39465, Petal, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39465, Petal, Mississippi is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.20 percent of residents in 39465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Perry County General Hospital with a distance of 16.42 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Petal, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39465)

The charming city of Petal, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of the Pine Belt, presents a unique set of considerations for residents, especially concerning healthcare access. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for individuals residing in ZIP code 39465, focusing on the challenges and opportunities related to transportation and healthcare access, particularly for those managing hypertension. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Petal, Mississippi, or for current residents seeking optimal healthcare solutions.

The Hypertension Score considers the ease of reaching medical facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services. This is particularly vital for individuals with hypertension, who require regular monitoring, medication refills, and potential emergency care. The score is not a single number but a multifaceted assessment, acknowledging the diverse needs and circumstances of the population.

One of the primary challenges in Petal, as in many rural areas, is transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The city is primarily served by Interstate 59, providing a crucial artery for travel to larger medical centers in Hattiesburg, approximately 10 miles away. The drive typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. However, individuals without reliable transportation, particularly those with mobility limitations or those unable to drive due to health conditions, face considerable hurdles.

Local roads like Evelyn Gandy Parkway, also known as Highway 42, and Old Highway 11 offer alternative routes, though they are often slower and can be more congested during peak hours. These routes are essential for accessing local pharmacies, clinics, and other essential services within Petal. The condition of these roads, including potential potholes and lack of sidewalks in certain areas, can impact the safety and comfort of travel, particularly for those with hypertension and related conditions.

Public transportation options in Petal are limited. The primary public transportation provider in the region is the Hattiesburg Area Mass Transit (HAMT). However, HAMT's services in Petal are infrequent and primarily focus on connecting to Hattiesburg. While HAMT offers ADA-accessible buses, the limited route coverage and scheduling make it an impractical option for many residents, especially those with urgent healthcare needs. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, as it restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make these services financially inaccessible for some individuals. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in Petal may be limited compared to larger urban areas, potentially leading to longer wait times and increased stress for those seeking timely medical attention. This is a critical factor in assessing the Hypertension Score, as delays in accessing healthcare can have serious consequences for individuals with hypertension.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring non-emergency medical transport. Companies like First Call Medical Transport and other regional providers offer services to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transportation, but they provide a valuable service for those with mobility issues or other medical needs that prevent them from driving. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs must be considered when evaluating the overall healthcare access in Petal.

Healthcare access in Petal itself is another crucial factor. The city has several primary care clinics and pharmacies, offering convenient access to routine check-ups, medication refills, and basic medical services. However, for specialized care, such as cardiology, endocrinology, or nephrology, residents often need to travel to Hattiesburg or other larger medical centers. This travel time, combined with the transportation challenges, further impacts the Hypertension Score.

The availability of pharmacies within Petal is a positive factor. Pharmacies offer convenient access to medications, including those used to manage hypertension. However, the ability to easily refill prescriptions and the availability of medication counseling services are crucial for individuals managing their condition. The proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and the ease of access, including drive-through options, are important considerations.

The overall healthcare infrastructure in the Hattiesburg area, including the presence of hospitals, specialist clinics, and emergency services, is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. The proximity of Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg provides access to advanced medical care, including emergency services. However, the travel time to reach this facility, especially during an emergency, can be a critical factor for individuals with hypertension.

For those moving to Petal, Mississippi, understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access challenges is essential. Individuals with hypertension should carefully consider their transportation options, the availability of healthcare services, and the potential costs associated with accessing medical care. Planning for transportation needs, including potential reliance on family, friends, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation, is crucial.

The Hypertension Score for Petal, Mississippi (ZIP code 39465) is, therefore, a mixed bag. While the city offers local healthcare options and access to larger medical facilities in Hattiesburg, the limitations in public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles pose significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative options, but their cost and reliability must be carefully considered. For individuals with hypertension, proactive planning and awareness of these factors are essential for ensuring optimal healthcare access and management of their condition. The score can be improved by enhancing public transportation, promoting accessible healthcare facilities, and supporting initiatives that address transportation barriers for vulnerable populations.