39481, Stringer, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39481, Stringer, Mississippi is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.45 percent of residents in 39481 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is South Central Reg Med Ctr with a distance of 13.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Stringer, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39481)

Stringer, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Jasper County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. The Overall Health Score, a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, considers various factors impacting the ability of individuals to reach medical facilities. This write-up meticulously analyzes the transportation options available, from personal vehicles navigating the roadways to public transit and ride-sharing services, painting a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking care in and around the 39481 ZIP code. For those considering moving to Stringer, this information is crucial.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Stringer is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The primary arteries for transportation are Highway 15, running north-south, and Highway 80, traversing east-west. These highways, while offering relatively direct routes, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times to healthcare providers located in larger towns such as Laurel, approximately 15 miles south, or Bay Springs, roughly 18 miles north. Smaller roads, including County Road 21 and County Road 24, provide alternative routes, though they may be less well-maintained and could add to travel time.

Drive times are a critical component of the Overall Health Score. The journey to South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, a major healthcare hub, typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, unforeseen circumstances like accidents or inclement weather can significantly increase this duration. Similarly, reaching facilities in Bay Springs, while geographically closer, can still require a 25- to 35-minute drive, factoring in local road conditions. For residents with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments, these travel times can represent a considerable burden, affecting their ability to consistently access necessary care.

Public transit options in Stringer are limited. Jasper County does not currently operate a dedicated public transportation system. This absence of readily available public transit significantly impacts the Overall Health Score, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments and a decline in overall health outcomes. The absence of accessible transportation is a key consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Stringer.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative, though their availability in Stringer is variable. The presence of these services is not guaranteed at all times, and wait times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing provides a degree of flexibility, it is not a reliable or affordable solution for all residents, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport individuals to medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like FirstCall Medical Transportation and AMR (American Medical Response) operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services are typically available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from appointments but do not need emergency medical care. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, posing another potential barrier to healthcare access.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of transportation options is a crucial aspect of the Overall Health Score. The lack of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services, presents a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities. Even when ride-sharing is available, the vehicles may not always be equipped with the necessary features, such as wheelchair accessibility. Medical transport services are generally equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, but their availability and cost can still be a concern.

Healthcare access extends beyond just the ability to reach a medical facility. The availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable distance is also a critical factor. Stringer itself has limited healthcare resources, with residents often needing to travel to Laurel or Bay Springs for specialized care. This reliance on external facilities further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation. The proximity of healthcare providers and the ease of access are key indicators of the Overall Health Score.

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 39481 reflects a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services, creates significant challenges for many residents. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options, particularly for those with disabilities or limited financial resources, negatively impacts the Overall Health Score.

For those considering moving to Stringer, a thorough understanding of these transportation limitations is essential. While the community offers a peaceful, rural setting, the challenges of accessing healthcare must be carefully considered. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, those reliant on public transportation, or those with limited mobility should thoroughly evaluate their healthcare needs and the availability of transportation options before making a decision.

The Overall Health Score is not static; it can be improved through community initiatives. Advocating for the expansion of public transit options, partnering with ride-sharing services to increase availability, and supporting the development of accessible transportation programs can all contribute to improving healthcare access in Stringer. Furthermore, encouraging the growth of local healthcare providers and facilities would significantly reduce the reliance on travel to distant locations.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in Stringer, Mississippi, is moderate. While the primary reliance on personal vehicles provides a degree of access, the lack of public transit, variable ride-sharing availability, and the cost of medical transport services present significant barriers for many residents. Addressing these transportation challenges through community-based solutions is crucial to improving healthcare access and the overall health outcomes for the residents of Stringer.