39202, Jackson, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39202, Jackson, Mississippi is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.89 percent of residents in 39202 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 0.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mississippi Baptist Medical Center with a distance of 0.14 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39202**

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Jackson, Mississippi's 39202 ZIP code, specifically focusing on the critical factor of transportation to healthcare facilities. Access to timely and reliable healthcare is a cornerstone of community well-being, and this assessment examines the available transportation options, their efficiency, and their potential impact on residents' health outcomes. Understanding the challenges and opportunities within this crucial aspect of healthcare access is vital for informed decision-making, whether one is a current resident or considering moving to Jackson.

The 39202 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of central Jackson, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area's demographics, including a substantial population of senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, necessitate a close examination of transportation options that cater to diverse needs. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, evaluating their accessibility, affordability, and overall convenience. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape and its influence on the health of 39202 residents.

**Drive Times and Road Network**

The primary mode of transportation for many in 39202 is personal vehicles. The road network, including major arteries like Interstate 55 (I-55) and Interstate 20 (I-20), plays a crucial role in healthcare access. The proximity of these interstates offers relatively quick access to major hospitals and medical centers, particularly those located on the outskirts of the city. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying critical medical care.

Traveling from 39202 to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), a major healthcare provider, typically involves navigating surface streets such as North State Street and Woodrow Wilson Avenue, or utilizing I-55. During off-peak hours, the drive might take around 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 20-30 minutes, or even longer, depending on traffic incidents. Similarly, access to Baptist Medical Center, another major facility, often involves traveling along Lakeland Drive or using I-55, with similar time variations depending on traffic conditions.

The condition of the roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also affect travel times and the comfort of patients, especially those with mobility issues. Adequate maintenance and efficient traffic management are essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare facilities for residents of 39202. The ease of navigation and the availability of clear signage also contribute to a smoother and less stressful experience, particularly for individuals unfamiliar with the area or those experiencing a medical emergency.

**Public Transit: The JATRAN System**

The Jackson Transit System (JATRAN) provides public transportation services within the city, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. Several JATRAN routes serve the 39202 area, providing access to various healthcare facilities. However, the system's effectiveness in facilitating healthcare access is subject to several limitations.

JATRAN routes, such as the 1-North State Street and the 2-West Jackson routes, offer connections to medical facilities. The buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially making it difficult for residents to reach appointments or access urgent care.

The travel times on JATRAN buses are often longer than those of personal vehicles due to route configurations and traffic conditions. Transfers between routes can also add to the overall travel time, making it less convenient for some individuals. Furthermore, the availability of bus stops within close proximity to healthcare facilities varies, requiring some passengers to walk a considerable distance, which can be challenging for those with mobility limitations.

The affordability of JATRAN fares is a significant advantage for low-income residents. However, the system's overall efficiency and convenience need improvement to enhance its effectiveness in supporting healthcare access for the 39202 community.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option for residents of 39202. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering greater flexibility and convenience compared to public transit. The availability of ride-sharing services in Jackson is generally good, and they can be a viable option for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive.

The cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on demand, time of day, and distance traveled. While often more expensive than public transit, ride-sharing can be a reasonable alternative, especially for those with urgent medical needs or those who require door-to-door service. However, the reliability of ride-sharing services can be affected by driver availability and traffic conditions.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services are essential for transporting patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical conditions that prevent them from using other forms of transportation.

Several medical transport providers operate in the Jackson area, including AMR (American Medical Response) for emergency services and various NEMT providers that transport patients to appointments. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility criteria. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the service provided and the patient's insurance coverage.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Based on the assessment of transportation options in 39202, the overall health score is moderate. While the area benefits from access to major highways, ride-sharing, and medical transport, the limitations of public transit, traffic congestion, and the potential for high transportation costs present challenges to healthcare access.

To improve the health score, several recommendations can be made. Enhancing the JATRAN system by increasing service frequency, extending operating hours, and optimizing route configurations would improve healthcare access. Investing in road maintenance and traffic management systems would reduce drive times and improve the safety of travel. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services, particularly for those with limited mobility, can also be beneficial.

Further, expanding the availability of affordable medical transport options, especially for low-income residents and those with disabilities, is crucial. Community outreach programs that provide information about available transportation resources and offer assistance with booking appointments can also play a vital role.

For individuals considering moving to Jackson, particularly to the 39202 area, it is essential to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to healthcare. While the city offers a range of options, understanding the limitations and potential challenges is critical for ensuring their health and well-being. By addressing these issues, Jackson can improve healthcare access and create a healthier community for all its residents.