The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39423, Beaumont, Mississippi is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
62.49 percent of residents in 39423 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital Cah with a distance of 20.47 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 39423, Beaumont, Mississippi
Hypertension Score | 6 |
---|---|
People Score | 58 |
Provider Score | 7 |
Hospital Score | 16 |
Travel Score | 23 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 39423 | Beaumont | Mississippi |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.31 | 0.31 | 2.14 |
1 Car | 24.35 | 24.35 | 19.38 |
2 Cars | 25.71 | 25.71 | 39.26 |
3 or More Cars | 49.63 | 49.63 | 39.21 |
Vehicular Access in 39423, Beaumont, Mississippi
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Beaumont, MS (ZIP Code 39423)
The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital services, and in the context of managing hypertension, timely and reliable transportation becomes a critical factor. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding Beaumont, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39423), assessing its impact on healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately aiming to provide a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential healthcare appointments.
Beaumont, a small town nestled in the heart of Perry County, presents unique transportation challenges. While the charm of a close-knit community is undeniable, the limited infrastructure can significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for those requiring regular medical attention. The ability to efficiently and affordably get to a doctor's appointment, pharmacy, or specialist is paramount for managing hypertension effectively.
**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**
The primary thoroughfare serving Beaumont is **Highway 98**, a vital east-west artery connecting the town to larger population centers. Traveling east on Highway 98, the city of Hattiesburg, home to Forrest General Hospital and numerous specialist clinics, lies approximately 25 miles away. A typical drive, under ideal conditions, would take around 30-40 minutes. However, traffic, particularly during peak hours, can extend this travel time, potentially impacting medication adherence and appointment punctuality.
Heading west on Highway 98 leads towards other towns and eventually intersects with **Interstate 59**. This interstate offers a faster, albeit potentially more congested, route to Hattiesburg. The drive to Hattiesburg via I-59 is roughly the same distance as Highway 98, but can be completed in a slightly shorter time frame, around 25-35 minutes, provided traffic flows smoothly.
Within Beaumont itself, local roads like **Main Street** and **Railroad Avenue** provide access to local businesses and healthcare facilities. However, these roads are often narrow and can experience congestion during school pick-up and drop-off times. For residents living on the outskirts of town, travel times to the local clinic or pharmacy might be slightly longer, potentially adding to the stress of managing hypertension.
**Public Transit: A Limited Network**
Public transportation options in Beaumont are extremely limited. Perry County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This severely restricts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, those unable to drive due to medical conditions, or those who cannot afford the cost of private transportation.
While there might be occasional demand-response services offered by the county, these are typically geared towards specific needs, such as medical appointments, and require advance booking. Information regarding these services is often difficult to find, and availability may be limited. The absence of a regular bus route or a dedicated transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for a segment of the population, particularly those with mobility limitations.
ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. Any public transportation options, even limited ones, must adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. This includes providing accessible vehicles, ramps, and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of a robust public transit system in Beaumont makes ensuring ADA compliance a challenge.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have gained popularity in many areas. However, their availability in Beaumont is uncertain. The presence of these services often depends on the demand and the availability of drivers. Residents in Beaumont might find it difficult to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments early in the morning or late at night. This uncertainty adds to the challenges of healthcare access.
Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and offer door-to-door assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the broader region, including companies like **MedStar Transportation** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**. However, their availability and cost can vary.
**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**
The overall "Hypertension Score" for Beaumont, MS (39423) is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of a reliable public transit system, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access for many residents. The drive times to Hattiesburg, while manageable for those with personal vehicles, can be stressful and time-consuming, potentially leading to missed appointments or delayed treatment.
**Moving to Beaumont: A Consideration for Healthcare**
For individuals considering moving to Beaumont, particularly those managing hypertension or other chronic conditions, transportation considerations are paramount. The availability of reliable transportation should be a key factor in the decision-making process. Potential residents should assess their transportation needs, explore available options, and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access.
**Improving Healthcare Access: Recommendations**
Addressing the transportation challenges in Beaumont requires a multi-pronged approach. Advocating for the expansion of public transit options, even on a limited scale, would significantly improve healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing services to ensure availability and affordability is another potential solution. Furthermore, promoting medical transport services and educating residents about available resources would be beneficial.
Ultimately, improving healthcare access in Beaumont requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents. By addressing the transportation challenges, the community can create a healthier and more supportive environment for all its residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The ability to efficiently and reliably reach healthcare services is not just a matter of convenience; it is a fundamental right that directly impacts the well-being and quality of life for all residents of Beaumont.
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