39363, Stonewall, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39363, Stonewall, Mississippi is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.11 percent of residents in 39363 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Watkins Hospital with a distance of 7.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39363 (Stonewall, Mississippi)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Stonewall, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39363), focusing specifically on the critical aspect of transportation. We will delve into the realities of getting to medical appointments, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility, a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Stonewall or already residing within its boundaries.

The Overall Health Score is not a single number but a composite assessment, considering factors such as the availability of transportation options, the efficiency of travel times, and the presence of accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This assessment will highlight the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care, ultimately offering a clearer picture of the community's health infrastructure.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation in Stonewall, Mississippi, is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The road network, while adequate, presents certain challenges. The most direct route to major healthcare facilities often involves navigating US Highway 80, a vital east-west artery. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times.

The nearest major hospital, Rush Health Systems in Meridian, is approximately 15-20 miles away, depending on the specific location within the 39363 ZIP code. The journey typically takes 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Residents may also utilize Mississippi Highway 145, which provides a north-south connection, albeit with fewer direct routes to healthcare providers.

Smaller clinics and doctor's offices are scattered throughout the region, some within Stonewall itself, offering more immediate care options. However, specialized services and emergency care often necessitate travel to Meridian. This reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle ownership and maintenance for residents. The condition of the roads, particularly after inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Stonewall and the surrounding area are limited. The availability of bus services is restricted, and routes are infrequent. The lack of a robust public transit system poses a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

The Meridian Transit System (MTS) operates within the city of Meridian, but its reach into Stonewall is minimal. Information regarding specific routes and schedules is essential for those who might consider using public transit. Residents should contact MTS directly to ascertain the availability of routes and their suitability for reaching healthcare facilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor in evaluating public transit options. The MTS is required to provide accessible services, including wheelchair lifts and accessible routes. However, the limited frequency and reach of these services can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Meridian area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services in Stonewall is variable. Demand and driver availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, but their coverage area and pricing should be carefully considered.

Researching the specific brands operating in the area is crucial. This includes contacting these services to determine their availability, service area, and associated costs. Understanding the insurance coverage and payment options is also essential.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge:**

Healthcare access in Stonewall, Mississippi, is a multifaceted challenge, significantly influenced by transportation limitations. While the presence of local clinics provides some level of immediate care, access to specialized services and emergency care often requires travel to Meridian. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers for many residents.

The Overall Health Score for transportation and healthcare access in ZIP Code 39363 is, therefore, impacted by these factors. The score reflects the need for improvement in transportation infrastructure and the expansion of healthcare services.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Several measures could enhance healthcare access for Stonewall residents. Investing in public transit infrastructure, including expanding routes and increasing service frequency, is crucial. This would benefit individuals without personal vehicles and promote greater equity in healthcare access.

Collaborating with ride-sharing services to improve their presence in the area could also be beneficial. Negotiating partnerships with medical transport providers to offer subsidized or discounted services could further alleviate transportation barriers.

Promoting community awareness of existing transportation options and healthcare resources is also essential. This includes disseminating information about public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for transportation and healthcare access in Stonewall, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39363), reflects a need for improvement. While the community benefits from the presence of local clinics, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options pose significant challenges. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in public transit, partnerships with ride-sharing and medical transport services, and community outreach can significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents. For those considering moving to Stonewall, a thorough understanding of these transportation limitations is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The community's health is directly linked to its ability to overcome these transportation hurdles, ensuring that all residents can receive the care they need, when they need it.