39525, Diamondhead, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39525, Diamondhead, Mississippi is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.05 percent of residents in 39525 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Medical Center-Hancock with a distance of 5.10 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Diamondhead, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39525)

Diamondhead, Mississippi, a picturesque coastal community, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, examining drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, to assess the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical appointments and maintain their health. We will analyze how these factors influence a "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP Code 39525, ultimately impacting their overall well-being.

The primary mode of transportation for most Diamondhead residents is the personal vehicle. The city's layout and the dispersed nature of healthcare facilities necessitate reliance on cars. Drive times to crucial medical appointments, including those for hypertension management, are heavily influenced by traffic patterns and distance. The major thoroughfares impacting healthcare access are Interstate 10 (I-10), Highway 607, and Waveland Avenue.

For those living in the eastern portions of Diamondhead, reaching the nearest hospitals and clinics in Bay St. Louis or Waveland often involves navigating Highway 607, a road known for its potential congestion, especially during peak hours. The drive to Hancock Medical Center in Bay St. Louis, a critical healthcare provider, can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This duration can significantly impact a patient's ability to promptly receive care, particularly in emergency situations.

Residents in the western part of Diamondhead may find that reaching facilities in Gulfport or Biloxi via I-10 is more convenient. However, I-10 is subject to significant traffic delays, especially during rush hour and tourist season. A trip to Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, for example, could take 30 to 45 minutes or even longer, impacting the Hypertension Score by increasing stress levels and potentially delaying necessary medical interventions.

Public transportation options in Diamondhead are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus services throughout Hancock County, but the routes and frequency are not always ideal for accessing healthcare facilities. Route 13, for instance, travels along Highway 90, offering some access to medical offices in Bay St. Louis and Waveland, but the frequency of service may not align with appointment schedules.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. While CTA strives to provide accessible services, the reliance on public transit can still be a barrier for some, affecting their ability to attend regular check-ups and manage their hypertension effectively. The lack of robust public transit negatively influences the Hypertension Score, particularly for those with limited mobility or financial constraints.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability and affordability in Diamondhead can vary. While these services can provide convenient access to healthcare facilities, the cost can be a significant burden for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The reliability of ride-sharing services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can also be a concern, impacting the Hypertension Score by adding uncertainty and potential delays to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are available for individuals requiring assistance with mobility or those needing transportation for specific medical appointments. However, these services are typically reserved for those with specific medical needs and may not be readily accessible for routine check-ups or general healthcare appointments. The limited availability of these services can further exacerbate transportation challenges for some residents, contributing to a lower Hypertension Score.

The overall impact of these transportation factors on the Hypertension Score for residents of Diamondhead is significant. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic delays, can contribute to stress and anxiety, which can negatively impact blood pressure levels. The limited availability of public transit and the cost of ride-sharing services can create barriers to accessing healthcare, leading to missed appointments and delayed treatment.

When considering moving to Diamondhead, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Individuals with hypertension or other chronic health conditions should factor in the drive times to medical facilities, the reliability of public transit options, and the cost of ride-sharing services.

The Hypertension Score for Diamondhead residents reflects the complex interplay of transportation and healthcare access. Factors like drive times, public transit limitations, and the cost of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall score. Improving the Hypertension Score requires addressing these transportation challenges, perhaps through increased public transit frequency, expanded ride-sharing programs, or initiatives to promote carpooling and alternative transportation options.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a community where all residents, regardless of their transportation limitations, can easily access the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension and maintain their overall well-being. By understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by the transportation landscape in Diamondhead, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and actively participate in efforts to improve healthcare access for all.