39483, Foxworth, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39483, Foxworth, Mississippi is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.29 percent of residents in 39483 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Marion General Hospital with a distance of 6.80 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39483 (Foxworth, Mississippi)**

Navigating the terrain of healthcare access in Foxworth, Mississippi (ZIP code 39483), necessitates a deep dive into transportation options. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability, all critical factors influencing a resident's ability to receive timely and effective care, especially for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding for individuals considering moving to Foxworth and for current residents seeking improved healthcare access.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in understanding the geography. Foxworth, a small town nestled in Marion County, offers a rural setting. The primary mode of transportation is personal vehicles. Highway 98, a vital east-west artery, serves as the main thoroughfare, providing access to larger towns like Columbia (the county seat) and Hattiesburg. Highway 35, running north-south, offers connections to other regional destinations. Local roads, such as Old Columbia Road and Foxworth Road, facilitate movement within the town and surrounding areas.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant determinant of the Hypertension Score. Columbia, approximately 15 minutes east via Highway 98, hosts Marion General Hospital, offering a range of medical services, including cardiology and internal medicine, essential for hypertension management. Hattiesburg, roughly 45 minutes west on Highway 98, provides access to more specialized care at facilities like Forrest General Hospital and various clinics. These longer drive times, particularly for routine check-ups or urgent care, can negatively impact the score, emphasizing the importance of readily available transportation.

Public transit options in Foxworth are limited. The absence of a dedicated city bus system or county-wide public transportation poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. This lack of transportation significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who cannot drive. The absence of public transit further emphasizes the reliance on private transportation and its associated challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hattiesburg area, but their presence in Foxworth is less certain. Availability and wait times can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability impacts the Hypertension Score, especially for individuals who rely on ride-sharing for medical appointments. The potential for delayed or cancelled rides can create significant barriers to accessing healthcare.

Medical transport services are a crucial element of the healthcare landscape, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services for scheduled appointments. NEMT services, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles, are essential for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit. The availability, cost, and reliability of these services directly influence the Hypertension Score.

The quality of healthcare access is intrinsically linked to the affordability of transportation. The cost of owning and operating a vehicle, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, can be a significant financial burden. For individuals on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources, these costs can create barriers to healthcare access. The availability of affordable transportation options, such as subsidized ride-sharing programs or community-based transportation services, can positively influence the Hypertension Score.

The presence of healthcare facilities within Foxworth itself is a critical factor. The availability of primary care physicians, pharmacies, and other essential healthcare services within the town significantly improves the Hypertension Score. Proximity to these facilities reduces drive times, increases convenience, and enhances the overall accessibility of healthcare. The availability of local healthcare services is a significant advantage.

The impact of distance on healthcare access is not uniform. Individuals with severe hypertension or other chronic conditions may require more frequent medical appointments and specialized care. The longer the commute to healthcare facilities, the greater the risk of missed appointments, delayed treatment, and poorer health outcomes. The Hypertension Score must reflect this increased vulnerability.

The integration of technology can also influence healthcare access. Telemedicine, the use of video conferencing and other technologies to deliver healthcare services remotely, can be a valuable tool for individuals in rural areas. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, improve convenience, and enhance access to specialist care. The availability of reliable internet access and the adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers can positively influence the Hypertension Score.

When considering moving to Foxworth, potential residents must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Individuals with hypertension or other chronic conditions should assess the availability of healthcare facilities, transportation options, and the potential costs associated with accessing care. The Hypertension Score provides a framework for evaluating these factors and making informed decisions.

The overall Hypertension Score for Foxworth, Mississippi (ZIP code 39483) is moderate. While the town offers a degree of healthcare access through local services and proximity to Columbia, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options, especially for individuals with mobility limitations, is a significant concern. The score can be improved by increasing the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The implementation of community-based transportation programs and the expansion of telemedicine services can also enhance healthcare access and improve the Hypertension Score for the residents of Foxworth.