39564, Ocean Springs, Mississippi Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 39564, Ocean Springs, Mississippi is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.51 percent of residents in 39564 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Biloxi with a distance of 7.54 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ocean Springs (ZIP Code 39564)**

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, a coastal gem in Jackson County, beckons with its artistic flair, serene beaches, and welcoming community. However, prospective residents, particularly those managing hypertension, must consider the practicalities of healthcare access. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" write-up, delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 39564, assessing the ease of reaching essential medical services for those with high blood pressure. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Ocean Springs and prioritizing their health.

The foundation of healthcare access rests on reliable transportation. For Ocean Springs residents, the primary mode of transport is the personal vehicle. The city is traversed by US Highway 90, a major east-west artery, and Interstate 10, offering convenient connections to larger cities like Mobile, Alabama, and New Orleans, Louisiana. These highways are critical for accessing specialized medical care beyond the immediate Ocean Springs area.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within Ocean Springs itself are generally manageable. Singing River Health System, a prominent healthcare provider, operates several clinics and the Ocean Springs Hospital. Driving to these facilities from various points within the city typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. During peak hours, particularly along Bienville Boulevard (US 90) and Washington Avenue, traffic can become congested, potentially adding to travel times.

For residents needing to access specialists or more advanced medical services, the drive to Gulfport, Mississippi, approximately 15 miles west, is often necessary. This journey primarily involves traveling west on US 90. Under normal traffic conditions, the drive to Gulfport's medical facilities, including Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, takes about 20 to 30 minutes. However, the presence of drawbridges along US 90, particularly the Biloxi Bay Bridge, can introduce delays, especially during peak travel times or when marine traffic is present.

Public transportation options in Ocean Springs and the surrounding areas are limited. The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus service throughout Jackson County. However, the frequency of routes and the geographical coverage are not extensive. The CTA operates several routes that serve Ocean Springs, but the schedules may not align perfectly with the needs of individuals requiring regular medical appointments. ADA-accessible buses are available on CTA routes, offering a crucial service for those with mobility limitations. Route 40, for example, travels along US 90, providing a potential link to healthcare facilities, but frequency and route coverage must be carefully assessed.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Ocean Springs. They offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. However, the availability of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly important for those with mobility limitations or other health conditions that make it difficult to travel independently. Several providers operate in the Ocean Springs area, including Acadian Ambulance and other private NEMT companies. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility criteria.

The "Hypertension Score" for Ocean Springs, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderate. While the city offers local healthcare facilities and relatively short drive times, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options mitigates some of these concerns.

Individuals with hypertension need to carefully consider these factors when assessing their healthcare access. The ease of reaching their primary care physician, specialists, and emergency services is paramount. Regular medication refills, blood pressure monitoring, and potential complications require prompt and reliable transportation.

For those moving to Ocean Springs with hypertension, the following recommendations are crucial. First, establish a relationship with a primary care physician within the city. This ensures easy access to routine checkups and medication management. Second, assess the availability and reliability of transportation options. If driving is not feasible, explore ride-sharing services, public transit, or medical transport options. Third, factor in potential travel times and traffic conditions, especially when scheduling appointments. Fourth, familiarize yourself with emergency medical services and their response times.

The choice of where to live is deeply personal. However, for individuals managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. Ocean Springs offers a desirable quality of life, but prospective residents must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape to ensure they can readily access the medical care they need. This "Hypertension Score" write-up provides a starting point for that critical evaluation, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being in this beautiful coastal community.