39358, Scooba, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39358, Scooba, Mississippi is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.17 percent of residents in 39358 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Stennis Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Scooba, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39358)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately woven into the fabric of its infrastructure, particularly its access to healthcare. For residents of Scooba, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39358), this access is heavily influenced by the efficiency and availability of *transportation* options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, analyzing the landscape of healthcare accessibility, considering factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. For those *moving to Scooba*, understanding these nuances is crucial for making informed decisions about their health and lifestyle.

Scooba, a charming town nestled in rural Mississippi, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in neighboring towns and cities, creating a reliance on efficient *transportation* networks. The score, therefore, reflects the combined ease and potential difficulties in reaching vital medical services.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

The primary mode of *transportation* for healthcare in Scooba is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The well-being of residents often hinges on the condition of the roads and the distance to medical facilities. The journey to Meridian, the closest city with comprehensive healthcare services, is approximately 50 miles. This drive typically takes around one hour, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within Meridian.

The primary route to Meridian involves navigating Mississippi Highway 16, a two-lane road that connects Scooba to the larger network. This route then merges onto Interstate 20, a major east-west thoroughfare. The condition of these roads is generally good, but delays can occur due to weather events or occasional construction. The drive to Philadelphia, Mississippi, offers a slightly shorter, albeit less direct, route. This journey involves taking Mississippi Highway 16 West, and then turning onto Mississippi Highway 490. This route provides access to the Choctaw General Hospital.

For those seeking specialized care, the drive times increase. The University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, offering a wider range of specialized services, is approximately a three-hour drive. This extended travel time underscores the importance of proactive health management and the potential challenges in emergency situations.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public *transportation* options in Scooba are extremely limited. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. There are no fixed-route bus services operating within Scooba or connecting it to neighboring cities.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative *transportation* methods, which can be costly and less reliable. This lack of options directly impacts the "Overall Health Score," creating a barrier to timely and consistent healthcare access. The lack of ADA-compliant features further compounds the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps, with Limitations**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, while available in larger cities, are not consistently present in Scooba. This lack of service significantly restricts the availability of on-demand *transportation* for medical appointments. The sporadic availability makes it difficult to rely on these services for routine healthcare needs.

Medical *transportation* services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), play a crucial role in bridging the healthcare access gap. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, ensuring rapid transport to the nearest hospital. However, NEMT services, which provide *transportation* for non-emergency medical appointments, are often limited in availability and can be costly.

Several medical *transportation* providers may service the area, but their specific coverage and availability can vary. These services are often crucial for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other *transportation* options. The reliance on these services, however, adds to the overall cost of healthcare and can introduce delays in accessing care.

**Overall Health Score: A Complex Equation**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Scooba, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39358) is moderately impacted by the challenges of *transportation*. The reliance on personal vehicles, combined with limited public transit and ride-sharing options, creates a situation where healthcare access is heavily dependent on individual circumstances.

The long drive times to larger medical centers, particularly for specialized care, pose a significant challenge. This necessitates proactive health management, including regular check-ups and preventative care, to mitigate potential health issues. The absence of readily available public transit and ride-sharing services further exacerbates the challenges for those without personal vehicles.

The availability of medical *transportation* services, while providing a crucial lifeline, adds to the overall cost of healthcare and can sometimes introduce delays. These factors collectively contribute to a moderate "Overall Health Score," reflecting the need for careful planning and resourcefulness to ensure consistent and timely access to medical care.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Improving healthcare access in Scooba requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public *transportation*, even a limited shuttle service connecting Scooba to Meridian, would significantly improve access for vulnerable populations. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized *transportation* for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Promoting telehealth services, where appropriate, can reduce the need for travel and improve access to certain types of care. Educating residents about available medical *transportation* options and providing financial assistance for those in need are also crucial steps. For those *moving to Scooba*, understanding these *transportation* challenges and proactively planning for healthcare needs is essential.

The "Overall Health Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not solely about the availability of medical facilities; it is also about the ease with which individuals can reach them. Addressing the *transportation* challenges in Scooba is vital to improving the health and well-being of its residents.