39461, Neely, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39461, Neely, Mississippi is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.48 percent of residents in 39461 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital Cah with a distance of 10.98 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 39461

The sun beats down relentlessly in the heart of Mississippi, and in the ZIP code of 39461, the vibrant town of Neely, the specter of hypertension looms. Understanding the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for those managing this silent killer, is paramount. This write-up delves into the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access for individuals residing in Neely, providing a "Hypertension Score" based on the challenges and opportunities presented by the local landscape. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, offering a comprehensive view of the transportation landscape.

The primary challenge for residents of Neely is the relative isolation and the reliance on personal vehicles. The town is nestled within a rural setting, far from the bustling medical centers of larger cities. The most direct route to healthcare, for example, to Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg, necessitates a drive along US-49, a major artery connecting Neely to the wider world. This journey, typically spanning approximately 25 miles, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the inevitable slowdowns caused by the rural nature of the route.

The journey becomes significantly more complicated for those without personal transportation. Public transportation options are limited, and the lack of robust infrastructure creates significant barriers. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system means that individuals are forced to rely on the kindness of friends, family, or potentially expensive ride-sharing services. This lack of readily available transportation directly impacts healthcare access, especially for those with chronic conditions like hypertension, who require regular check-ups and medication refills.

The absence of public transit is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. Without a reliable and affordable means of getting to healthcare appointments, individuals are forced to make difficult choices, potentially delaying or forgoing vital medical care. This can lead to uncontrolled hypertension, increasing the risk of serious health complications. The score reflects this critical deficiency, highlighting the urgent need for alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution, but their availability in Neely is uncertain. The rural nature of the area may limit their operational scope, and the cost of these services can be prohibitive for many residents, especially those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services are therefore key considerations in the Hypertension Score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with mobility issues or specific medical needs, represent another option. These services, often provided by private companies, can transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, particularly for those residing in more remote areas of the ZIP code. The accessibility and affordability of medical transport services are crucial factors in determining the overall Hypertension Score.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are another significant factor. The distance to the nearest hospital, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, can add significant stress to individuals managing hypertension. Long travel times can also make it more difficult to adhere to appointment schedules, potentially leading to missed appointments and disruptions in care. The Hypertension Score accounts for these time-related challenges, reflecting the impact of travel distance on healthcare access.

The roads themselves play a critical role. US-49, while a major highway, can be subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The condition of the roads, including the presence of potholes and other hazards, can also impact travel times and the safety of patients. The Hypertension Score considers the condition of the roads and their potential impact on healthcare access.

Beyond the main highways, the smaller roads and local streets within Neely also influence healthcare access. These roads, often less well-maintained, can be challenging to navigate, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those relying on public transportation. The Hypertension Score considers the quality of these local roads and their impact on healthcare access.

The lack of accessible public transportation options, the potential limitations of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles all contribute to a lower Hypertension Score. The score highlights the need for improved transportation solutions, such as expanding public transit options or incentivizing ride-sharing services in the area.

The absence of a robust public transit system in Neely is a major deficiency. The lack of buses or other forms of public transportation severely limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. This deficiency directly impacts the Hypertension Score, highlighting the need for investment in public transit infrastructure.

The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is another critical factor. Individuals with disabilities require transportation that meets their specific needs, including wheelchair access and other accommodations. The absence of such options can further limit healthcare access and negatively impact the Hypertension Score.

The availability of specialized medical transport services is a crucial consideration. These services, designed to cater to patients with specific medical needs, can provide a vital lifeline for those who are unable to drive or use public transportation. The Hypertension Score reflects the availability and affordability of these services.

The overall Hypertension Score for Neely (39461) reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The score is influenced by the distance to healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options, the potential limitations of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport services. The score serves as a call to action, highlighting the need for improved transportation solutions to enhance healthcare access for all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The score would be improved by increasing the availability of public transportation, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport options. Improving the quality of local roads and ensuring that all transportation options are ADA-compliant would also contribute to a higher score.

The goal is to create a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all residents of Neely, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to receive the care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing the current state of healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement.