39428, Collins, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39428, Collins, Mississippi is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.05 percent of residents in 39428 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Covington County Hospital Cah with a distance of 1.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Collins, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39428)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report analyzes the transportation landscape in Collins, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39428), evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. We will examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, culminating in an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the accessibility of healthcare within this ZIP code. This assessment is crucial for individuals and families considering moving to Collins, offering a clear picture of the healthcare environment.

Collins, a town steeped in Southern charm, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The town's layout and limited public transit options necessitate reliance on cars for most errands, including healthcare appointments. The availability of efficient and reliable transportation is a cornerstone of healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations, chronic conditions, or without personal vehicles.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary arteries connecting Collins to healthcare facilities are US Highway 84 and Mississippi Highway 49. These highways are essential for accessing regional hospitals and specialist clinics. Drive times vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. For example, a trip to Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg, approximately 30 miles away, typically takes 45 minutes to an hour via US-84 East. This drive time can be significantly impacted by rush hour traffic, especially during weekday commutes.

Traveling to local clinics and urgent care facilities within Collins is generally more manageable. However, the limited number of healthcare providers within the town necessitates travel outside of the immediate area for specialized care. This underscores the importance of reliable transportation options. The condition of the roads, including potholes and inadequate lighting, can also affect drive times and safety, especially during inclement weather.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reality**

Public transportation in Collins is extremely limited. There is no established public bus system within the town. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The absence of accessible and affordable public transit disproportionately affects seniors, low-income residents, and individuals with disabilities, potentially limiting their access to vital medical services.

While there are no fixed-route buses, individuals with disabilities may be able to access transportation services through the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS). These services are typically pre-arranged and require eligibility verification. However, the availability of these services is limited, and they may not be readily available for urgent or same-day appointments. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any existing public transit options further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

The ride-sharing landscape in Collins is also limited. While ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in larger metropolitan areas, their presence in Collins is sporadic and unreliable. Availability is often dependent on driver availability and demand. This makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for scheduled medical appointments, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in Collins. Ambulance services are primarily for emergency situations and are dispatched through the 911 system. NEMT services are designed to transport individuals who require medical attention but do not need an ambulance. These services typically require pre-booking and may have limitations based on insurance coverage and availability. Several medical transport brands serve the area, including private ambulance companies and NEMT providers. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some residents.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access in Collins is a multifaceted challenge. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for many residents. The distance to specialized medical facilities and the potential for increased travel times further complicate the situation. The availability of medical transport services offers some solutions, but cost and availability remain concerns.

The availability of primary care physicians and specialists within Collins is also a factor in healthcare access. Residents may need to travel to larger cities like Hattiesburg for specialized care, further increasing the reliance on transportation. The presence of telehealth services can help mitigate some of the transportation challenges, but these services are not a complete substitute for in-person care.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for access to healthcare in ZIP Code 39428 is **Moderate**. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited alternatives create challenges for many. The lack of public transit and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services are significant drawbacks.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several recommendations are proposed. Firstly, the development of a local public transit system, even a limited one, would significantly enhance healthcare access. This could involve a demand-response system or a fixed-route bus service connecting key healthcare facilities and residential areas. Secondly, the promotion of ride-sharing services and the provision of incentives for drivers to operate in the area could increase availability.

Furthermore, the expansion of telehealth services and the promotion of home healthcare options could help reduce the need for travel. Finally, community outreach programs to educate residents about available transportation options and financial assistance programs for medical transport would be beneficial. Addressing these transportation challenges is crucial for ensuring that all residents of Collins have equitable access to healthcare. Moving to Collins presents a wonderful opportunity for families, but it is important to understand the healthcare access issues.