39117, Morton, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39117, Morton, Mississippi is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.42 percent of residents in 39117 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Scott Regional with a distance of 1.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39117 (Morton, Mississippi)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Morton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39117) necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of their access to healthcare. A critical component of this access is the transportation infrastructure available, impacting the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This write-up will delve into the intricacies of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and analyze their impact on healthcare access for those considering moving to Morton.

The primary mode of transportation in Morton, as with much of rural Mississippi, is the personal vehicle. The town's layout and surrounding geography dictate a reliance on roadways for accessing healthcare. The main arteries for travel include Highway 14, which runs east-west through the heart of Morton, and Highway 35, a north-south route that intersects with Highway 14. These highways, along with county roads and local streets, form the essential network connecting residents to medical services.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in the overall health score. The nearest hospital, St. Dominic’s Hospital in Jackson, is approximately 45 miles west of Morton. Driving this distance, primarily via Highway 14 and Interstate 20, can take roughly an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are located closer, but the availability of specialized medical care often necessitates a longer commute.

The absence of a robust public transportation system presents a significant challenge to healthcare access in Morton. Currently, there are no regularly scheduled bus routes or fixed-route public transit options within the town or connecting it to neighboring cities. This lack of public transportation disproportionately affects individuals who cannot afford a personal vehicle, are unable to drive due to age or disability, or lack access to a reliable ride. This deficiency dramatically lowers the overall health score for those who depend on alternative transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative for transportation. However, the availability of these services in Morton is limited, and wait times can be unpredictable. This unreliability makes them a less viable option for urgent medical needs or scheduled appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for those with limited financial resources, further exacerbating healthcare access disparities.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a vital service. These services, often offered by private companies or healthcare providers, are essential for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. However, the availability of these services in Morton and the surrounding areas may be limited, and the cost can be substantial, adding another layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation.

The impact of these transportation limitations on the overall health score is significant. The extended drive times to hospitals and specialized care facilities, coupled with the lack of public transportation and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services, create barriers to timely and convenient healthcare access. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced adherence to treatment plans, and poorer health outcomes, especially for those with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention.

For individuals considering moving to Morton, the transportation landscape is a critical factor to consider when assessing the overall health score. Prospective residents should evaluate their healthcare needs and carefully consider the available transportation options to ensure they can access the medical services they require. Those who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility may find it challenging to access the healthcare they need in a timely and efficient manner.

The overall health score for residents of 39117 is diminished by the transportation limitations. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost and availability of medical transportation services all contribute to a lower score. While the reliance on personal vehicles offers a degree of flexibility, it excludes those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

Addressing these transportation challenges is crucial to improving the overall health score of the community. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, partnering with ride-sharing companies to increase service availability, and expanding medical transportation options are all potential solutions. These improvements would not only enhance healthcare access but also promote economic development and improve the quality of life for all residents.

The community of Morton, Mississippi, is a place of quiet charm and rural beauty. However, the transportation challenges present a clear hurdle to healthcare access. Improving transportation options is essential to ensure that all residents can receive the medical care they need. This enhancement is vital for building a healthier and more vibrant community, making Morton a more desirable place to live, work, and thrive. The future health of Morton hinges on the accessibility of its healthcare, and that accessibility is inextricably linked to the efficiency and availability of its transportation network.