39401, Hattiesburg, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39401, Hattiesburg, Mississippi is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.82 percent of residents in 39401 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Wesley with a distance of 4.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39401

Assessing the overall health score for healthcare access in Hattiesburg, Mississippi's 39401 ZIP code requires a comprehensive look at transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a picture of how easily residents can reach vital healthcare services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Hattiesburg, as seamless healthcare access directly impacts overall well-being.

The primary artery for vehicular movement in and out of 39401 is Interstate 59, a major north-south thoroughfare. Access to healthcare facilities via I-59 is generally efficient, with drive times varying depending on the destination and time of day. For instance, heading south on I-59 to reach Forrest General Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 10-15 minutes from central 39401 during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, particularly between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM, these times can easily double.

Several other roads feed into I-59, providing alternative routes. US Highway 98, running east-west, offers another avenue for reaching healthcare facilities, although it is often more congested than I-59. Driving to Forrest General Hospital from the west side of 39401 via US-98 might take 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic flow. Local roads like Hardy Street and Broadway Drive also provide access, but they are subject to traffic lights and slower speeds, making them less desirable for urgent medical needs.

Public transportation in Hattiesburg, managed by the Hattiesburg Transit System, offers a more limited scope for healthcare access. While the system provides routes that traverse the city, their coverage and frequency are not always ideal for medical appointments. The primary routes servicing 39401 are Route 1 and Route 2, running along major thoroughfares. However, these routes might not directly serve all healthcare facilities, and transfers may be required, extending travel times considerably.

Furthermore, the frequency of buses, typically running every 30-60 minutes, can pose a challenge for timely healthcare appointments. The ADA accessibility features on these buses are a significant advantage for those with mobility limitations, ensuring a degree of inclusivity. However, the overall system's limitations necessitate careful planning for healthcare travel, especially for individuals without access to a private vehicle.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hattiesburg, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. The availability of ride-sharing, however, is subject to driver availability, which can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. During peak hours or in areas with limited driver coverage, wait times might be longer, potentially impacting healthcare access.

Medical transport services play a crucial role in ensuring access for individuals with specific needs. Several companies operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for those requiring assistance getting to and from appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities, the elderly, or those recovering from medical procedures. While these services are invaluable, they often require advance booking and may have associated costs, which can be a barrier for some.

The availability of specialized medical transport, such as ambulances, is also a critical factor in the overall health score. Emergency medical services (EMS) are readily accessible in 39401, with quick response times to medical emergencies. The presence of these services ensures that residents can receive immediate care when needed, regardless of their transportation limitations.

In evaluating the overall health score, the interplay of these transportation factors is crucial. While I-59 provides relatively efficient access for those with personal vehicles, the reliance on this single mode of transportation creates vulnerability. Public transit, while offering an alternative, is limited in its coverage and frequency. Ride-sharing services provide a convenient option but are subject to driver availability. Medical transport services cater to specific needs but require advance planning and may involve costs.

Considering the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on private vehicles, the overall health score for healthcare access in 39401 is moderate. While access to major healthcare facilities is generally feasible, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of alternative transportation options create potential challenges for some residents.

For individuals considering moving to Hattiesburg, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential. Those reliant on public transit or ride-sharing should carefully assess the proximity of their chosen residence to healthcare facilities and the availability of these services. Individuals with specific medical needs should research medical transport options and factor associated costs into their financial planning.

The overall health score can be improved by enhancing the public transit system, increasing the frequency of routes, and expanding coverage to better serve healthcare facilities. Promoting ride-sharing services and encouraging medical transport providers can also improve healthcare access. Ultimately, a multi-faceted approach that addresses transportation limitations will ensure that all residents of 39401 have equitable access to healthcare, fostering a healthier and more vibrant community.