39571, Pass Christian, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39571, Pass Christian, Mississippi is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.84 percent of residents in 39571 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ochsner Medical Center-Hancock with a distance of 7.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39571 (Pass Christian, Mississippi)

Considering a move to the charming coastal town of Pass Christian, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39571)? Beyond the allure of Gulf breezes and historic architecture, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for maintaining well-being. The score will be influenced by drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options, painting a vivid picture of healthcare accessibility.

The score will be a subjective assessment, reflecting the relative ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare providers. Factors considered include the proximity of medical facilities, the efficiency of transportation methods, and the presence of features that accommodate individuals with disabilities. This analysis aims to provide prospective residents with a realistic view of healthcare access, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and their move to Pass Christian.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Pass Christian’s geographical layout significantly impacts healthcare access. The town is relatively compact, but the location of medical facilities outside the immediate area necessitates understanding drive times. Primary routes to consider are U.S. Highway 90, the main thoroughfare, and Interstate 10, providing access to larger medical centers.

Heading east on U.S. 90, the drive to Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, a major regional hospital, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive offers scenic views of the Gulf, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times. The route is generally well-maintained, but potential hazards like hurricane-related road closures could impact access.

Traveling west on U.S. 90, the journey to Garden Park Medical Center in Gulfport is comparable in time, around 20-30 minutes. This route experiences similar traffic patterns and potential disruptions. Both hospitals offer a comprehensive range of medical services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and surgical procedures.

Interstate 10 offers a faster route to some medical facilities, but it requires a slightly longer initial drive to access the interstate. The drive to Ochsner Medical Center – Hancock, located in Bay St. Louis, is approximately 15-20 minutes via U.S. 90, and then a quick hop onto I-10. The interstate provides a quicker, more direct route, although it is susceptible to closures during severe weather events.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Public transportation options in Pass Christian are limited, impacting the "Overall Health Score." The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus service throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast. However, service frequency and route coverage in Pass Christian are less extensive compared to larger cities.

The primary CTA route serving Pass Christian is Route 2, which travels along U.S. 90, connecting the town to Gulfport and Bay St. Louis. This route offers access to various medical facilities, including Memorial Hospital at Gulfport and Garden Park Medical Center. However, the frequency of buses is typically hourly or less, making it less convenient for urgent medical needs.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. All CTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. This ensures that individuals with mobility limitations can access public transportation, improving their healthcare access. The availability of accessible transportation significantly contributes to a higher "Overall Health Score" for those with disabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Pass Christian, providing an alternative transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation to medical appointments, potentially reducing reliance on personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in response to high demand.

Medical transportation services are also available, catering specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. Medical transport companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local private companies offer services ranging from wheelchair-accessible vans to stretcher transportation. These services are crucial for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transportation due to medical conditions.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Pass Christian (ZIP Code 39571) is moderate. The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, coupled with the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, contributes positively to the score. However, the limitations of public transit, particularly in terms of frequency and route coverage, and the potential for traffic congestion, especially along U.S. 90, somewhat detract from the score.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those who do not drive, the dependence on public transit or specialized medical transport services can add complexity to healthcare access. The availability of ADA-accessible transportation options on CTA buses is a positive factor.

The score is also influenced by the potential for weather-related disruptions. The Mississippi Gulf Coast is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, which can lead to road closures and disruptions to transportation services. This underscores the importance of having contingency plans for healthcare access during severe weather events.

**Conclusion: Moving to Pass Christian**

Moving to Pass Christian offers a unique coastal lifestyle. Prospective residents should carefully consider the transportation options available to healthcare facilities. While the drive times to major hospitals are generally manageable, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion should be factored into the decision-making process.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional support for healthcare access. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation option will help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. By carefully assessing the transportation landscape, prospective residents can make a well-informed decision about whether Pass Christian aligns with their healthcare requirements. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the multifaceted nature of healthcare access, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to transportation planning and healthcare considerations when moving to Pass Christian.