39170, Terry, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39170, Terry, Mississippi is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.31 percent of residents in 39170 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Central with a distance of 11.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. In Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170), this access is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" for this area necessitates a detailed examination of the commute to healthcare facilities, considering factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering **moving to Terry**, Mississippi, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the current **transportation** landscape as it relates to **healthcare access**.

The primary determinant of healthcare accessibility in Terry is the reliance on personal vehicles. The majority of residents depend on driving to reach medical appointments, making drive times a crucial factor. The town is strategically positioned near major roadways, including Interstate 55 (I-55), which provides a direct north-south route. However, the specific healthcare facilities serving Terry are primarily located in Jackson, the state capital, or the surrounding communities.

The drive to Jackson, typically undertaken via I-55, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The primary healthcare destinations include the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), a comprehensive facility offering a wide array of specialties, and several private hospitals and clinics. The journey to these facilities during peak hours, such as morning and evening commutes, can be significantly longer, potentially impacting the timeliness of medical care.

Beyond Jackson, residents may need to travel to other towns for specialized care. For instance, a drive to Flowood, accessible via the I-20 and the Lakeland Drive, might be necessary for certain medical services. Similarly, a trip to Byram, located to the south, could be required for specific specialist appointments. These journeys, while generally shorter than the Jackson commute, still add to the time and effort required to receive healthcare.

Public **transportation** options in Terry and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary public transit system serving the Jackson metropolitan area is the Jackson Transit System (JTRAN). However, JTRAN’s routes do not extend directly into Terry. Therefore, residents relying on public transit would need to find alternative means to reach a JTRAN stop, potentially adding significant travel time and complexity to their healthcare journeys.

The absence of direct public transit routes poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. This lack of accessibility can create a barrier to timely and consistent healthcare, negatively impacting the overall health score of the community. Moreover, the lack of ADA-compliant features on the limited public transit options further exacerbates the challenges for those with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option, but their availability and affordability can vary. While these services are generally present in the Jackson metropolitan area, their presence in Terry might be less consistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in response to urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical **transportation** services specifically designed for healthcare appointments are available, but their scope and coverage can be limited. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local medical transport providers offer services for non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, making them less suitable for urgent or unexpected medical needs.

The availability of medical **transportation** also depends on the patient's insurance coverage. Some insurance plans may cover the cost of medical transport, while others may require patients to pay out-of-pocket. This financial burden can further limit **healthcare access**, particularly for those with chronic conditions or frequent medical appointments.

The overall health score in Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170), is therefore significantly influenced by the challenges associated with **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services create a complex landscape.

The long drive times to Jackson, compounded by traffic congestion, can delay access to critical medical care. The absence of direct public transit routes isolates vulnerable populations and hinders their ability to receive timely treatment. The fluctuating availability and cost of ride-sharing services add another layer of uncertainty to healthcare access. The limited coverage and potential costs of medical **transportation** services further complicate the equation.

The development of strategies to improve **healthcare access** in Terry is crucial. These strategies should focus on enhancing **transportation** options and addressing the specific needs of the community. This could include advocating for the expansion of JTRAN routes to serve Terry, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, and increasing the availability of medical **transportation** services.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services can help bridge the gap in **healthcare access** by allowing residents to consult with healthcare providers remotely. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and the management of chronic conditions.

The "Overall Health Score" for Terry, Mississippi, can be improved by fostering a community that prioritizes healthcare access. This requires a multi-faceted approach that includes improving **transportation** infrastructure, expanding access to healthcare providers, and promoting innovative solutions like telehealth. For those considering **moving to Terry**, understanding these factors is essential to making informed decisions about their health and well-being.