39503, Gulfport, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39503, Gulfport, Mississippi is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.68 percent of residents in 39503 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Singing River Gulfport with a distance of 1.52 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gulfport, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39503)**

The journey to manage hypertension in Gulfport, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39503) demands a multifaceted understanding of **transportation** options. This assessment explores the accessibility of **healthcare access** for individuals managing this chronic condition, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative mobility solutions. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Gulfport**, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

The primary artery for vehicular movement in Gulfport is Interstate 10 (I-10), a major east-west thoroughfare. Access to healthcare facilities from various points within 39503 is heavily influenced by proximity to I-10. Driving times to hospitals and clinics can vary significantly depending on traffic flow, especially during peak hours. Highway 49, another critical route, runs north-south, providing access to many medical providers.

Consider a resident residing near the intersection of 25th Avenue and 20th Street. Driving to Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, a major healthcare provider, would likely involve navigating city streets to reach Highway 49, then heading south. The drive could take approximately 10-15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. Alternatively, a resident near the intersection of Pass Road and Cowan Road might choose to use Pass Road to get to the hospital, a shorter route, but often congested.

Public transit, while present, presents challenges for individuals with hypertension. The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) operates several bus routes within Gulfport. Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3 are among the most frequently used, providing connections to various parts of the city. Unfortunately, the frequency of these routes can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. CTA buses are equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessibility for many. However, the wait times between buses and the potential for transfers can be problematic for those with hypertension, especially during hot and humid Mississippi summers. The added stress of navigating public transit, coupled with potential delays, can negatively impact blood pressure management.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Gulfport, offering a more flexible **transportation** alternative. These services provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need for walking long distances or navigating complex bus routes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The availability of ride-sharing can also be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, are another option. Companies like MedTrans and First Choice Medical **Transportation** provide non-emergency medical **transportation** services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services offer a higher level of care and support, ensuring a safer and more comfortable journey to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The location of healthcare facilities within 39503 significantly impacts **healthcare access**. Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, located near the intersection of Highway 49 and 20th Street, is a major regional medical center, offering a wide range of services, including cardiology and internal medicine. Other clinics and specialist practices are scattered throughout the city, some clustered around the hospital and others located further away.

Access to pharmacies is also a critical component of managing hypertension. Several pharmacies, including national chains like CVS and Walgreens, as well as independent pharmacies, are located within 39503. The proximity of a pharmacy to a patient's home or healthcare provider is crucial for medication adherence.

The impact of **transportation** on **healthcare access** extends beyond just the physical journey. The stress of navigating traffic, waiting for public transit, or coordinating ride-sharing can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Furthermore, the time spent traveling to and from appointments can reduce the time available for other essential activities, such as exercise, healthy meal preparation, and rest, all of which are critical for managing hypertension.

For individuals **moving to Gulfport** with hypertension, a thorough assessment of **transportation** options is paramount. Consider the proximity of your residence to healthcare providers, pharmacies, and grocery stores. Evaluate the feasibility of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation** services. Factor in the cost, convenience, and accessibility of each option.

The **transportation** landscape in Gulfport, Mississippi, is evolving. The city is continually working to improve its public transit system and expand its **transportation** options. However, for those with hypertension, careful planning and proactive management of **transportation** needs are essential to ensure consistent **healthcare access** and maintain optimal blood pressure control.

The ideal scenario involves a combination of strategies. For example, a patient might rely on driving for routine appointments, utilize ride-sharing for specialist visits, and have access to medical **transportation** for more complex medical needs. Proactive planning, including scheduling appointments strategically and ensuring easy access to medications, can significantly improve **healthcare access** and quality of life.

Ultimately, the **Hypertension Score** for **transportation** in Gulfport (39503) is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It reflects the individual's ability to navigate the city's **transportation** network to obtain the necessary healthcare services. This score is influenced by factors like physical limitations, financial resources, and the availability of support networks.

The key to successful hypertension management in Gulfport is to proactively address the **transportation** challenges. By understanding the available options, planning strategically, and seeking support when needed, individuals can navigate the **transportation** landscape and maintain optimal **healthcare access**, leading to improved health outcomes and a higher quality of life, even while **moving to Gulfport**.