39059, Crystal Springs, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39059, Crystal Springs, Mississippi is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.23 percent of residents in 39059 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Central with a distance of 21.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39059

Crystal Springs, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39059), presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, heavily influenced by transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare access. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents, considering the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical facilities. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to paint a comprehensive picture for anyone considering moving to Crystal Springs.

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access medical care. Factors such as travel time, mode of transportation, and the availability of specialized services all play crucial roles in determining the overall health score. For Crystal Springs, the score reflects the specific challenges and advantages presented by its location and infrastructure. This score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment, influenced by ongoing developments in transportation and healthcare.

**Drive Time and Roadways:**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Crystal Springs is the automobile. The town is strategically positioned at the intersection of Interstate 55 (I-55), a major north-south artery, and U.S. Highway 51, which runs parallel to I-55. These roadways are the lifelines for residents seeking medical attention. Drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are therefore heavily dependent on these routes.

For routine appointments and general care, residents can typically reach the Copiah County Medical Center in Hazlehurst within a 20-30 minute drive. This journey involves navigating U.S. Highway 51 south or taking I-55 south to exit 65. However, accessing more specialized care often necessitates travel to Jackson, the state capital, approximately 40-60 minutes north via I-55. This journey can be significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours.

The condition of the roads, including the presence of potholes and ongoing construction projects, can also affect travel times. While I-55 generally provides a smooth and efficient route, local roads like U.S. Highway 51 may present challenges, especially during inclement weather. These factors are considered in the overall health score, as they directly impact the reliability of transportation.

**Public Transit and Accessibility:**

Public transportation options in Crystal Springs are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. There is no established public bus system within the town itself. The availability of public transit is a key factor in the overall health score, as it directly impacts the ability of residents without cars to reach medical facilities.

The lack of a robust public transit system necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transportation. While this limits options for some, the area is not without resources. The absence of a local bus service emphasizes the importance of private transportation and ride-sharing options for those who cannot drive.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for any public transit system. The absence of such a system in Crystal Springs, therefore, underscores the need for alternative solutions to ensure healthcare access for individuals with disabilities. This absence lowers the overall health score, highlighting the need for increased transportation options for all residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Crystal Springs, offering an alternative to private vehicles and public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The reliance on ride-sharing is a factor in the overall health score, as it directly impacts the affordability and accessibility of transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another crucial component of healthcare access. Several medical transport providers operate in the area, offering specialized services for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services can be particularly valuable for those who are unable to drive or lack access to ride-sharing services.

The availability of medical transportation is a positive factor in the overall health score, as it provides a vital link between patients and healthcare providers. However, the cost and availability of these services can also influence the score, as they may not be accessible to all residents.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for residents of Crystal Springs (39059) is moderately impacted by the challenges and advantages of its transportation and healthcare access landscape. The primary advantage is the proximity of the Copiah County Medical Center, offering basic healthcare services within a reasonable drive time. However, the need to travel to Jackson for specialized care, coupled with limited public transit options, presents challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, but their cost and availability can vary. The overall health score is therefore influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including drive times, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Crystal Springs offers a unique opportunity to assess the overall health of a community. While the town benefits from its proximity to major roadways, the limited public transit options and the need to travel to Jackson for specialized care present challenges. The overall health score for Crystal Springs is therefore moderate, reflecting the need for improvements in transportation infrastructure and healthcare access.

The score is not a static measure but is subject to change as new developments in transportation and healthcare emerge. The ongoing efforts to improve road conditions, the potential expansion of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation all play crucial roles in shaping the overall health score. The health of the community is directly linked to its ability to access medical care, and the score reflects the specific challenges and advantages presented by its location and infrastructure.