38851, Houston, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 38851, Houston, Mississippi is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.88 percent of residents in 38851 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Memorial Hospital - Calhoun, Inc. with a distance of 18.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 38851

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone, especially when choosing a new place to call home. This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP code 38851, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services, considering various transportation options. This score encompasses drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape. This information is particularly relevant for individuals contemplating moving to Houston, as it provides a comparative perspective on healthcare accessibility.

ZIP code 38851, encompassing the town of Iuka, Mississippi, presents a unique challenge in healthcare access. Being a rural area, the availability of immediate healthcare options is naturally limited compared to urban centers. The overall health score for this ZIP code reflects this reality, highlighting the importance of strategic planning when it comes to medical needs.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 38851 is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in determining the overall health score. The closest hospitals are in Corinth, Mississippi, approximately 25 miles away, and in Florence, Alabama, roughly 40 miles away.

Traveling to Corinth typically involves navigating **Highway 72** east. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially extending drive times. The journey offers a relatively straightforward path, making it a dependable option for routine appointments and less urgent medical needs.

For more specialized care, or in the event of an emergency, the drive to Florence, Alabama, is a common alternative. This route utilizes **Highway 72** west, often requiring a transfer to **Highway 45** south. This journey is longer, meaning a potentially greater delay in accessing critical care. The condition of the roads is generally good, but weather conditions can significantly impact travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options in 38851 are extremely limited, significantly impacting the overall health score. There is no established public bus system within the immediate vicinity. This lack of public transportation poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or cannot afford the costs associated with private transportation.

The absence of public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions, especially for those with mobility limitations. The lack of accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts or designated seating, further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. The overall health score is negatively impacted by this lack of readily available public transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the area, but their frequency and reliability are not guaranteed. Their presence is often dependent on driver availability, which can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. This uncertainty impacts the overall health score, as it reduces the dependability of ride-sharing as a viable transportation option.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), play a crucial role in bridging the healthcare access gap. These services are essential for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions or disabilities.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering services ranging from basic transportation to specialized medical assistance. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access for some residents. The availability of NEMT services is a positive factor, but the cost and potential limitations on service areas impact the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment:**

The overall health score for 38851 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While drive times to nearby hospitals are manageable for routine care, the lack of public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create challenges for some residents. The availability of medical transport services provides a vital lifeline, but the associated costs and potential limitations must be considered.

The score is further influenced by the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance. The concentration of healthcare providers in Corinth and Florence necessitates travel, impacting the overall accessibility. The overall health score takes into account the distance to these facilities and the availability of transportation options.

**Considering Moving to Houston:**

For individuals considering moving to Houston, this analysis provides a comparative perspective. Houston, being a major metropolitan area, boasts a significantly higher concentration of healthcare facilities and a more robust public transportation system. The availability of ride-sharing services is also more reliable.

The overall health score in Houston would be considerably higher than in 38851, reflecting the greater ease of access to healthcare services. Individuals moving to Houston would likely experience a significant improvement in healthcare accessibility compared to the limitations present in a rural setting.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for 38851 is influenced by the geographical location, the availability of transportation options, and the proximity of healthcare facilities. While residents have access to healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services create challenges. The availability of medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but the cost and potential limitations must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Houston, this analysis underscores the benefits of relocating to a major metropolitan area with a more comprehensive healthcare infrastructure. The overall health score in Houston would be significantly higher, reflecting the enhanced accessibility and a broader range of healthcare options. Choosing a new location is a complex decision, and understanding the nuances of healthcare access is a critical factor in making an informed choice.