39429, Columbia, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39429, Columbia, Mississippi is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.10 percent of residents in 39429 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Marion General Hospital with a distance of 1.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39429 (Columbia, MS)

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 39429, focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access. A significant component of this score revolves around the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options available to residents seeking medical care. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for individuals considering **moving to Columbia**, Mississippi, and assessing their healthcare needs.

ZIP Code 39429 encompasses the city of Columbia, the county seat of Marion County. Its rural setting, while offering certain lifestyle advantages, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The availability and efficiency of **transportation** options directly impact residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical attention. This analysis aims to provide a realistic assessment of these factors.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of **transportation** for healthcare access in 39429 is personal vehicle. Drive times to medical facilities significantly influence the overall health score. Columbia's primary medical hub is Marion General Hospital, conveniently located within the city limits. Accessing this facility is generally straightforward, with most residents experiencing drive times under 15 minutes. However, the availability of specialized medical care often necessitates travel to larger cities like Hattiesburg, approximately 40 miles north.

Traveling to Hattiesburg typically involves using US Highway 98, the major east-west artery through the region. The journey usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Another option is Mississippi Highway 13, which offers a more direct route but often involves navigating smaller, less maintained roads. The condition of these roads, particularly after inclement weather, can impact travel times and safety.

For those needing specialist care in larger cities like Jackson, Mississippi, the drive time increases significantly. This journey involves using US Highway 98 to Interstate 59 North, extending the travel time to approximately two hours. The availability of reliable **transportation** becomes even more critical for residents with chronic conditions or limited mobility who require regular appointments.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transit options in Columbia are limited. The city does not have a comprehensive public bus system. Residents rely primarily on personal vehicles or informal arrangements. This lack of robust public **transportation** presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a car, particularly the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities.

While there are no fixed-route buses, Marion County does offer a demand-response service, often referred to as Dial-a-Ride. This service, operated by the county, provides transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other essential destinations. However, availability is often limited, and riders must schedule rides in advance. The service may not be suitable for emergency situations or spontaneous medical needs. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these services is crucial, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize them. Details regarding ADA compliance and scheduling procedures are vital for residents to understand.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Columbia. Availability may be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare access can be unreliable, potentially leading to delays or missed appointments. This factor negatively impacts the overall health score.

Medical transport services are available, offering specialized **transportation** for individuals requiring non-emergency medical care. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including AMR (American Medical Response) and local, independent providers. Costs for these services can vary, and insurance coverage may differ depending on the specific provider and the patient's insurance plan.

Emergency medical services (EMS) are readily available in Columbia and Marion County. The Marion County Ambulance Service provides 911 response and emergency medical care. Response times are generally good, but the rural nature of the area can sometimes impact ambulance arrival times, particularly in more remote locations.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The overall health score for 39429 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the presence of Marion General Hospital within the city provides convenient access to primary care, the limitations in **transportation** options for specialized care and the lack of robust public transit negatively impact the score. Individuals considering **moving to Columbia** should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and consider the reliability of their **transportation** options.

The availability of medical transport services and the potential for ride-sharing are mitigating factors, but their limitations and costs should be considered. The drive times to Hattiesburg and Jackson, while manageable for some, can pose a significant challenge for others, particularly those with mobility issues or chronic conditions.

The health score is also impacted by the social determinants of health. Factors such as income, education, and access to healthy food influence overall health outcomes. The availability of affordable housing, access to social support networks, and the presence of community resources also play a role.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

To improve the overall health score for 39429, several strategies are essential. Expanding public transit options, particularly for individuals with disabilities and those without access to personal vehicles, is crucial. This could involve increasing the frequency and coverage of the Dial-a-Ride service or exploring the feasibility of a fixed-route bus system.

Promoting the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services is another vital step. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments could improve access to care. Enhancing the accessibility and affordability of medical transport services is also critical.

Finally, promoting community awareness about available healthcare resources and **transportation** options is essential. This could involve providing information about medical transport services, ride-sharing options, and the Dial-a-Ride program. Educating residents about their rights and responsibilities regarding healthcare access can empower them to make informed decisions.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 39429 is moderate. While the presence of local healthcare facilities is a positive factor, the limitations in **transportation** options, particularly for specialized care, present challenges. Individuals considering **moving to Columbia** should carefully assess their healthcare needs and consider the implications of the available **transportation** options. By addressing the shortcomings in **transportation** and promoting access to healthcare resources, the overall health score for the community can be significantly improved.