39437, Ellisville, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39437, Ellisville, Mississippi is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.04 percent of residents in 39437 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Central Reg Med Ctr with a distance of 7.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39437

Ellisville, Mississippi, nestled within the 39437 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. Evaluating the overall health score necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of medical services, considering the available transportation options and the time required to reach them. This assessment will analyze the current state of healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services. This information is particularly crucial for those considering moving to Ellisville, allowing for informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Ellisville is the reliance on personal vehicles. The drive times to medical facilities, particularly hospitals and specialized clinics, are critical. The most direct route often involves navigating Highway 11, a major thoroughfare that connects Ellisville to larger cities like Laurel and Hattiesburg. Traffic flow on Highway 11 is generally moderate, but congestion can occur during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Heading south on Highway 11, residents can access South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, a comprehensive healthcare facility offering a wide range of services. The drive to Laurel typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Another option is to travel north on Highway 11, connecting to Interstate 59, which offers a faster route to Hattiesburg.

Reaching Hattiesburg, about a 30-minute drive, provides access to Forrest General Hospital, a larger regional medical center with specialized care options. The drive time on I-59 is generally efficient, but it's essential to factor in potential delays due to accidents or construction. Secondary roads, such as Old Highway 11 and various county roads, offer alternative routes, though they may add to the travel time and could be less well-maintained.

Public transportation options within Ellisville and the surrounding areas are limited. The availability of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive. Currently, there is no readily available public bus system that directly serves Ellisville. This lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents, especially those with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

The absence of a dedicated public transit system underscores the importance of considering alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution, but their availability in Ellisville is variable. The presence of these services depends on driver availability, which can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. This uncertainty can create challenges for scheduling appointments and accessing timely medical care.

Medical transport services are designed to bridge the gap for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, serving Ellisville and the surrounding areas. These services often require pre-booking and may have associated costs, but they are a crucial resource for individuals with mobility challenges or other medical needs.

The availability of medical transport services is a vital component of healthcare access, particularly for those with disabilities or chronic conditions. These services provide a crucial lifeline, ensuring that individuals can attend appointments and receive necessary medical care. The efficiency and reliability of these services are critical factors in evaluating the overall health score.

The overall health score for residents in ZIP Code 39437, concerning healthcare access, is influenced by the limitations in public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles. While drive times to nearby medical facilities are generally manageable, the lack of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present significant challenges. Medical transport services offer a crucial alternative, but their availability and associated costs must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Ellisville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and plan accordingly. The location of their residence within the ZIP code can also impact drive times and accessibility to medical facilities.

The healthcare landscape in Ellisville is undergoing constant evolution. The development of new medical facilities, the expansion of existing services, and the potential introduction of new transportation options could significantly impact the overall health score. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The reliance on personal vehicles is a key factor influencing healthcare access. The ability to drive and the condition of the vehicle are critical determinants of access to care. For those who cannot drive, the availability of alternative transportation options becomes paramount. This includes ride-sharing services, medical transport, and the potential for community-based transportation programs.

The role of technology is also important. Telehealth services, which offer remote consultations and monitoring, can improve healthcare access, particularly for those in rural areas. The availability of high-speed internet and the willingness of healthcare providers to embrace telehealth are crucial factors in its success.

The overall health score is not static; it is a dynamic measure influenced by various factors. The availability of healthcare providers, the quality of medical services, and the accessibility of transportation all contribute to the overall health score. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents of Ellisville to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and to advocate for improvements in healthcare access.

Finally, community initiatives and partnerships play a vital role in improving healthcare access. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government can lead to the development of innovative solutions, such as transportation assistance programs or mobile health clinics. These initiatives can significantly improve the overall health score for residents in ZIP Code 39437.