38664, Robinsonville, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38664, Robinsonville, Mississippi is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.30 percent of residents in 38664 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Memorial Hospital Desoto with a distance of 20.57 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Robinsonville, MS (ZIP Code 38664)

Robinsonville, Mississippi, nestled within the 38664 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for evaluating overall health, particularly concerning healthcare access. The community's location, a blend of rural and developing suburban elements, significantly impacts the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering transportation options, drive times, and the availability of various healthcare services. It aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for individuals considering moving to Robinsonville, focusing on the critical link between transportation and well-being.

The score will be based on several factors: drive times to key healthcare providers, public transit options (including ADA accessibility), ride-sharing and medical transport availability, and the overall convenience of accessing essential medical care. The analysis will consider the practical realities of navigating the local transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary challenge for Robinsonville residents is the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation. The road network, while functional, can present difficulties. The primary thoroughfare is **Highway 61**, a major artery connecting Robinsonville to surrounding towns and cities. Traffic on Highway 61 can be heavy, especially during peak hours, and is subject to delays due to accidents or construction.

Reaching major healthcare facilities necessitates traveling on Highway 61 and connecting to other routes. **Highway 4** provides access to areas east of Robinsonville, while **Old Highway 61** offers a more scenic, albeit slower, alternative. The drive to the nearest hospital, **Baptist Memorial Hospital – DeSoto** in Southaven, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This time frame is a significant consideration for individuals requiring urgent care or facing medical emergencies. The hospital is a regional hub, offering a comprehensive range of services, making it a critical destination for many residents.

Other essential healthcare providers, such as specialists and outpatient clinics, are often located in Southaven, Olive Branch, or Memphis, Tennessee. Drive times to these locations can vary considerably. Traveling to Memphis, a major healthcare center, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This increased travel time can be a substantial burden, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Robinsonville and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary public transit provider is the **Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA)**, which operates a bus system. However, MATA's routes primarily serve the Memphis metropolitan area and have limited reach into Robinsonville.

Currently, no MATA bus routes directly serve Robinsonville. This absence of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Individuals relying on public transportation must find alternative means to reach MATA routes, often involving taxis, ride-sharing services, or relying on friends and family.

Regarding ADA accessibility, MATA strives to provide accessible services. All fixed-route buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of direct routes to Robinsonville limits the practical application of these accessibility features for residents in the 38664 ZIP code.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Robinsonville. However, their availability can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services are available in the area. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation Services** offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services are valuable, they may require prior scheduling and can be subject to availability and cost considerations.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Robinsonville (38664) is **moderate**. While the area has access to a range of healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation present significant challenges.

**Strengths:**

* Proximity to Baptist Memorial Hospital – DeSoto.
* Availability of ride-sharing services (though with limitations).
* Presence of medical transport services.

**Weaknesses:**

* Limited public transportation options.
* Dependence on personal vehicles.
* Potential for long drive times to specialized healthcare providers in Memphis.
* Traffic congestion on Highway 61.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* Advocate for the expansion of MATA bus routes to include Robinsonville.
* Explore partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments.
* Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits.
* Improve traffic flow and road infrastructure on Highway 61 to reduce travel times.
* Encourage the development of additional healthcare facilities within Robinsonville or nearby communities.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Robinsonville offers a unique blend of community living and proximity to larger urban areas. However, individuals considering a move to the 38664 ZIP code must carefully consider the implications of the transportation infrastructure on their healthcare access. While the community provides access to essential medical services, the challenges of navigating the road network and the limitations of public transportation necessitate careful planning and consideration. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare and overall well-being in Robinsonville. The community's future health hinges on addressing these transportation challenges and fostering a more accessible healthcare environment for all residents.