39482, Sumrall, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39482, Sumrall, Mississippi is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.26 percent of residents in 39482 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jefferson Davis Community Hospital Cah with a distance of 25.51 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sumrall, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39482)

Considering a move to the charming town of Sumrall, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39482)? This assessment delves into the realities of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial, as timely access to medical care is paramount for effective blood pressure control. This write-up provides a detailed “Hypertension Score” analysis, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all crucial elements in assessing healthcare accessibility.

Sumrall, a small community nestled in Lamar County, offers a slower pace of life, but healthcare access requires careful consideration. The nearest primary care physicians and specialists are primarily located in Hattiesburg, approximately 15 miles south. This distance, while seemingly manageable, can become a significant hurdle for individuals with hypertension, especially during emergencies or for regular check-ups. The ability to reach healthcare providers promptly is directly linked to successful blood pressure management, making transportation a critical factor.

**Drive Times: The Road to Healthcare**

The primary route connecting Sumrall to Hattiesburg is via **Highway 98**. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend this travel time, potentially impacting the timely arrival for appointments or, more critically, emergency medical situations.

Alternative routes exist, but they often involve navigating smaller county roads. **Old Highway 98** offers a parallel route, but its condition may vary, and it lacks the same level of traffic management as Highway 98. **Sumrall-Oak Grove Road** and **Sumrall-Bassfield Road** provide additional options, but these roads are typically less maintained and may involve more rural driving, potentially increasing travel time and risk.

For individuals living on the outskirts of Sumrall, drive times can be considerably longer. Residents in more remote areas may face a commute exceeding 45 minutes to reach a medical facility in Hattiesburg, further emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier to consistent healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Sumrall and Lamar County are limited. The availability of public transit is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. Currently, there is no established public bus system that directly serves Sumrall with frequent routes to Hattiesburg.

This lack of public transportation presents a considerable challenge for individuals with hypertension. Without reliable public transit, patients may struggle to attend regular appointments, medication refills, or follow-up visits. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hattiesburg area, but their presence in Sumrall is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing services for regular medical appointments is not always feasible.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance, offer a more reliable alternative. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking, and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the cost of medical transport can be a significant financial burden.

Several medical transport providers operate in the Hattiesburg area, including local ambulance services and private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking, which is crucial for planning appointments and ensuring timely arrival.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible transportation is paramount. Public transportation, when available, must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring that buses and other vehicles are equipped with ramps or lifts and that designated seating is available.

Ride-sharing services often offer accessible vehicle options, but availability may be limited, and advance booking is often necessary. Medical transportation services typically provide ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access medical care.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score**

The "Hypertension Score" for Sumrall, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39482) reflects the combined impact of transportation challenges on healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The relatively short drive to Hattiesburg is offset by the potential for traffic delays.
* **Public Transportation:** The lack of public transit significantly hinders healthcare access.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Limited and inconsistent ride-sharing availability adds to the transportation challenges.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability of medical transport offers a viable, albeit potentially expensive, solution.

Considering these factors, the Hypertension Score for Sumrall is moderately challenging. While the proximity to Hattiesburg provides some advantages, the lack of public transportation and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport create significant barriers to healthcare access.

**Moving to Sumrall: Planning for Healthcare Needs**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to Sumrall, careful planning is essential. Prioritize the following:

* **Assess Transportation Options:** Evaluate your ability to drive or secure reliable transportation.
* **Identify Healthcare Providers:** Research and select healthcare providers in Hattiesburg or the surrounding areas.
* **Explore Medical Transport:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop an emergency plan that includes transportation arrangements to the nearest hospital.
* **Consider Proximity:** If possible, consider living closer to Highway 98 to minimize drive times.

Moving to Sumrall can be a rewarding experience, but it is crucial to acknowledge the transportation challenges and proactively address healthcare access. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this Hypertension Score analysis, individuals with hypertension can make informed decisions and ensure they receive the necessary medical care. This proactive approach will contribute to successful blood pressure management and a healthier lifestyle in their new community. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is key to thriving in Sumrall.