The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39483, Foxworth, Mississippi is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
43.29 percent of residents in 39483 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Marion General Hospital with a distance of 6.80 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 39483, Foxworth, Mississippi
Overall Health Score | 4 |
---|---|
People Score | 29 |
Provider Score | 9 |
Hospital Score | 22 |
Travel Score | 33 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 39483 | Foxworth | Mississippi |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.16 | 2.16 | 2.14 |
1 Car | 19.63 | 19.63 | 19.38 |
2 Cars | 50.43 | 50.43 | 39.26 |
3 or More Cars | 27.79 | 27.79 | 39.21 |
Vehicular Access in 39483, Foxworth, Mississippi
## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Foxworth, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39483)
Assessing the overall health score for residents of Foxworth, Mississippi, requires a deep dive into the critical factor of healthcare access. This analysis focuses on the practical realities of transportation, meticulously examining commute times, available modes of transport, and the overall ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Foxworth, as healthcare access significantly impacts quality of life.
The cornerstone of this assessment is understanding the geography. Foxworth, nestled in the heart of Marion County, is primarily a rural community. This geographical context dictates that transportation options are limited, with personal vehicles being the dominant mode of travel. The surrounding area, while offering a degree of natural beauty, presents challenges when it comes to accessing specialized medical care.
**Drive-Time Analysis: Navigating the Roads**
The primary thoroughfare connecting Foxworth to larger population centers and healthcare facilities is **Mississippi Highway 98**. This road provides the most direct route to Hattiesburg, the region's primary medical hub. A drive to Hattiesburg, approximately 25 miles east, can take anywhere from 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within the city. This drive time is a crucial consideration, as it directly impacts the speed with which individuals can receive emergency care or access specialized medical appointments.
Further complicating matters, the condition of **Highway 98** itself can be a factor. While generally well-maintained, heavy rainfall can sometimes lead to delays or temporary closures. Moreover, the road is a two-lane highway for much of the journey, meaning passing opportunities are limited, and unexpected delays can occur due to slower-moving vehicles.
Other roads, such as **Mississippi Highway 13**, offer alternative routes, but these typically involve longer travel times. **Highway 13** provides access to Columbia, the county seat, but the healthcare options in Columbia are more limited than those available in Hattiesburg. This means that while Columbia might be closer, the quality and breadth of healthcare services may not be comparable.
**Public Transit: A Sparse Landscape**
Unfortunately, public transportation options in Foxworth are severely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those who do not own a vehicle. This lack of options is a major impediment to achieving a high overall health score.
There are no readily available public bus routes operating directly within or connecting Foxworth to Hattiesburg or Columbia. This lack of public transportation creates a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those without reliable private transportation. This is a critical factor when evaluating the overall health score for the area.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Hattiesburg area, but their availability in Foxworth is less consistent. While a ride might be secured, wait times could be substantial, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride-share to Hattiesburg could also be a significant financial burden for some residents, further exacerbating the challenges of healthcare access.
Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport, are available. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance. However, these services often come with a higher cost than standard transportation, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.
**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features in public transportation and healthcare facilities. However, the lack of public transit in Foxworth limits the applicability of these mandates. For those relying on ride-share services or medical transport, the accessibility of the vehicles becomes paramount. It is essential to ensure that these services are equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or other mobility aids.
**Healthcare Facilities: Proximity and Specialization**
The availability of healthcare facilities in Foxworth itself is limited. Residents typically rely on the hospitals and clinics located in Hattiesburg. This necessitates the reliance on transportation to access a wide range of medical services. The distance and travel time to these facilities are critical factors in assessing the overall health score.
Hattiesburg offers a more comprehensive range of medical specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and specialized surgical services. However, the commute to Hattiesburg adds a layer of complexity to accessing these services. The availability of specialized care is a significant advantage, but the transportation challenges must be carefully considered.
**Overall Health Score: A Balanced Perspective**
Based on this analysis, the overall health score for residents of Foxworth, Mississippi, is moderately impacted by transportation challenges. While the drive to Hattiesburg is manageable for those with personal vehicles, the lack of public transportation and the limited availability of ride-share services create significant barriers for a portion of the population.
The reliance on personal vehicles places a greater burden on individuals and families, particularly in emergency situations. The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential ride-share fees, can also be a significant financial strain.
**Moving to Foxworth: A Realistic Assessment**
For those considering moving to Foxworth, a realistic assessment of healthcare access is essential. The availability of healthcare services is a critical component of a healthy and fulfilling life. Prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and ensure that they have a reliable means of reaching medical facilities.
While Foxworth offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the transportation challenges to healthcare services must be carefully weighed. Individuals who are reliant on public transportation or have limited mobility may find healthcare access more challenging.
**Recommendations: Improving Healthcare Access**
To improve the overall health score, several initiatives could be considered. These include exploring options for expanding public transportation, such as establishing a shuttle service to Hattiesburg. Partnerships with ride-share companies could be explored to improve availability and reduce costs. Furthermore, promoting the use of telehealth services could help bridge the gap in healthcare access for those with transportation limitations.
In conclusion, while Foxworth offers a desirable quality of life in many respects, the limitations in transportation options to healthcare facilities pose a challenge. Understanding these realities is crucial for residents and those considering moving to the area. By addressing these transportation challenges, the community can improve the overall health score and enhance the well-being of its residents.
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