39159, Rolling Fork, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39159, Rolling Fork, Mississippi is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.10 percent of residents in 39159 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sharkey Issaquena Community Hospital with a distance of 0.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39159

The Mississippi Delta, a region steeped in history and resilience, presents unique challenges to its residents, particularly concerning healthcare access. This analysis delves into the "Overall Health Score" for residents of Rolling Fork, Mississippi, ZIP code 39159, focusing on the critical aspect of commuting to healthcare. This score considers the availability, accessibility, and efficiency of various transportation options, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Rolling Fork or for current residents navigating their healthcare needs.

The very fabric of healthcare access in 39159 is interwoven with transportation. The ability to reach medical facilities, from routine check-ups to emergency care, is a fundamental determinant of health outcomes. This score assesses the existing infrastructure, the feasibility of various transportation methods, and the overall impact on the well-being of the community. The goal is to provide a clear and insightful evaluation, highlighting areas for improvement and advocating for solutions that can enhance the quality of life for all residents.

**Driving Times and Road Conditions:**

The primary mode of transportation in this rural setting is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The proximity of healthcare facilities is a significant factor. The nearest hospitals are located in nearby towns, requiring residents to navigate the roads. The primary route to these facilities involves traveling on **Highway 16**, which connects Rolling Fork to the larger towns of Yazoo City and Belzoni. Drive times to Yazoo City, where the **Yazoo County Hospital** is located, typically range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Another critical route involves traveling south on **Highway 61** to reach **Sharkey-Issaquena Community Hospital** in Rolling Fork. This route, while shorter in distance, can be affected by slower speeds due to the nature of the road and the location of the hospital in the center of the town. Further travel to more specialized facilities, such as those in Jackson, Mississippi, requires utilizing **Highway 61** and then connecting to **Interstate 20**. This journey can take upwards of two hours, presenting a significant challenge for individuals requiring specialized care or facing medical emergencies.

The condition of these roads is a critical consideration. While **Highway 16** and **Highway 61** are generally well-maintained, potholes and other road hazards can occasionally occur, especially after heavy rainfall. These conditions can increase travel times, potentially delaying access to care, and can pose safety risks, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions or mobility limitations. Regular maintenance and improvements to these roadways are essential to ensure safe and efficient transportation.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in 39159 are limited. The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) offers some demand-response transit services, but their availability in this specific area is restricted. These services typically require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, making them less ideal for urgent medical needs. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier for those without access to a personal vehicle, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents.

The absence of fixed-route bus services, with designated routes and schedules, further exacerbates the problem. The absence of a fixed-route bus system, with defined routes and schedules, means that individuals are reliant on alternative methods to reach their healthcare needs. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any existing public transit further compounds the problem. Ensuring the availability of accessible and affordable public transit options is crucial to improving healthcare access for all residents.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Rolling Fork. This absence leaves a significant gap in transportation options, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The reliance on family, friends, or neighbors for transportation can be unreliable and can place a burden on those providing assistance.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available, but they come with associated costs. Ambulance services are primarily used for emergency situations, while NEMT services are designed for non-emergency medical appointments. The availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may not always be readily accessible, especially in rural areas. The cost of these services can be a significant financial burden for individuals, potentially deterring them from seeking necessary medical care. Some medical transport brands operating in the area include **Rural Ambulance Service** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 39159 is negatively impacted by the limitations in transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access. The long drive times to specialized medical facilities and the potential for road hazards further exacerbate the challenges.

To improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance healthcare access for residents of Rolling Fork, several recommendations are crucial. First, investing in the expansion and improvement of public transit services is essential. This could include establishing a demand-response transit system with extended operating hours, providing ADA-compliant vehicles, and exploring partnerships with local organizations to provide transportation assistance.

Second, advocating for the expansion of ride-sharing services is vital. Working with ride-sharing companies to explore the feasibility of offering services in the area, potentially through partnerships with local businesses or healthcare providers, could significantly improve transportation options.

Third, strengthening medical transportation services is necessary. Ensuring the availability of affordable and accessible NEMT services, including exploring options for subsidized transportation for low-income residents, is critical.

Fourth, promoting community awareness and education is important. Educating residents about available transportation options, including the costs and eligibility requirements for various services, can empower them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Finally, fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is essential. Working together to identify transportation needs, develop innovative solutions, and advocate for policy changes can create a more sustainable and equitable healthcare system for the residents of Rolling Fork.

The success of these recommendations will be measured by improved health outcomes, increased access to care, and a greater sense of well-being for the residents of 39159. By addressing the challenges in transportation, we can pave the way for a healthier and more vibrant community, making Rolling Fork a more attractive place to live and thrive. The future of healthcare access in this area hinges on a commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and expanding the options available to residents.