39560, Long Beach, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39560, Long Beach, Mississippi is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.55 percent of residents in 39560 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital At Gulfport with a distance of 3.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39560

The tapestry of health within the Long Beach, Mississippi ZIP code 39560 is intricately woven with threads of transportation and healthcare access. Understanding the ease, or lack thereof, with which residents can reach medical facilities is crucial to assessing their overall well-being. This comprehensive analysis delves into the commute to healthcare, offering an "Overall Health Score" based on the available transportation options and the accessibility of medical services.

The 39560 ZIP code, a coastal community, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The area’s geographical layout, coupled with its reliance on various modes of transportation, significantly impacts residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This report considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this mode is directly linked to the condition of the roadways and the distance to healthcare facilities. Major thoroughfares like **Highway 90** and **Highway 49** are critical arteries, connecting Long Beach to hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers in neighboring cities like Gulfport and Biloxi.

A drive to the nearest hospital, Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. During peak hours, the commute can extend due to congestion on Highway 90, especially near the intersection with Highway 49. Travel along **Jeff Davis Avenue** (Highway 49) offers a more direct route, but it also experiences traffic, particularly during rush hour.

Access to specialized medical care, such as those offered at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, requires significantly longer travel times, often exceeding two hours. This distance poses a considerable barrier for individuals requiring specialized treatments or emergency care. The condition of local roads, including **Pineville Road** and **North Swan Road**, also influences travel times and accessibility, particularly for those living in more remote areas of the ZIP code.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network:**

The availability of public transit offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus services throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast, including Long Beach. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes can impact healthcare access.

Several CTA routes serve the 39560 area, with specific route numbers and schedules available on the CTA website. While these routes offer a cost-effective option, the travel times are often longer than driving due to multiple stops and less direct routes. Passengers should check the CTA website for route numbers and schedules to plan their trips.

The CTA strives to provide accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities. All CTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, and the agency adheres to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. Individuals with disabilities should contact the CTA directly for information on accessible services and route planning. However, the limited frequency of some routes and the potential for long wait times can still present challenges for those with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has introduced another layer to the transportation landscape. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient option for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. Availability, however, is subject to driver availability and demand, which can fluctuate.

Ride-sharing services can be particularly beneficial for non-emergency medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor for some residents, and the reliability of the service during off-peak hours or in inclement weather may be limited.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several providers operate in the Long Beach area, offering services ranging from basic transportation to specialized medical transport for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs.

These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. The cost of medical transport services can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the provider. Patients should research and compare different providers to find the most suitable and affordable option.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Long Beach:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 39560 is a complex metric, influenced by multiple factors. While the presence of major roadways and public transit options provides a foundation for access, several challenges remain. The drive times to hospitals and specialized medical facilities, particularly during peak hours, can be significant. The frequency and coverage of public transit routes may not adequately serve all areas of the ZIP code, and the reliance on ride-sharing services can be expensive and subject to availability.

For individuals considering moving to Long Beach, understanding these transportation and healthcare access factors is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess the feasibility of accessing medical services using the available transportation options. Factors such as age, mobility, and the need for specialized medical care should be considered.

Furthermore, the cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, should be factored into the overall cost of living. The availability of healthcare facilities and the proximity to specialized medical centers should also be key considerations when making a relocation decision.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 39560, several improvements are needed. Enhancements to public transit, including increased route frequency and expanded coverage, are crucial. Strategic investments in road infrastructure, particularly on Highway 90 and Highway 49, can reduce travel times and improve traffic flow.

Promoting the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can also enhance healthcare access. Community initiatives that provide transportation assistance to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and individuals with disabilities, can further improve the healthcare landscape.

Finally, continued efforts to attract healthcare providers and expand the range of medical services available within the Long Beach area will significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" and contribute to the overall well-being of the community. The health of a community is directly linked to its ability to access quality healthcare, and a concerted effort to improve transportation and healthcare access is essential for a thriving Long Beach.