39563, Moss Point, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39563, Moss Point, Mississippi is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.43 percent of residents in 39563 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Singing River Health System with a distance of 4.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Moss Point, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39563)

Considering a move to Moss Point, Mississippi, and concerned about healthcare access? Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for accessing medical services within and around ZIP code 39563. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately painting a picture of how easily residents can reach necessary healthcare. The score is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Moss Point is the reliance on personal vehicles. The city's layout and the dispersed locations of medical facilities make driving the most common mode of transportation. The major thoroughfares, **Interstate 10 (I-10)** and **Highway 90**, are vital arteries. I-10 provides east-west connectivity, while Highway 90 runs parallel to the coast, offering access to various medical providers. Local roads like **Main Street** and **Pine Street** serve as crucial connectors within the city, facilitating access to clinics, hospitals, and specialist offices.

Drive times are significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours. While the area generally experiences moderate traffic, congestion can occur near I-10 during rush hour, potentially extending travel times to hospitals in Biloxi or Pascagoula. For example, a trip from the eastern edge of Moss Point to Singing River Health System in Pascagoula, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 15-20 minutes under normal conditions. However, this could stretch to 30 minutes or more during peak commute times. Conversely, accessing the Gulfport Memorial Hospital in Gulfport, Mississippi, might take 45 minutes to an hour.

Public transportation options in Moss Point are limited. The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. Route coverage within Moss Point is primarily focused on connecting residential areas with commercial centers. The CTA operates on a fixed-route system, with buses running at scheduled intervals. While the CTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring the availability of accessible services on all routes is critical for those with mobility impairments. Detailed route maps and schedules are available on the CTA website.

Accessibility is a major concern. While the CTA offers a valuable service, the limited route network and infrequent schedules can pose significant challenges for residents needing to reach healthcare facilities. Those living in areas not directly served by bus routes may need to rely on walking, cycling, or finding alternative transportation to reach a bus stop, adding travel time and complexity. This is particularly challenging for elderly residents or those with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Moss Point, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Residents may experience longer wait times, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially making it less affordable than other transportation options.

Medical transport services are available for individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services typically cater to patients needing transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, or other healthcare-related destinations. Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation companies. The availability and coverage of these services vary, and it's essential to research and understand the specific options available in Moss Point.

**Moving to Moss Point** requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall health score. While Moss Point offers access to healthcare facilities, the transportation challenges can create barriers, particularly for those without personal vehicles, with mobility limitations, or who rely on public transit.

The healthcare landscape extends beyond Moss Point itself. Many residents seek specialized care in neighboring cities like Pascagoula, Biloxi, and Gulfport. This necessitates longer travel times, increasing the importance of reliable transportation. Planning for healthcare needs, including understanding the availability of transportation options and the potential costs associated with them, is essential when considering a move to this area.

The healthcare infrastructure in the region is a mix of public and private facilities. Singing River Health System in Pascagoula serves as a major provider, offering a wide range of services. Other hospitals and clinics are located in neighboring cities, expanding the healthcare options available to Moss Point residents. However, the distance to these facilities can be a significant factor, especially in emergencies.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Moss Point is moderately challenging. While healthcare facilities are accessible, transportation limitations create barriers for some residents. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential for fluctuating ride-sharing availability necessitate careful planning and consideration.

The availability of medical transport services can mitigate some of these challenges, but it's essential to understand the specific options and costs associated with them. Prospective residents should thoroughly research their healthcare needs, assess their transportation options, and factor these considerations into their decision to move to Moss Point. This proactive approach will ensure that they can access the healthcare services they need when they need them.