39179, Vaughan, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39179, Vaughan, Mississippi is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.48 percent of residents in 39179 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Madison with a distance of 16.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39179 (Vaughan, Mississippi)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Vaughan, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39179) necessitates a deep dive into the critical element of healthcare access. This analysis considers the various modes of transportation available, evaluating their efficiency, accessibility, and overall impact on a resident's ability to reach essential medical services. The ability to easily and reliably commute to healthcare is a significant factor in determining a community's health and well-being. For those considering moving to Vaughan, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial.

The primary mode of transportation in Vaughan is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The area is predominantly rural, with limited public transportation infrastructure. Residents rely heavily on their cars to navigate the surrounding roads and highways. The major thoroughfare connecting Vaughan to larger population centers and healthcare facilities is **Highway 433**. This road provides access to the north and south, connecting to the larger **Highway 80**, which is a vital artery for accessing medical facilities in Jackson, Mississippi.

Drive times to healthcare providers are a critical factor in this assessment. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in Jackson, approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. This drive time can be significantly extended during peak hours or due to unforeseen circumstances, such as accidents or inclement weather. For residents requiring routine check-ups, specialist appointments, or emergency care, this travel time can be a considerable burden, potentially delaying or hindering access to timely medical attention.

Public transportation options in Vaughan and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system within the immediate vicinity. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, including the elderly, low-income residents, and those with disabilities. The absence of accessible public transportation creates a substantial barrier to healthcare, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments and, consequently, poorer health outcomes.

While traditional public transportation is scarce, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a potential alternative. However, the availability of these services in Vaughan is often unpredictable and limited. Ride-share availability is subject to driver density and demand, which may be low in this rural area. Residents may experience difficulty securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled at inconvenient times. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for those with limited incomes, further impacting their ability to access healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. Companies such as **CareRide** and **MedTrans** offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. While these services provide a valuable lifeline, they are typically pre-booked, requiring advanced planning. The cost of NEMT services can also be substantial, adding to the financial strain on patients.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities is another crucial consideration. The availability of ramps, elevators, and other ADA-compliant features at healthcare facilities is essential for individuals with disabilities. While most modern medical facilities are designed to meet these standards, the distance and transportation challenges can still pose significant hurdles. The lack of accessible transportation options can render even the most accessible facilities effectively inaccessible for some residents.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Vaughan, Mississippi, is negatively impacted by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation services all contribute to the challenges residents face in accessing healthcare. These factors can lead to delayed or missed appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Vaughan, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who do not own a vehicle or have mobility limitations should carefully consider the challenges they may face in accessing healthcare. Exploring the availability and cost of medical transportation services and assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities are crucial steps in making an informed decision.

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. The limitations in transportation infrastructure in Vaughan create a significant barrier to healthcare access, potentially impacting the health outcomes of its residents. Addressing these transportation challenges through community initiatives, expanded transportation options, and improved accessibility to healthcare facilities is essential to improving the overall health score of Vaughan and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to live long and healthy lives.