39455, Lumberton, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39455, Lumberton, Mississippi is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.49 percent of residents in 39455 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pearl River County Hospital with a distance of 10.98 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lumberton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39455)

The quest for optimal health, especially when managing conditions like hypertension, hinges on dependable **transportation** and facile **healthcare access**. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" analysis, delves into the nuances of getting to medical appointments and acquiring necessary medications within Lumberton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39455). We will explore the available modes of travel, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, all crucial factors for residents, particularly those **moving to Lumberton** or already residing there.

Lumberton, a small town nestled in Lamar County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare. The availability of specialized medical services may be limited within the immediate confines of the town, potentially necessitating travel to larger cities like Hattiesburg, approximately 20 miles away, or even further afield. This distance, coupled with the reliance on personal vehicles in a rural setting, dictates the need for a comprehensive understanding of **transportation** options.

Driving, the most prevalent mode of travel, is heavily influenced by road conditions and traffic flow. Residents of Lumberton primarily rely on US Highway 98, a major east-west artery, and Mississippi Highway 13, running north-south, to access healthcare. The drive to Hattiesburg, for instance, typically involves navigating US-98, which, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially around intersections. The drive time can vary from 25 to 40 minutes depending on traffic and the specific location of the healthcare facility.

Beyond Hattiesburg, access to more specialized care may require travel to larger medical centers in Gulfport or even Jackson. These journeys involve longer drive times, potentially exceeding an hour or more, depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The ability to drive oneself, or the availability of a capable driver, becomes a critical determinant of **healthcare access**.

Public transit options in Lumberton and the surrounding areas are limited. Lamar County, like many rural regions, does not have an extensive public transportation network. While there might be local shuttle services or demand-response systems, their frequency and coverage are often restricted. Information regarding specific routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is often difficult to obtain and subject to change. Residents relying on public transit for **healthcare access** must proactively research available options and plan their trips meticulously.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the importance of ride-sharing services. Uber and Lyft, the dominant players in the ride-sharing market, may operate in Lumberton and Hattiesburg. However, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or for longer distances, is not guaranteed. Ride-sharing fares can also fluctuate based on demand, potentially increasing the cost of **healthcare access** for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs, offer another potential solution. These services, often operated by private companies or healthcare providers, provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. However, the availability of medical transportation services in Lumberton might be limited, and the cost can be a significant factor. Patients should research local providers and inquire about their services, pricing, and insurance coverage.

For individuals **moving to Lumberton**, the assessment of **healthcare access** should be a priority. Understanding the existing **transportation** infrastructure and the availability of various services is crucial for ensuring continuity of care, especially for those with chronic conditions like hypertension. The distance to healthcare facilities, the reliability of **transportation** options, and the associated costs all contribute to the overall "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP Code 39455.

The absence of readily available public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services emphasize the importance of personal vehicles. Those without access to a car, or those unable to drive due to health conditions, face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. This underscores the need for community-based solutions, such as volunteer driver programs or partnerships between healthcare providers and local organizations.

Furthermore, the expansion of telehealth services can play a crucial role in improving **healthcare access** in Lumberton. Telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring, and online prescription refills can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on reliable internet access, which may be limited in certain areas of Lumberton.

The "Hypertension Score" for Lumberton, therefore, is a complex calculation. It considers the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options. It also factors in the availability of telehealth services and the presence of community-based support programs.

For those **moving to Lumberton**, researching the specific locations of healthcare providers, their associated drive times, and the available **transportation** options is paramount. Contacting local healthcare facilities, inquiring about patient **transportation** assistance, and exploring telehealth options are all essential steps.

In conclusion, while Lumberton offers a tranquil lifestyle, the **transportation** landscape presents challenges for **healthcare access**, especially for those managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 39455 highlights the need for careful planning, proactive research, and a willingness to explore all available options to ensure timely and consistent access to medical care. The success of managing hypertension in Lumberton, Mississippi, hinges on the ability to navigate the **transportation** hurdles and proactively seek out the resources needed to maintain optimal health.