduces healthcare access, especially for those with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

Furthermore, the absence of public transit also limits the ability of those moving to Bay Springs to easily attend appointments. This can significantly impact their ability to manage their condition, especially during their transition.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Hattiesburg area, but their presence in Bay Springs is less certain. Availability can be sporadic, and wait times might be extended, particularly during off-peak hours. This unreliability can be a significant drawback for those needing timely medical attention.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility challenges or those unable to drive. Several providers serve the area, including private ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require advance booking and may involve varying costs.

**Medical Transport brands** such as American Medical Response (AMR) and Rural Metro Ambulance provide emergency and non-emergency transport. NEMT services, such as First Transit and Medical Transport, are crucial for non-emergency appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services should be carefully considered when evaluating the "Hypertension Score."

**ADA Accessibility:**

The availability of ADA-accessible transportation is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. While ride-sharing services often provide accessible options, their availability in Bay Springs is uncertain. Medical transport services typically offer accessible vehicles, but this adds to the cost.

**Healthcare Access: A Synthesis**

The "Hypertension Score" for Bay Springs (39422) reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, require careful planning. The availability of ride-sharing services is uncertain, and the cost of medical transport adds another layer of complexity.

The accessibility of healthcare is a critical factor for those managing hypertension. The absence of reliable public transportation and the potential challenges with ride-sharing services can significantly impact healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Factors for Moving to Bay Springs**

For individuals considering a move to Bay Springs (39422), a thorough understanding of these transportation and healthcare access factors is vital. The "Hypertension Score" for this area would be negatively impacted by the lack of public transportation and the uncertainty of ride-sharing services.

The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline, but the cost and advance booking requirements must be considered. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements before making a decision.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Bay Springs (39422) emphasizes the importance of careful planning. While the town offers a tranquil setting, the accessibility of healthcare requires thoughtful consideration. Those prioritizing their health must weigh the challenges of transportation against the benefits of residing in this community.