39335, Lauderdale, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39335, Lauderdale, Mississippi is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.89 percent of residents in 39335 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical Foundation Inc with a distance of 14.22 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39335

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and in ZIP Code 39335, the journey to receive care requires careful consideration. This assessment delves into the intricacies of transportation options available, analyzing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport provisions. Understanding these factors is essential for residents and those considering **moving to Lauderdale**, ensuring they can effectively access the medical attention they need. We aim to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of **transportation** to healthcare facilities.

The primary concern for residents in 39335 is the relative remoteness of the area. This impacts the availability and accessibility of healthcare services, particularly for those without personal vehicles. Drive times become a critical determinant of the Overall Health Score. The nearest major healthcare hub, Meridian, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via US-11 and MS-19. Traffic flow, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend this commute. Further, the condition of these roads, including potential potholes and lack of shoulders, could pose challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.

For those seeking specialized care, the journey may extend further. Depending on the specialist, trips to Jackson, Mississippi, or even Birmingham, Alabama, might be necessary. These long-distance commutes can take upwards of two to three hours, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This increases the potential for fatigue, and in emergencies, the delay could be life-threatening. The Overall Health Score is therefore negatively impacted by these extended drive times.

Public **transportation** options in 39335 are limited. The availability of public buses is sparse, and routes are often infrequent. The Meridian Transit System operates within the city of Meridian, but service to the surrounding areas, including 39335, is minimal. There are no dedicated bus routes that directly connect 39335 to major healthcare facilities. Moreover, the lack of ADA-compliant features on existing buses further restricts access for individuals with disabilities. This scarcity of reliable public transit significantly lowers the Overall Health Score, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Meridian, but their presence in 39335 is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Residents may face longer wait times or higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The reliability of ride-sharing services is therefore a significant factor influencing the Overall Health Score. The potential for unpredictable wait times and fluctuating costs adds an element of uncertainty to healthcare access.

Medical transport services are available in the area, offering specialized transportation for patients with specific medical needs. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local ambulance services provide emergency and non-emergency medical transport. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, especially for non-emergency appointments. The Overall Health Score considers the availability, cost, and reliability of these specialized services.

The availability of local clinics and urgent care facilities within 39335 is limited. This means that residents often have to travel to Meridian for even basic healthcare needs. The lack of local options puts added pressure on the existing **transportation** infrastructure and increases the reliance on personal vehicles or other services. This scarcity of local healthcare options further lowers the Overall Health Score.

The Overall Health Score also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors. Residents with lower incomes may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to limited financial resources for **transportation** costs. This includes the cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fares, and medical transport services. The lack of affordable **transportation** options can create significant barriers to healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

The Overall Health Score is also influenced by the availability of preventative care services. The ability to access regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations is crucial for maintaining good health. If residents face significant **transportation** barriers to these preventative services, their overall health is likely to suffer. This underscores the importance of easy access to all aspects of healthcare, not just emergency care.

The geographical layout of 39335 also presents challenges. The area is predominantly rural, with limited infrastructure and dispersed population centers. This makes it more difficult to establish efficient **transportation** networks and provide readily accessible healthcare services. The Overall Health Score reflects the inherent challenges associated with this rural setting.

Considering all these factors, the Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in 39335 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare needs, coupled with limited public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services, creates significant challenges. The extended drive times to Meridian and beyond, particularly for specialized care, also contribute to a lower score. The lack of local healthcare options and the potential for high **transportation** costs further exacerbate these challenges.

For those considering **moving to Lauderdale**, understanding these **transportation** limitations is crucial. Careful planning and consideration of healthcare access needs are essential. Exploring options such as carpooling, coordinating appointments to minimize trips, and utilizing telehealth services when possible can help mitigate some of the challenges. The Overall Health Score highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in 39335, including potentially expanding public transit, incentivizing ride-sharing services, and supporting the development of local healthcare facilities.