38768, Rome, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38768, Rome, Mississippi is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 38768 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Sunflower Medical Center Cah with a distance of 16.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38768

Navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. This report delves into the specifics of transportation options available to residents of ZIP Code 38768, offering an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease, efficiency, and availability of reaching essential medical services. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for current residents and those considering moving to Rome, Mississippi.

The "Overall Health Score" is determined by evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities within a reasonable timeframe. Factors include the density of medical providers, the reliability of transportation options, and the affordability of these services. A higher score indicates better access to healthcare, contributing to a healthier community. This report aims to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access in this specific geographic area.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary arteries for transportation within and around 38768 are crucial to understanding healthcare accessibility. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for commuting. The major thoroughfare is **Highway 82**, a vital east-west route. Traveling east on Highway 82 leads to Greenville, Mississippi, a regional hub for healthcare services. Drive times to Greenville Medical Center, the largest hospital in the area, can vary depending on traffic, but typically range from 30 to 45 minutes.

**Highway 61**, a north-south route, provides another crucial access point. Heading north on Highway 61 leads to Cleveland, Mississippi, where additional healthcare facilities are available. Drive times to facilities in Cleveland are generally longer, averaging around an hour. Smaller roads, such as **County Road 427** and **County Road 415**, provide access to local communities and may offer shorter routes to smaller clinics or physician offices, but these roads are often less well-maintained and can be subject to delays.

The condition of these roads is a factor. Potholes, lack of proper lighting, and infrequent maintenance can increase travel times and pose safety risks, particularly during inclement weather. This can significantly impact the "Overall Health Score" by making it more difficult for residents to reach medical appointments, especially for those with mobility issues or medical emergencies.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in 38768 are limited, which significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score." There is no established public bus system within the ZIP code itself. Residents primarily rely on personal vehicles or, when available, assistance from family and friends to access healthcare. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or have limited financial resources.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the possibility of demand-response transportation services exists through regional programs. These services, often operated by non-profit organizations or county-level initiatives, may offer transportation to medical appointments. However, availability and eligibility requirements can vary. These services often require advance booking, and their operational hours may be restricted, limiting their usefulness for urgent medical needs or appointments outside of standard business hours.

**ADA Accessibility:** The lack of robust public transportation, coupled with the potential limitations of demand-response services, significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score" for individuals with disabilities. The absence of readily available, accessible transportation options poses a considerable challenge for those who require wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids. This lack of accessibility further exacerbates existing health disparities within the community.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not consistently available in 38768. This lack of on-demand transportation options severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The absence of these services necessitates reliance on other, often less reliable, transportation methods. This limitation significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score" for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available. Ambulance services are crucial for emergency medical situations. However, the response time can be affected by the distance to the nearest hospital and the condition of the roads. NEMT services, which typically transport patients to scheduled medical appointments, are available through various providers. These services require prior arrangements and may be subject to scheduling limitations and associated costs.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, providing services to patients in need. These brands include local ambulance services, as well as private companies specializing in NEMT. The specific providers and their service areas may vary. Researching available medical transport options and understanding their associated costs and limitations is essential for residents who rely on these services.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Rome:**

The "Overall Health Score" for 38768 is moderate, reflecting the challenges in healthcare access due to limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transit, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for many residents. While medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline, their availability and cost can be limiting factors.

For those considering moving to Rome, Mississippi, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and consider the availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the potential reliance on personal vehicles, and the availability of medical transport services is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Conclusion:**

Improving the "Overall Health Score" in 38768 requires a multifaceted approach. Investing in improved road infrastructure, exploring the feasibility of expanding public transportation options, and promoting the availability of ride-sharing services are crucial steps. Furthermore, increasing awareness of available medical transport services and ensuring their affordability and accessibility are essential. By addressing these challenges, the community can enhance healthcare access and improve the overall well-being of its residents. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is directly linked to the ability to access vital healthcare services, making it a critical factor in the health and vitality of any community.