39046, Canton, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39046, Canton, Mississippi is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.61 percent of residents in 39046 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Madison with a distance of 5.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39046 (Canton, Mississippi)

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. For residents of Canton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39046), this access is significantly influenced by the efficiency and availability of *transportation* options. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare accessibility, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive perspective for those *moving to Canton* or seeking to understand the community's healthcare landscape.

The primary factor impacting healthcare accessibility in 39046 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The vast majority of residents depend on driving to reach medical facilities. This dependence highlights the importance of understanding drive times, road conditions, and potential traffic bottlenecks. The primary arteries for *transportation* in and out of Canton are Interstate 55 (I-55) and Highway 16. I-55 offers relatively swift access to Jackson, the state's capital, where a wider range of specialized medical services are available. Highway 16, on the other hand, serves as a crucial east-west connector, providing access to local clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare providers.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within Canton itself are generally manageable, typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. However, accessing specialized care often necessitates travel to Jackson, approximately 30 to 45 minutes away via I-55. This travel time can be significantly extended during peak hours or due to accidents, potentially delaying critical care. The condition of the roads, while generally good, can be affected by weather events, further impacting travel times.

Public *transportation* options in Canton are limited. The primary provider is the Canton Area Transit System (CATS). However, CATS operates on a limited schedule and primarily serves local routes. The routes are not designed to specifically target healthcare facilities, and the frequency of service may not always align with medical appointment schedules. While CATS aims to provide ADA-compliant services, the overall coverage area and frequency of service may not adequately meet the needs of all residents, especially those with mobility limitations. The lack of robust public *transportation* presents a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for individuals who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Canton, but their reliability and availability can be variable. The number of drivers operating in the area may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in the evenings. This can result in longer wait times or even the inability to secure a ride, particularly for urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments or longer distances to Jackson.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers operate in the Canton area, offering services ranging from basic transportation to advanced life support. These services are often essential for patients needing to travel to and from appointments, hospitals, or rehabilitation facilities. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and the cost can be substantial, posing a financial burden for some residents.

The overall "Health Score" for *healthcare access* in 39046 is moderately impacted by the limitations in *transportation* options. While local healthcare facilities are generally accessible by car, the reliance on personal vehicles creates challenges for those without transportation or facing mobility issues. The limited public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to potential barriers to *healthcare access*.

For individuals *moving to Canton*, it's essential to consider the implications of *transportation* limitations. Those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare services. Prioritizing locations within close proximity to healthcare facilities or along public transit routes, if available, is crucial. Researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also recommended.

The city of Canton has the potential to improve its "Health Score" by investing in *transportation* infrastructure and services. Expanding the CATS network, increasing service frequency, and improving ADA accessibility would significantly enhance *healthcare access* for all residents. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transport services and providing financial assistance for those in need could help bridge the gap in *healthcare access*.

The effectiveness of the healthcare system in Canton is directly tied to the ease with which residents can reach medical care. The ability to navigate the *transportation* landscape, whether by car, public transit, or other means, is a critical determinant of health outcomes. While Canton offers a range of healthcare providers, the challenges associated with *transportation* underscore the need for ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need. This is especially important for those *moving to Canton* who are seeking to establish a healthy lifestyle.