39056, Clinton, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39056, Clinton, Mississippi is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.74 percent of residents in 39056 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Central with a distance of 5.83 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Clinton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39056)

Clinton, Mississippi, a city nestled in the heart of Hinds County, presents a unique tapestry of opportunity and challenge. Its burgeoning population, a testament to its appeal, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of its infrastructure, particularly concerning healthcare access. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 39056, providing an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the ease – or difficulty – of reaching essential medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, offering a crucial perspective for residents and those considering **moving to Clinton**.

The fundamental element of healthcare access is the ability to physically reach medical facilities. For residents of 39056, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates the accessibility of healthcare resources. Interstate 20 (I-20) serves as the major artery, providing swift connections to Jackson, the state's capital, and its concentration of hospitals and specialized clinics. However, relying solely on I-20 can be problematic during peak hours, when traffic congestion, particularly around the Clinton exits, can significantly extend travel times.

The secondary road network, consisting of US Highway 80, Clinton-Raymond Road, and numerous local thoroughfares, offers alternative routes. US Highway 80, a major east-west corridor, provides access to healthcare facilities in neighboring communities like Raymond and Jackson. Clinton-Raymond Road, as its name suggests, connects Clinton with Raymond, offering another pathway to healthcare options. These roads, while providing options, are often characterized by lower speed limits and potential for traffic delays, especially during school hours and rush hour.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in the Overall Health Score. The nearest hospitals, such as Baptist Medical Center in Jackson and Merit Health Central in Jackson, are generally accessible within a 20-30 minute drive under normal traffic conditions. However, this can easily double during peak hours. Clinics and urgent care facilities located within Clinton, such as those along Clinton Parkway and near the intersection of US Highway 80 and Clinton-Raymond Road, offer more immediate access, often within a 10-15 minute drive. The accessibility of specialized medical services, such as those for cardiology, oncology, and neurology, often necessitates travel to Jackson, increasing travel times and potentially impacting the Overall Health Score.

Public transportation options in Clinton, and indeed throughout much of Hinds County, are limited. The Jackson Transit System (JATRAN) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not extensive within Clinton. The primary routes serving the area, if any, are likely to be limited in their coverage and frequency. This is a significant factor impacting the Overall Health Score, particularly for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle, including senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The lack of robust public **transportation** significantly hinders **healthcare access**.

Furthermore, the accessibility of JATRAN routes for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transit systems provide accessible services. However, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, the presence of accessible bus stops, and the reliability of these services can vary. The Overall Health Score must account for the potential challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another mode of **transportation**. Their availability in Clinton is generally good, providing a convenient option for those who do not wish to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, ride-sharing costs can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly for frequent trips to healthcare facilities. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further exacerbate these costs. The reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during inclement weather or at off-peak hours, is also a consideration.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial service for those who cannot drive themselves or utilize other forms of transportation. Several medical transportation companies operate in the Jackson metropolitan area, including those that specialize in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically provide transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and offer door-to-door service. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant factor, and availability may be limited, especially for appointments scheduled with short notice.

The Overall Health Score for commute to healthcare in 39056 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the proximity to Jackson provides access to a wide range of healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provides some relief, but the costs and potential limitations of these services must be considered.

For individuals **moving to Clinton**, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. Careful consideration should be given to the location of healthcare facilities, the potential for traffic delays, and the availability of alternative transportation options. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the accessibility of JATRAN routes and the availability of medical transportation services.

The Overall Health Score for 39056 reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While the presence of local clinics and the proximity to Jackson's hospitals offer advantages, the limited public transportation options and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate careful planning and consideration. The score could be significantly improved by expanding public transit services, increasing the availability of affordable ride-sharing options, and ensuring the availability of accessible medical transportation services. The city's continued growth and development should prioritize improvements to the **transportation** infrastructure to ensure equitable **healthcare access** for all residents.