39348, Paulding, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39348, Paulding, Mississippi is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.55 percent of residents in 39348 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Watkins Hospital with a distance of 18.13 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39348

Paulding, Mississippi, nestled within the 39348 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for residents navigating the complexities of healthcare access. This assessment delves into the transportation infrastructure, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, ultimately culminating in an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Paulding, as it directly impacts their overall well-being and quality of life.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 39348 is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Paulding is a rural community, and the reliance on cars is significant. The major thoroughfares influencing healthcare commutes are Highway 80, Highway 51, and various county roads. Highway 80, the primary east-west artery, provides access to larger medical facilities in larger cities. Highway 51 runs north-south, offering another route to healthcare options. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times and accessibility.

Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Overall Health Score. The closest clinic or urgent care facility is likely located within a 15-20 minute drive, depending on the exact location within the 39348 ZIP code. However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, necessitates longer commutes. The nearest major hospitals, offering a comprehensive range of services, are located in larger cities like Meridian, Mississippi. This drive can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific route taken.

Public transportation options are limited in Paulding. The rural nature of the area and the lack of significant population density make establishing a robust public transit system challenging. Currently, there are no established bus routes or fixed-route public transit services within the 39348 ZIP code. This absence significantly impacts individuals who do not own a vehicle, the elderly, and those with disabilities, effectively creating a barrier to healthcare access. The lack of public transportation contributes to a lower Overall Health Score.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) plays a crucial role in ensuring healthcare accessibility for individuals with disabilities. While public transit options are scarce, the ADA mandates that all healthcare facilities must provide reasonable accommodations to patients with disabilities. This includes accessible entrances, examination rooms, and restrooms. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of public transit options in Paulding can still pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility limitations, especially when considering the distance to larger medical facilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Meridian area, but their presence in Paulding is less certain. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver density and demand. While a ride-sharing service might be available, the wait times and the cost of a ride to a medical appointment could be prohibitive, especially for those with limited financial resources. This variable availability further complicates healthcare access and negatively affects the Overall Health Score.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patient transport are another consideration. Companies like Med-Trans or local ambulance services may provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to patients with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. The availability and cost of these services in the 39348 ZIP code are crucial factors in determining the Overall Health Score.

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in the 39348 ZIP code reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by the existing transportation infrastructure. The score is influenced by several factors, including drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation options. The score also considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities for individuals with disabilities and the potential impact of these factors on the overall health and well-being of residents.

Considering the limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long drive times to access specialized care, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in the 39348 ZIP code is moderate. While local clinics and urgent care facilities are relatively accessible, access to specialized care requires longer commutes. The lack of public transportation and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges for certain segments of the population.

For those considering moving to Paulding, Mississippi, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. Careful consideration of the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of alternative transportation options, and the potential for healthcare costs is crucial. Planning for transportation needs, especially for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, is paramount.

Improving the Overall Health Score would require strategic interventions. This could involve exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to ensure availability in the area, promoting the use of NEMT services for those who need them, and advocating for the expansion of public transportation options. Such improvements would enhance healthcare access for all residents of the 39348 ZIP code and contribute to a healthier community. The availability of healthcare is essential to the well-being of the residents of Paulding.