39367, Waynesboro, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39367, Waynesboro, Mississippi is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.97 percent of residents in 39367 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne General Hospital with a distance of 1.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39367 (Waynesboro, Mississippi)

Understanding the health landscape of a community necessitates a deep dive into its healthcare access, a crucial component of overall well-being. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 39367, encompassing Waynesboro, Mississippi, and evaluates its "Overall Health Score" concerning transportation and healthcare access. This score reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, impacting everything from preventative care to emergency response. If you are moving to Waynesboro, this is essential information.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in 39367 is the reliance on personal vehicles. Waynesboro, a rural community, presents challenges in public transportation and alternative modes of transport. The health score is therefore heavily influenced by drive times to healthcare facilities, the condition of roadways, and the availability of transportation alternatives.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The heart of healthcare access in Waynesboro lies on Highway 84, the main artery connecting the town to surrounding areas. Residents seeking specialized care or more comprehensive services will likely travel east or west on this highway. The drive to Rush Hospital in Meridian, a regional medical center, is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code. This journey involves navigating Highway 84 and possibly Interstate 59, a significant time commitment for routine appointments or unexpected medical needs.

Traveling west on Highway 84 leads to facilities in Laurel, approximately an hour's drive. This route is generally less congested than the Meridian route but still requires careful planning. Secondary roads, such as Highway 63 and Highway 184, provide alternative routes, though these are often narrower and may not be well-maintained, particularly after inclement weather. These roads are important for reaching local clinics and urgent care facilities, but their condition can impact drive times and safety.

**Public Transit and its Limitations:**

Public transportation options in Waynesboro are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system or fixed-route service within the town or the surrounding county. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative solutions. The closest regional transit options might be found in larger cities like Meridian, but even these options may not directly serve Waynesboro. The lack of ADA-accessible public transit options further compounds the challenges for individuals with mobility impairments, making it difficult to navigate the healthcare landscape.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Waynesboro. Their availability is often inconsistent, and wait times can be prolonged, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This unreliability makes them a less-than-ideal solution for routine medical appointments or urgent care needs.

Medical transportation services are available, but their coverage and cost can be a barrier. Ambulance services are available for emergencies, but their primary function is to transport patients to the nearest emergency room. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, such as local ambulance services or specialized companies, offer transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking, and their availability can be limited, especially for short-notice appointments. The cost of these services can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for those with limited incomes or inadequate insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Facilities within 39367:**

Waynesboro is home to Wayne General Hospital, a critical access hospital offering a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient clinics. This hospital is a vital resource for the community, providing essential medical services close to home. However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel to larger regional hospitals in Meridian or Laurel.

Several clinics and physician practices are also located within the ZIP code, providing primary care, specialist consultations, and other healthcare services. These facilities are crucial for routine check-ups, chronic disease management, and preventative care. Their proximity to residents helps improve healthcare access, but the availability of specialists may still require travel to larger cities.

**Factors Influencing the Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" for 39367, regarding transportation and healthcare access, is moderate, influenced by several key factors. The primary challenge is the reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of robust public transportation. This dependence creates barriers for those without access to a car, especially the elderly and those with disabilities.

The drive times to regional medical centers, while not excessively long, can still pose a challenge, especially during emergencies or for frequent appointments. The condition of roadways and the availability of alternative routes also impact the overall score. The presence of local healthcare facilities, including Wayne General Hospital and various clinics, helps mitigate some of the transportation challenges.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving the "Overall Health Score" requires a multi-faceted approach. Increasing the availability of NEMT services, potentially through partnerships with local organizations or healthcare providers, would be beneficial. Exploring the feasibility of a demand-response public transit system, even on a limited scale, could improve access for those without personal vehicles.

Investing in road maintenance and improvements, particularly on secondary roads, would enhance safety and reduce drive times. Promoting ride-sharing options and educating residents about their availability could also improve access. Finally, continued support for local healthcare facilities, including recruitment of specialists and expansion of services, would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for 39367, regarding transportation and healthcare access, reflects the challenges and opportunities present in a rural community. While Waynesboro has a strong local healthcare infrastructure, the limitations in transportation options create barriers to care for some residents. By addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation and healthcare services, Waynesboro can improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need. If you are moving to Waynesboro, understanding these dynamics is crucial for planning your healthcare needs.