39063, Durant, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39063, Durant, Mississippi is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.39 percent of residents in 39063 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holmes County Hospital And Clinics with a distance of 9.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Durant, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39063)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of Durant, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39063), focusing on the crucial element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We will delve into the realities of commuting to medical appointments, assessing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture for potential residents considering moving to Durant.

Durant, a small town nestled in Holmes County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The “Overall Health Score” considers the geographical isolation, limited public transportation, and the reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. This score aims to inform individuals about the practicalities of reaching healthcare providers, a critical factor in overall well-being.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of transportation in Durant is the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to various healthcare facilities is paramount. The closest major medical center is likely the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson, approximately 80 miles south. This journey, primarily via **Highway 12** and then **Interstate 55**, can take upwards of 1 hour and 30 minutes under ideal conditions. Traffic congestion, particularly around Jackson, can significantly extend this commute, potentially adding another 30 minutes to an hour, especially during peak hours.

Smaller clinics and general practitioners may be located in nearby towns like Lexington or Kosciusko. Lexington, about 15 miles west, is reachable via **Highway 12** and **Highway 17**, typically requiring a 20-30 minute drive. Kosciusko, approximately 30 miles east, is accessible via **Highway 12** and **Highway 14**, with a drive time of around 40-50 minutes. These shorter commutes offer more immediate access to care, but the availability of specialized services might be limited.

The condition of the roads is also a factor. While **Highway 12** and **Interstate 55** are generally well-maintained, secondary roads can be subject to potholes and other hazards, particularly after inclement weather. This can further impact drive times and the safety of travel, especially for those with mobility limitations or medical conditions. The distance and road conditions are vital considerations when evaluating healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Sparse Network**

Public transportation options in Durant and the surrounding area are extremely limited. There is no established bus system within the town itself. The nearest public transit options might be available in Jackson, necessitating a long and arduous journey. This lack of public transportation significantly disadvantages individuals who do not own a vehicle, those unable to drive, or those who prefer not to drive.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility within public transit is a critical concern. Given the limited public transit options, the availability of accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities is virtually nonexistent within Durant. This lack of accessibility further exacerbates the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in accessing healthcare. This is a significant factor when considering moving to Durant.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in Durant. Their presence is often dependent on driver density and demand, which can fluctuate. While these services might be available, wait times and fares could be significantly higher than in more populated areas. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is therefore questionable.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **MedStar Mobile Healthcare** might provide services to Durant residents, but these services often come at a considerable cost. The availability of these services is essential for those who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Durant, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39063), is negatively impacted by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the long distances to major medical facilities, the limited public transit options, and the potentially high cost of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to a lower score.

The score is also affected by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. While Durant may have some local clinics and general practitioners, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, and neurologists, is likely limited. This necessitates travel to larger medical centers, further increasing the burden on residents.

The score is also influenced by the socioeconomic factors of the community. Residents with lower incomes may struggle to afford transportation costs, impacting their ability to attend medical appointments. This disparity in access to healthcare can exacerbate existing health inequalities.

**Moving to Durant: A Transportation-Focused Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Durant, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is crucial. The ability to drive and the availability of a reliable vehicle are essential. Those without access to personal transportation may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare.

Potential residents should investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services in the area. Exploring options for carpooling or relying on family and friends for transportation assistance is also advisable. The overall quality of life in Durant is directly linked to the ability to access healthcare.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The "Overall Health Score" for Durant, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39063), reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare due to transportation limitations. While the town may offer a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, the geographical isolation and lack of public transit present significant obstacles.

Improving healthcare access in Durant requires a multi-faceted approach. This could include advocating for increased public transportation options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and subsidizing medical transport for low-income residents. Ultimately, the health and well-being of Durant residents depend on ensuring equitable access to essential healthcare services. This is a critical consideration for anyone moving to Durant. The health of a community is directly related to its ability to transport its citizens to healthcare.