39365, Union, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39365, Union, Mississippi is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.62 percent of residents in 39365 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Laird Hospital with a distance of 1.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39365 (Union, Mississippi)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access vital resources, and in Union, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39365), this includes the crucial component of healthcare. Evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities offers a window into the overall health and well-being of the population. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the transportation landscape, meticulously examining drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this rural Mississippi community. It's a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Union, Mississippi.

The primary mode of transportation in Union, and the surrounding rural areas, is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The roads, though generally well-maintained, dictate the rhythm of healthcare access. The most direct route to larger medical centers, particularly those offering specialized care, often involves traversing the major highways.

The primary arteries for reaching healthcare destinations are Mississippi Highway 16 (MS-16) and Mississippi Highway 495 (MS-495). These roads, though essential, can present challenges. Travel times can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination. For example, a trip to Rush Health Systems in Meridian, a regional healthcare hub, could take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the exact starting point within the ZIP code and the traffic conditions on MS-16 and Interstate 20.

Access to primary care physicians and urgent care facilities within Union itself is generally more convenient. However, the availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often necessitates travel to Meridian or even further afield, extending the commute and potentially impacting the timeliness of care.

Public transportation options in Union are limited. The primary mode of public transit is the Meridian Transit System (MTS). However, the MTS primarily serves the city of Meridian, and service to and from Union is extremely limited, if it exists at all. This makes it a less viable option for the majority of residents needing to reach healthcare facilities.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the importance of personal vehicles and the challenges faced by individuals without access to them. The MTS does offer ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair-accessible buses, but the limited reach of the system makes it a less effective solution for residents of Union seeking healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Meridian area, but their presence in Union is not consistently reliable. Availability is often contingent on driver availability and demand, making them a less dependable option, particularly for scheduled medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. These services are essential for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, but their availability and cost can vary.

The primary ambulance service for the area is provided by Union County Emergency Medical Services. NEMT providers, such as First Transit, operate in the region and offer transportation for individuals who require assistance but do not need emergency medical care. The availability of NEMT services is crucial for ensuring that individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions can access necessary medical care.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 39365 is, therefore, influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While Union offers some local healthcare options, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for many residents. The drive times to specialized medical centers in Meridian can be significant, and the cost of transportation can be a barrier for some.

For those considering moving to Union, Mississippi, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The availability of reliable transportation, whether a personal vehicle, access to ride-sharing services, or the ability to utilize medical transport, directly impacts the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The score is also affected by the demographics of the population. Union has a significant elderly population and a considerable percentage of residents with disabilities. These demographics often face greater challenges in accessing transportation and, consequently, healthcare. The availability of NEMT services and the accessibility of local medical facilities are, therefore, critical considerations.

The health score must also consider the overall economic landscape of the community. Lower-income residents may face additional challenges, including the cost of maintaining a vehicle, the expense of ride-sharing services, and the potential for limited access to healthcare due to financial constraints.

The future of healthcare access in Union could be enhanced by several factors. Investing in public transit options, even if limited, could provide a vital lifeline for those without personal vehicles. Promoting ride-sharing services, perhaps through partnerships with local healthcare providers, could improve access for some residents. Supporting and expanding NEMT services is essential for ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can reach their medical appointments.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of local healthcare providers, including specialists, could reduce the need for long-distance travel. This would not only improve healthcare access but also enhance the overall quality of life for residents of Union.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 39365 reflects a community grappling with the challenges of rural transportation. While the local healthcare infrastructure provides a foundation, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of alternative transportation options create barriers to care. For those considering moving to Union, Mississippi, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential. The future of healthcare access in Union depends on addressing these challenges through a combination of infrastructure improvements, innovative transportation solutions, and a commitment to ensuring that all residents have access to the medical care they need.