38838, Dennis, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38838, Dennis, Mississippi is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.11 percent of residents in 38838 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tishomingo Health Services Inc with a distance of 17.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38838 (Dennis, Mississippi)

Navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access is crucial for overall well-being. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP Code 38838 (Dennis, Mississippi), focusing on the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for current and prospective residents, particularly those considering **moving to Dennis**.

The “Overall Health Score” is not a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by the local **healthcare access** infrastructure. The score aims to highlight areas of strength and weakness, informing residents about the practical realities of receiving medical care in Dennis.

**Drive Times: The Cornerstone of Healthcare Access**

For most residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare. This makes drive times a critical factor in our assessment. Dennis, a rural community, offers a unique challenge, with limited options. The nearest major medical facilities are located in larger towns and cities.

To reach the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, a drive of approximately 40 miles, residents would likely use Mississippi Highway 25 (MS-25) south. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic during peak hours, potentially increasing travel time. The journey typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Alternatively, residents might consider the drive north on MS-25 to reach Iuka, Mississippi, where they might find smaller clinics or urgent care facilities. This drive is shorter, perhaps 15-20 minutes, offering quicker access for minor medical needs. However, the range of services available in Iuka is limited compared to Tupelo.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further. Jackson, Mississippi, approximately 180 miles south, or Memphis, Tennessee, roughly 120 miles north, offer a wider array of medical specialists and hospitals. However, these journeys involve considerable travel time, potentially exceeding two to three hours, making them less practical for urgent medical needs. These long distances emphasize the importance of careful planning and potentially, the need for alternative **transportation** options.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reality**

Public transit options in Dennis and the surrounding area are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the ZIP Code. The absence of public transit significantly restricts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The lack of public transit also impacts the ability to attend follow-up appointments, physical therapy sessions, or other routine medical care. This limitation underscores the need for alternative **transportation** solutions, particularly for residents who cannot drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

The availability of ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, in Dennis is likely limited. These services often struggle to establish a presence in rural areas due to low demand and logistical challenges. Residents should not rely on ride-sharing as a primary mode of **transportation** to medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers may offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services can transport patients to and from medical appointments using specialized vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services often come at a significant cost, potentially creating a financial barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of **transportation** options is paramount. The absence of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services highlight the importance of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant medical transport services. Residents with disabilities should thoroughly investigate the availability and accessibility features of any medical transport service they consider. This includes ensuring vehicles are equipped with ramps or lifts, and that drivers are trained to assist individuals with mobility challenges.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The “Overall Health Score” for **healthcare access** in Dennis, Mississippi (38838) is significantly impacted by the rural nature of the community. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost of medical transport services present challenges for residents.

The distance to major medical facilities in Tupelo, Jackson, or Memphis necessitates careful planning and consideration of travel time. The absence of readily available ride-sharing services and the limited public transit options place a greater burden on those without personal vehicles.

**Moving to Dennis: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering **moving to Dennis**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is essential. Prospective residents should carefully consider the distance to medical facilities, the availability of reliable **transportation**, and the potential costs associated with medical transport services.

Those with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should give extra thought to the logistics of accessing care. Exploring options for telehealth appointments, seeking out local clinics, and investigating medical transport services are crucial steps.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The “Overall Health Score” for **healthcare access** in Dennis, Mississippi (38838) reflects a landscape characterized by both challenges and opportunities. While the rural setting presents limitations, residents can navigate these challenges by planning their medical care, exploring alternative **transportation** options, and advocating for improved **healthcare access** within the community. The ability to adapt and find solutions is key to ensuring the well-being of all residents.