39232, Flowood, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39232, Flowood, Mississippi is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.25 percent of residents in 39232 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brentwood Behavioral Healthcare Of Ms with a distance of 0.60 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39232 (Flowood, Mississippi)**

The pursuit of optimal well-being requires more than just access to medical professionals; it demands efficient and reliable transportation to those critical appointments. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 39232, the heart of Flowood, Mississippi, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities and assigning an overall health score based on the ease of reaching them. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to Flowood.

Flowood, a rapidly growing suburb of Jackson, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. While the area boasts a growing population and increasing amenities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate a thorough understanding of the transportation infrastructure. This assessment aims to provide clarity, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation in Flowood is the personal vehicle. The area's road network, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly along major arteries. The primary thoroughfares impacting healthcare access include Lakeland Drive, which serves as a vital east-west corridor, and the I-20 interstate, providing rapid access to facilities in Jackson and surrounding areas.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the specific location and the time of day. The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson, a major regional medical center, is typically accessible within a 20-30 minute drive via I-20, traffic permitting. Closer facilities, such as the Merit Health River Oaks Hospital in Flowood, are generally accessible within 5-10 minutes. However, traffic on Lakeland Drive, especially near the intersection with Old Brandon Road, can significantly impact these times.

Furthermore, the condition of the roads themselves plays a crucial role. Potholes, construction zones, and accidents can all contribute to delays, impacting timely healthcare access. Understanding these factors is essential for residents, especially those with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments. The ease of navigating these roads is a significant factor in determining the overall health score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

The availability of public transit in Flowood is limited. The Jackson Transit System (JTRAN) provides bus service to some areas, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. The primary routes serving the area are the Route 16 (Lakeland Drive) and Route 17 (Old Brandon Road). However, these routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, necessitating transfers or longer travel times.

The JTRAN system does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to public transportation. However, the limited route coverage and the potential for lengthy travel times can pose challenges for those relying on public transit for healthcare access. The lack of a robust public transportation system significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Flowood and offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited demand. Ride-sharing provides a degree of flexibility, but it is not always a reliable or affordable option for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and various private ambulance companies, are available for individuals requiring specialized transportation. These services are typically reserved for those with medical needs that prevent them from driving or using other forms of transportation. While these services are crucial for specific populations, they are often expensive and require prior arrangements.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Based on the assessment of transportation options, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 39232 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic congestion all contribute to this score. While ride-sharing services offer some flexibility, they are not a guaranteed solution.

The ease of moving to Flowood is often cited as a positive attribute. However, individuals considering a move to this area, particularly those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility, should carefully evaluate their transportation options. Proximity to healthcare facilities is a crucial factor, and the ability to navigate the road network efficiently is paramount.

To improve the overall health score, several recommendations are proposed. First, expanding JTRAN's route coverage and increasing the frequency of service, especially along major corridors like Lakeland Drive, would significantly improve healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Second, promoting and subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could provide a more affordable and reliable alternative.

Furthermore, the city of Flowood could partner with healthcare providers to offer transportation assistance programs, such as shuttle services or discounted ride-sharing options. Finally, improving traffic management along major roads and addressing road maintenance issues would minimize delays and improve the overall efficiency of healthcare access.

**Conclusion**

Access to healthcare in Flowood, Mississippi, presents a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. While the area boasts a growing number of healthcare facilities, the transportation infrastructure requires careful consideration. The overall health score reflects the need for improved public transit, expanded ride-sharing options, and proactive measures to mitigate traffic congestion. By addressing these issues, Flowood can enhance healthcare access for all residents, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community. The ease of moving to Flowood is a factor, but the transportation considerations must be weighed carefully.