39167, Star, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39167, Star, Mississippi is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 39167 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ms State Hospital-Whitfield with a distance of 9.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39167 (Star, Mississippi)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital resources, and perhaps none is more crucial than healthcare. This report delves into the nuances of healthcare accessibility within ZIP Code 39167, the charming community of Star, Mississippi. We will assess the current state of **transportation** options, analyzing drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport provisions. This comprehensive evaluation will culminate in an "Overall Health Score," providing a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities facing residents seeking medical care. For those **moving to Star**, this information will be invaluable.

ZIP Code 39167, while offering the tranquility of rural living, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The nearest significant medical facilities are located outside the immediate vicinity, primarily in the larger towns and cities of Rankin County and the Jackson metropolitan area. This necessitates reliance on various modes of **transportation**, making the journey to care a significant factor in overall health outcomes.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary artery connecting Star to the broader healthcare landscape is Mississippi Highway 49. This two-lane highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the intersection with Interstate 20. Driving to the nearest hospitals, such as Merit Health Rankin in Brandon (approximately 15 miles) or the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson (approximately 30 miles), can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination.

Secondary roads, including Star Road and Old Brandon Road, offer alternative routes, though these are often less direct and may involve navigating rural landscapes with varying road conditions. These routes can be especially challenging during inclement weather, potentially delaying or even preventing access to medical care. The impact of these drive times is compounded for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Public Transit Prospects:**

Public transit options within ZIP Code 39167 are extremely limited. The primary public transit provider for the Jackson metropolitan area, the Jackson Transit System (JTRAN), does not currently extend its routes into Star. This severely restricts access for residents who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The absence of public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families.

While JTRAN does offer some routes with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and priority seating, these features are irrelevant to residents of Star due to the lack of service. The absence of a reliable and accessible public transit system represents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** in this community.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jackson metropolitan area, but their presence in Star is less consistent. Availability can be sporadic, and surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can significantly increase the cost of transportation. This unpredictability can make relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments a risky proposition.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care, are available in the region. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and Priority Ambulance offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, as well as ambulance services for emergencies. However, these services can be expensive, and the response time for NEMT can vary depending on demand and the availability of vehicles.

**The Overall Health Score:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 39167 is **moderate**. The primary strengths lie in the availability of personal vehicles and the presence of medical transport services. However, the significant weaknesses include the lack of public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the potential for lengthy drive times, especially during peak hours or in emergencies.

The absence of robust public transit options significantly disadvantages residents who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion increase the risk of delayed medical care. The cost and availability of ride-sharing services also pose challenges.

**Recommendations and Future Considerations:**

To improve the Overall Health Score, several key initiatives are recommended. First and foremost, exploring the feasibility of extending JTRAN routes into Star would be a transformative step. This would provide a reliable and affordable transportation option for a significant portion of the population.

Secondly, community partnerships with ride-sharing services could be established to improve availability and potentially offer subsidized fares for medical appointments. This could involve working with local healthcare providers to coordinate transportation for patients.

Thirdly, investing in public awareness campaigns to educate residents about available medical transport services and their eligibility criteria would be beneficial. Providing information about financial assistance programs for medical transportation could also help alleviate the financial burden on vulnerable populations.

Finally, ongoing monitoring of traffic patterns on Mississippi Highway 49 and other major roads is crucial. This data can inform traffic management strategies and identify areas where infrastructure improvements are needed to reduce congestion and improve **transportation** efficiency.

**Conclusion:**

Improving healthcare access in ZIP Code 39167 requires a multi-faceted approach. While the community benefits from the availability of personal vehicles and medical transport services, the lack of public transit and the challenges associated with drive times and ride-sharing services create significant barriers. By implementing the recommendations outlined in this report, the community can work towards a healthier future, ensuring that all residents have timely and equitable access to the medical care they need. For those considering **moving to Star**, understanding these **healthcare access** dynamics is crucial for informed decision-making. The Overall Health Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing progress and guiding future efforts to improve the health and well-being of the residents of Star, Mississippi.