39425, Brooklyn, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39425, Brooklyn, Mississippi is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.83 percent of residents in 39425 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Merit Health Wesley with a distance of 22.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39425

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. This write-up assesses the ease with which residents of ZIP Code 39425 can reach medical facilities, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on factors like drive times, public transportation options, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone considering a move to this area, especially those prioritizing healthcare access, mirroring the considerations of someone moving to Brooklyn, where transportation and healthcare are intertwined.

The primary concern for residents of 39425 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The geographical spread of healthcare facilities necessitates driving, impacting the overall health score. The most direct routes to hospitals and clinics involve navigating Highway 98 and Highway 49. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly around Hattiesburg, potentially extending travel times and adding stress, factors that negatively affect health.

Drive times to major healthcare providers vary. Forrest General Hospital, a regional hub, is typically a 20-30 minute drive, depending on the specific location within the ZIP Code and traffic conditions. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities may be closer, perhaps a 10-15 minute drive. These times, while not extreme, require careful planning, especially for those with chronic conditions or emergencies. The availability of reliable transportation is a critical component of healthcare access.

Public transportation options in 39425 are limited, significantly impacting the overall health score. The local bus system, if it exists, might offer infrequent routes, and the absence of detailed route information makes it difficult to assess its practicality for healthcare commutes. The lack of readily available information on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility further diminishes the score. This deficiency poses a significant challenge for individuals with mobility limitations or those relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or public transportation. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could make them financially inaccessible for some residents. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during emergencies or for scheduled appointments, is another consideration.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are a crucial component of healthcare access. While the specific brands operating in 39425 require further investigation, their availability is essential for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. The presence and accessibility of these services directly impact the overall health score.

The overall health score for 39425, regarding healthcare access, is moderate. While the area benefits from the presence of healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations in public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the need to confirm the presence and accessibility of medical transportation services, contribute to a lower score. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion further complicate matters.

The absence of robust public transportation and the need for further research on medical transport options are significant drawbacks. This situation mirrors the challenges faced by some residents in areas like Brooklyn, where transportation infrastructure directly influences healthcare access. Improving public transit, ensuring ride-sharing reliability, and promoting medical transportation services would significantly improve the overall health score for 39425.

For individuals considering a move to 39425, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges. Proximity to healthcare facilities is important, but the ease of access is equally critical.

The overall health score is also influenced by factors beyond transportation. The availability of healthcare providers, the quality of care, and the affordability of services all play a role. However, the ability to reach these providers is the foundation upon which all other factors rest.

The future of healthcare access in 39425 could be improved by investing in public transportation infrastructure, promoting ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability and affordability of medical transportation. These improvements would not only enhance the overall health score but also contribute to a healthier and more equitable community. This is a critical consideration for any community, including those with aspirations similar to the vibrant lifestyle found in Brooklyn.

The overall health score is a dynamic metric, subject to change based on infrastructure improvements, service availability, and evolving community needs. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents of 39425 have access to the healthcare they need. The focus on transportation and healthcare access is a cornerstone of a healthy community.