39213, Jackson, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39213, Jackson, Mississippi is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.15 percent of residents in 39213 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Mississippi Med Center with a distance of 3.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 39213

Moving to Jackson, Mississippi, and specifically residing within the 39213 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for navigating the critical aspect of healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the multifaceted challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure in relation to reaching medical facilities. It dives into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing/medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and prospective movers.

The health score is not a numerical grade but a qualitative evaluation reflecting the ease and efficiency with which individuals can access necessary medical care. It acknowledges that healthcare access is a crucial determinant of overall well-being, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility. Factors such as travel time, transportation costs, and the availability of accessible options are all carefully considered.

**Driving Times and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation in this area remains the personal vehicle. The road network, however, presents both advantages and disadvantages. Residents of 39213 benefit from access to major thoroughfares like Interstate 55 (I-55) and Interstate 20 (I-20), providing relatively quick routes to several major hospitals and medical centers. For instance, a drive to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), a leading healthcare provider, via I-55 South can typically take between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Access to smaller, local clinics and specialized practices might involve navigating surface streets like Northside Drive, County Line Road, and Old Canton Road. These routes, while often shorter in distance, can be subject to congestion, particularly during peak hours. The presence of numerous traffic lights and intersections can significantly increase travel times, potentially adding stress and delaying access to urgent care.

The condition of the roads themselves also influences the overall health score. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate lighting, particularly in certain areas, can pose challenges for drivers, especially those with physical limitations. These infrastructural issues can affect the safety and comfort of the journey, especially for those with medical conditions that require a smooth and stable ride.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Resource:**

Public transportation in Jackson, including the 39213 ZIP code, is a mixed bag regarding healthcare access. The Jackson Transit System (JATRAN) offers bus routes that traverse the area, but their coverage and frequency are limited. While JATRAN provides some level of transportation, it’s not designed for optimal healthcare access.

Several routes, such as Route 1 (Northside Drive), Route 2 (Lakeland Drive), and Route 4 (Medgar Evers Blvd), offer potential connections to medical facilities, but the travel times can be significantly longer compared to driving. Transfers between routes are often necessary, further extending the journey.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on JATRAN buses is a crucial factor. While the system strives to provide accessible services, the reliability and availability of these features can vary. This can pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility impairments, making it difficult for them to access medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Jackson and offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to medical facilities, potentially reducing travel times and increasing convenience. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services, offered by companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and others, typically provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility issues or other medical needs. While these services can be invaluable, they are often more expensive than standard transportation options and may require advance booking.

The availability and responsiveness of ride-sharing and medical transport services can also vary depending on the time of day, the location within the 39213 ZIP code, and the overall demand. This can create uncertainty and potentially delay access to healthcare, especially during emergencies.

**The Overall Health Score: A Complex Equation:**

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 39213 is moderate. While the presence of major highways like I-55 and I-20 offers relatively quick access to major medical centers, the limitations of public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing, and the potential challenges with road conditions create significant hurdles.

The score is also impacted by the socioeconomic factors prevalent in the area. Individuals with limited financial resources may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to the cost of transportation. The availability of affordable and reliable transportation options is therefore crucial to improving the overall health score.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Improving healthcare access in 39213 requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in public transportation, including expanding routes, increasing frequency, and ensuring ADA compliance, is essential. Promoting ride-sharing programs and exploring partnerships with medical transport providers can also help bridge the transportation gap.

Furthermore, the local authorities should prioritize road maintenance and improvements to enhance safety and comfort. Encouraging the development of medical facilities within the 39213 ZIP code, or at least closer to the area, would also reduce travel times and improve healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Jackson, particularly to the 39213 ZIP code, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and financial resources is crucial. Understanding the limitations of public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing, and the potential challenges of driving will help them make informed decisions and plan for their healthcare needs. The overall health score is a dynamic concept. It can improve with strategic investments and community efforts that prioritize accessible and affordable transportation options for all residents.