39423, Beaumont, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39423, Beaumont, Mississippi is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.49 percent of residents in 39423 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital Cah with a distance of 20.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Beaumont, MS (ZIP Code 39423)

Considering a move to Beaumont, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39423)? Beyond the charm of a small town, a crucial factor to assess is healthcare access. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining the ease of commuting to medical facilities, considering various transportation options. This score will help you understand the practicalities of accessing healthcare in this area, impacting your overall well-being and quality of life.

The “Overall Health Score” is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, weighing the strengths and weaknesses of healthcare accessibility within the context of Beaumont's location. It considers drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

**Drive Time and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation in Beaumont is the personal vehicle. The town's layout and surrounding infrastructure heavily influence healthcare access. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves traveling on US Highway 98, a major east-west artery. This highway connects Beaumont to Hattiesburg, approximately 20 miles west, where the most comprehensive healthcare facilities are located.

Travel time to Hattiesburg can vary significantly based on traffic conditions. During peak hours, expect a commute of 30-45 minutes. Off-peak, the journey can be as swift as 25 minutes. Other roads like MS-15 and various county roads provide alternative routes, but these are generally slower and less direct. The condition of these roads, including potential potholes and uneven surfaces, can also impact travel time and the safety of those with mobility challenges.

**Public Transportation Limitations:**

Public transportation options in Beaumont and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system that directly serves Beaumont. This presents a significant barrier for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, especially the elderly, those with disabilities, and individuals with limited financial resources.

While the lack of a public transit system is a considerable disadvantage, residents may be able to access some limited transportation services through county-level social service programs. These programs often require prior registration and may have eligibility requirements. These options, however, are not designed for routine healthcare appointments and may have limited availability.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Hattiesburg area, but their presence in Beaumont is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable, especially for scheduled appointments. Booking in advance is advisable, but even then, cancellations can occur.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, are available. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services can be costly and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility standards for public transportation and facilities. However, the lack of a public transit system in Beaumont means there are limited ADA-compliant transportation options. Medical facilities in Hattiesburg, where Beaumont residents often seek care, are generally ADA-compliant. This includes accessible entrances, elevators, and examination rooms. However, the journey to these facilities is the primary challenge.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The closest healthcare facilities within Beaumont itself are likely to be primary care clinics and urgent care centers. These facilities are suitable for routine checkups, minor illnesses, and injuries. However, for specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or surgery, residents typically need to travel to Hattiesburg or potentially even further to Mobile, Alabama, or Jackson, Mississippi.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Beaumont, MS (39423) is **Challenging**. While the town offers some local healthcare options, access to specialized care heavily relies on personal vehicles. The limited public transportation, unreliable ride-sharing, and potentially expensive medical transport options create significant barriers, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

Individuals considering a move to Beaumont should carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Consider the following:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Having a reliable vehicle is essential for accessing a wide range of healthcare services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure your health insurance plan covers transportation costs or offers options for medical transport.
* **Proximity to Hattiesburg:** Factor in the commute time to Hattiesburg when considering housing options.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Develop a plan for accessing emergency medical services, including knowing the location of the nearest hospitals and ambulance services.
* **Social Support Network:** Build a network of friends, family, or neighbors who can assist with transportation to medical appointments.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Beaumont, Mississippi, offers the appeal of a small-town lifestyle. However, prospective residents must acknowledge the limitations of healthcare access. While the town offers some local care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of robust public transportation create challenges. Careful planning and consideration of individual healthcare needs are crucial for ensuring a good quality of life in Beaumont. Those moving to Beaumont should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements, ensuring they have adequate resources to access the care they need.