39114, Mendenhall, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39114, Mendenhall, Mississippi is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.96 percent of residents in 39114 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Simpson General Hospital Cah with a distance of 3.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Mendenhall, MS (ZIP Code 39114)

This analysis evaluates the overall health score for residents of Mendenhall, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39114), focusing on the critical element of healthcare access, specifically the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount to assessing the health and well-being of this community, particularly for individuals considering moving to Mendenhall. The score considers various modes of transportation, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

Mendenhall, a town nestled in Simpson County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, while offering a slower pace of life, often translates to longer travel times to reach specialized medical care. This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access, offering insights for both current residents and those contemplating a move.

**Private Vehicle Transportation and Drive Times:**

The primary mode of transportation in Mendenhall, as with many rural communities, is the private vehicle. This reliance necessitates an assessment of drive times to various healthcare facilities. The primary roadways serving the area include Mississippi Highway 13 (MS-13) and Mississippi Highway 28 (MS-28), which are crucial arteries for navigating the region. Access to these highways is generally straightforward, but traffic flow can vary depending on the time of day and potential accidents.

The closest hospital, Simpson General Hospital, is conveniently located within Mendenhall. However, specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in surrounding cities. Jackson, the state capital, is a significant healthcare hub, approximately a 45- to 60-minute drive via MS-13 and Interstate 20 (I-20), depending on traffic conditions. This journey requires careful planning, especially for those with urgent medical needs.

Other healthcare options, such as clinics and specialist offices, are scattered throughout the region. Drive times to these facilities can vary significantly, ranging from a few minutes to over an hour, depending on the specific location and the patient's point of origin within the ZIP code. The condition of the roads, including potential potholes and limited lighting in some areas, can also impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit and its Limitations:**

Public transportation options in Mendenhall are limited. Simpson County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This scarcity presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive due to age or disability, or face financial constraints. The absence of reliable public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities.

While specific bus routes and schedules are unavailable for Mendenhall, it's crucial to acknowledge the absence of robust public transit. The lack of a well-developed system necessitates creative solutions and alternative transportation arrangements for those requiring healthcare services. This deficiency underscores the importance of exploring other available transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jackson metropolitan area and may extend their service areas to Mendenhall. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services provide a vital lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. Several companies offer these services, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for scheduled appointments. These services are essential for those who cannot access other transportation options, but they often come with associated costs and require advance booking.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, offering various levels of service. These include ambulance services, which are crucial for emergency situations, and NEMT providers, which cater to scheduled appointments. Specific brand names operating directly within Mendenhall are difficult to ascertain without further investigation. However, it is important to note that these services are available to residents of Mendenhall, ensuring that those with medical needs have access to transport.

**ADA Accessibility:**

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for any transportation system. While the availability of ADA-compliant transportation options in Mendenhall is limited due to the lack of public transit, ride-sharing services and medical transport providers are generally required to comply with ADA regulations. This means that these services must be accessible to individuals with disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, the overall health score for residents of Mendenhall (ZIP Code 39114) is moderate. While the presence of Simpson General Hospital within the town provides immediate access to some healthcare services, the limited availability of public transit, the potential for long drive times to specialized care, and the reliance on private vehicles create challenges for many residents.

For individuals considering moving to Mendenhall, it is essential to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should thoroughly investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The lack of public transit necessitates a proactive approach to securing transportation for medical appointments.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Several strategies could enhance healthcare access in Mendenhall. Investing in a demand-response public transit system, even a limited one, would significantly improve access for vulnerable populations. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Promoting awareness of medical transport services and providing financial assistance to low-income individuals for transportation costs would further improve healthcare access.

Furthermore, encouraging the development of telehealth services, which allow patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could reduce the need for travel. Expanding the availability of primary care physicians and specialists within Mendenhall would also shorten drive times and improve access to care.

In conclusion, while Mendenhall offers a welcoming community, the challenges related to transportation and healthcare access should be carefully considered. By addressing these issues, the community can improve the overall health and well-being of its residents, making it an even more attractive place to live. The availability of transportation options is a critical factor in determining the overall health score for any community, and Mendenhall is no exception.