39529, Stennis Space Center, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39529, Stennis Space Center, Mississippi is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 39529 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland Community Hospital with a distance of 12.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39529

Navigating the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 39529 requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This area, nestled near the sprawling expanse of Stennis Space Center, presents unique challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care. Our 'Overall Health Score' considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. This analysis is crucial for those considering moving to the area, especially individuals with mobility limitations or those relying on public transportation.

The primary arteries of movement in this region are US Highway 90 and Interstate 10. These major roadways dictate the flow of traffic, impacting drive times to healthcare facilities. From the heart of 39529, a journey to the nearest major hospital, Singing River Health System in Gautier, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via US-90, depending on traffic conditions. Accessing specialty clinics and larger hospitals further afield, such as those in Biloxi or Mobile, Alabama, necessitates longer drives, often exceeding an hour, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Public transportation, while present, offers limited reach in 39529. The Mississippi Coast Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus services, but routes and frequency may not adequately serve all areas, especially those farther from major roadways. Route 101, for example, might offer some connectivity, but its schedule and potential lack of ADA-compliant features could pose a significant barrier for individuals with disabilities. Accessibility is a critical factor, and the availability of wheelchair lifts, designated seating, and audio-visual announcements varies across routes and vehicles.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a more flexible transportation option than fixed-route buses. However, their availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant consideration, particularly for frequent medical appointments. This is a crucial factor for those considering moving to Stennis Space Center, as it impacts the ease of accessing medical care.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Ambulance services are readily available for emergencies, while NEMT providers offer transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who cannot drive themselves. These services often require pre-booking and can be subject to insurance coverage and associated costs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 39529 is moderate, influenced by several factors. While major roadways facilitate relatively quick access to some healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services adds flexibility, but their cost and accessibility must be carefully considered.

For residents relying on public transportation, the limited route coverage and potential accessibility issues of the MCTA bus system present a significant hurdle. Individuals with disabilities or those living in areas not served by the bus routes may face considerable difficulty accessing medical care. The lack of robust public transit infrastructure necessitates a reliance on alternative transportation methods, which may be costly or unreliable.

The geographical layout of the region, with its sprawling residential areas and dispersed healthcare facilities, further complicates the transportation landscape. The distance between homes and medical providers, combined with potential traffic congestion on US-90 and I-10, can significantly increase travel times. This is especially true for those living in the more rural areas of 39529.

Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative to public transit, providing door-to-door transportation. However, their availability and cost can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver coverage. The reliance on ride-sharing can also create financial strain for individuals with frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services play a vital role in ensuring access to care for individuals with mobility limitations. These services, including ambulance and NEMT providers, offer specialized transportation options, but their availability and cost are crucial considerations. Insurance coverage and pre-booking requirements can add complexity to the process of securing medical transport.

The healthcare access score for 39529 is also impacted by the availability of healthcare providers within the area. The proximity of Singing River Health System in Gautier is a positive factor, but the need to travel to larger hospitals or specialty clinics in Biloxi or Mobile can increase travel times and transportation costs. The concentration of healthcare resources in specific locations can create transportation challenges for residents living in more remote areas.

Individuals considering moving to Stennis Space Center should carefully evaluate the transportation options available in 39529. The need for a personal vehicle is significant, and the limited public transit infrastructure may pose challenges for those who cannot drive. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can mitigate some of these challenges, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

Furthermore, the presence of healthcare providers within the area, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities, influences the overall health score. The proximity of these providers, coupled with the ease of access via various transportation modes, directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 39529 is a complex metric, influenced by a combination of factors. While the presence of major roadways facilitates access to some healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create challenges. Residents, especially those with mobility limitations or those considering moving to Stennis Space Center, should carefully assess their transportation needs and the available resources to ensure they can access the medical care they require.