39421, Bassfield, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39421, Bassfield, Mississippi is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.57 percent of residents in 39421 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Marion General Hospital with a distance of 9.27 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Bassfield, MS (ZIP Code 39421)

Bassfield, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Jefferson Davis County, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly concerning **healthcare access**. The rural nature of the area, coupled with the limited infrastructure, significantly impacts the ease with which residents can access vital medical services. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the challenges and opportunities surrounding **transportation** to healthcare facilities within and around ZIP Code 39421. For anyone **moving to Bassfield**, understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining well-being.

The primary obstacle to healthcare access in Bassfield is the geographical isolation. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel by car, the dominant mode of **transportation**. This reliance on personal vehicles immediately creates a disparity. Individuals without access to a car, or those with mobility limitations, face significant hurdles.

Drive times are a critical component of the health score. To reach the nearest hospital, Jefferson Davis Community Hospital in Prentiss, the journey is typically a 15-20 minute drive via MS-42. This is a relatively manageable distance, offering a degree of reassurance for those requiring immediate medical attention. However, for more specialized care, residents often need to travel further.

Hattiesburg, approximately 40 miles away, offers a wider array of healthcare options. Reaching Hattiesburg necessitates a drive along MS-42 East, followed by a potential connection to US-49 South or MS-13. The drive time to Hattiesburg can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, particularly during emergencies or for those with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments.

For even more specialized care, such as those found at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, the journey becomes substantially longer. This trip, encompassing a drive along US-49 North, could take upwards of two hours, potentially exacerbating health issues. The distance and travel time, therefore, contribute negatively to the overall health score.

Public **transportation** options in Bassfield and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within Jefferson Davis County. This lack of public transit severely restricts **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The absence of public transport is a major factor in the low health score.

The absence of public transport is not offset by the presence of extensive ADA-compliant infrastructure. The lack of sidewalks and accessible bus stops further compounds the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities or mobility impairments. This lack of infrastructure limits the options for those who cannot drive or who have mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hattiesburg area, but their presence in Bassfield itself is sporadic and unreliable. Securing a ride-share vehicle in Bassfield can be difficult, particularly during off-peak hours or in the event of an emergency. This inconsistency further diminishes the health score.

Medical **transportation** services, like ambulance services, are available in Bassfield. However, these services are primarily for emergencies and may not be suitable for routine medical appointments. While they provide critical care in emergencies, they do not address the ongoing need for **transportation** to scheduled medical visits.

The availability of medical **transportation** brands, such as AMR (American Medical Response) or local ambulance services, is crucial in emergency situations. However, these services are typically reserved for critical care and may not be a viable option for routine appointments or check-ups. The reliance on emergency services for non-emergency medical needs further strains the healthcare system.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Bassfield is negatively impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public **transportation**, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the limited options for medical **transportation**. The drive times to specialized medical facilities, especially in Hattiesburg and Jackson, also contribute to a lower score.

The health score is further influenced by the demographics of the area. Jefferson Davis County has a significant elderly population, a group that often requires more frequent medical care. This demographic factor exacerbates the challenges of **healthcare access** due to age-related mobility issues and the potential for chronic health conditions.

The socioeconomic factors also play a role. Lower-income residents may struggle to afford the cost of car ownership, maintenance, and fuel, making **transportation** to healthcare even more challenging. The financial burden of healthcare **transportation** can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially resulting in poorer health outcomes.

To improve the overall health score, several interventions are needed. Investing in public **transportation**, even a limited route connecting Bassfield to Hattiesburg, would significantly enhance **healthcare access**. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized **transportation** for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting community-based programs that offer **transportation** assistance to vulnerable populations would be a valuable step. Such programs could include volunteer driver networks or partnerships with local organizations to provide rides to medical appointments.

Telemedicine, while not a replacement for in-person care, can play a vital role in improving **healthcare access** in rural areas. Expanding access to telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, could reduce the need for travel and improve health outcomes.

For anyone **moving to Bassfield**, a thorough understanding of these **transportation** and **healthcare access** factors is essential. Planning for **transportation** needs, exploring available resources, and proactively addressing potential barriers to care are crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Bassfield, while currently low, can be improved through strategic interventions and community-based initiatives.