39301, Meridian, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39301, Meridian, Mississippi is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.25 percent of residents in 39301 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Anderson Regional Medical Center South Campus with a distance of 3.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39301 (Meridian, Mississippi)

The overall health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. In Meridian, Mississippi, specifically within ZIP Code 39301, this access is significantly shaped by the transportation options available. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the various modes of transportation residents utilize to reach essential medical services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, painting a detailed picture of the challenges and opportunities that impact healthcare access for those living in this community. Considering **moving to Meridian**? Understanding these nuances is critical.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 39301 is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The vast majority of residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. This reliance highlights the importance of well-maintained roads and manageable commute times. The major thoroughfare serving the area is Interstate 20 (I-20), which provides relatively swift access to larger medical facilities, including those in the city center. However, relying solely on I-20 can be problematic during peak hours.

Other significant roadways include US Highway 11, US Highway 80, and MS Highway 19. These routes provide access to various clinics, doctor's offices, and urgent care facilities scattered throughout the city and surrounding areas. Drive times to these facilities vary considerably depending on the specific location within 39301 and the destination. A trip to a specialist on the east side of town might take 15-20 minutes, while a visit to a hospital on the west side could stretch to 30 minutes or more, especially during rush hour.

The condition of the roads themselves also plays a role. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate lighting can exacerbate the challenges faced by those with mobility issues or those driving older vehicles. Furthermore, the cost of vehicle ownership, including gas, maintenance, and insurance, presents a financial barrier to healthcare access for some residents. This is a critical consideration when assessing the overall health score.

Public transportation, in the form of the Meridian Transit System (MTS), offers an alternative to driving. However, the MTS system has limitations. While the MTS provides routes throughout the city, the frequency of service and the geographic coverage are not always ideal for healthcare access. Many routes operate on limited schedules, especially on weekends and evenings, which can make it difficult for residents to attend appointments outside of standard business hours.

The MTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial aspect of ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents. However, the routes may not always directly serve medical facilities, requiring transfers and potentially increasing travel time. The efficiency and reach of the MTS are critical factors influencing the **transportation** component of the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another option, though their availability in Meridian is subject to demand and driver availability. The cost of these services can be prohibitive for some, particularly those with limited incomes. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing can be unpredictable, especially during inclement weather or at off-peak hours. While ride-sharing provides a valuable service, it cannot be considered a primary mode of **healthcare access** for all residents.

Specialized medical transport services are available for individuals with specific needs. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or private providers, are designed to transport patients who require medical assistance during transit. However, these services are typically reserved for emergencies or for patients with significant mobility limitations. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, representing a significant financial burden.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 39301 is therefore a complex calculation. While the presence of major roadways like I-20 provides relatively quick access to larger medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing, and the expense of medical transport all contribute to a mixed picture.

For those considering **moving to Meridian**, understanding these factors is paramount. The ability to reliably access healthcare is a fundamental component of overall well-being. Individuals with mobility limitations, limited incomes, or those without access to a personal vehicle may face significant challenges in accessing the medical care they need.

The overall health score for 39301 is therefore not solely dependent on the presence of medical facilities, but also on the ease and affordability with which residents can reach those facilities. The development of a more robust public transportation system, the expansion of ride-sharing options, and the provision of financial assistance for transportation costs could significantly improve the overall health score for this community.

Furthermore, initiatives that promote the availability of healthcare services within the 39301 ZIP code itself, such as the establishment of more clinics or the expansion of telehealth options, would also contribute to improved access. Ultimately, a comprehensive approach that addresses both the transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare services is necessary to ensure that all residents of 39301 have the opportunity to live long, healthy lives. The health score is a dynamic measure, and ongoing efforts to improve access are essential.