39474, Prentiss, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39474, Prentiss, Mississippi is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.28 percent of residents in 39474 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jefferson Davis Community Hospital Cah with a distance of 0.38 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Prentiss, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39474)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to care, and in Prentiss, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39474), this access is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension, a chronic condition demanding consistent medical attention, within the context of their daily commute to healthcare. We will explore the intricacies of transportation, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' for this specific locale. This information is particularly crucial for those considering moving to Prentiss, as it will directly impact their ability to manage their health effectively.

For residents of Prentiss, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The town is bisected by **Highway 84**, a critical artery connecting Prentiss to larger regional hubs. Travel to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities in Hattiesburg, approximately 40 miles east, necessitates a drive primarily via **Highway 84 East** and then **Interstate 59 South**. Under ideal conditions, this commute can take around an hour, but traffic, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, can significantly extend this travel time. This extended travel time is a significant consideration for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent check-ups, medication refills, or urgent care visits.

Smaller, more localized healthcare providers, such as family clinics or urgent care facilities, may be available closer to Prentiss. However, the quality and scope of services offered by these facilities may vary, potentially requiring patients to travel to Hattiesburg for specialized care. The availability of a reliable personal vehicle is, therefore, paramount for ensuring consistent healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. Road conditions, vehicle maintenance costs, and the financial burden of fuel all contribute to the overall 'Hypertension Score' for this area.

Public transportation options in Prentiss are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town or providing regular service to Hattiesburg. This lack of public transit presents a major challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive due to medical conditions, or have limited mobility. The absence of accessible public transportation severely restricts healthcare access, especially for those with chronic conditions like hypertension, who may struggle to arrange alternative transportation.

The lack of public transit also affects the elderly and disabled populations disproportionately. Without accessible options, these individuals are forced to rely on family, friends, or potentially expensive ride-sharing services to attend medical appointments. The absence of ADA-compliant buses or other public transit further exacerbates the challenges for those with mobility impairments. This absence significantly lowers the 'Hypertension Score' for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hattiesburg area, but their presence in Prentiss is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density, which can fluctuate, and the cost of these services can be substantial, especially for longer trips to Hattiesburg. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing, therefore, are not guaranteed. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access, potentially delaying or preventing necessary medical care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring non-emergency transport, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **Med-Ride** and **Ambulette Services** operate in the region, providing transportation for medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility, and can be particularly beneficial for individuals with physical limitations. However, these services often come with a higher price tag than ride-sharing or personal vehicle use, further increasing the financial burden on patients.

The availability of medical transport services can improve the 'Hypertension Score' for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle. However, the cost and availability of these services are critical factors. The need to schedule transportation in advance and the potential for delays can also impact the timeliness of medical appointments.

For those considering moving to Prentiss, the 'Hypertension Score' highlights several key considerations. The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access necessitates careful planning and budgeting for vehicle maintenance, fuel costs, and potential travel time. The limited public transportation options and the fluctuating availability and cost of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges for those without access to a personal vehicle. The availability of medical transport services provides an alternative, but the associated costs and scheduling requirements need to be carefully evaluated.

The distance to major healthcare facilities in Hattiesburg is another critical factor. While the drive is manageable under ideal conditions, unforeseen circumstances, such as traffic or inclement weather, can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting the timely delivery of care. The availability and quality of local healthcare providers also play a crucial role. Individuals should research the services offered by local clinics and urgent care facilities to determine if they meet their specific healthcare needs.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for Prentiss, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39474) reflects a healthcare landscape heavily reliant on personal transportation. The lack of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension, particularly those without access to a personal vehicle. The availability of medical transport services offers a potential solution, but the associated costs and scheduling requirements must be carefully considered. For those contemplating a move to Prentiss, a thorough assessment of transportation options, healthcare provider availability, and personal financial resources is essential to ensure effective management of hypertension and overall healthcare access.