39573, Perkinston, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39573, Perkinston, Mississippi is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.24 percent of residents in 39573 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pearl River County Hospital with a distance of 19.52 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Perkinston, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39573)

The health and well-being of Perkinston residents, nestled in the heart of Mississippi's Harrison County, are inextricably linked to their ability to access healthcare. This comprehensive analysis, considering various **transportation** options, aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" for individuals residing in ZIP code 39573, evaluating the ease and efficiency with which they can reach medical facilities. We will delve into drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options, painting a detailed picture for those considering **moving to Perkinston** or already residing within its boundaries. The goal is to offer a clear understanding of **healthcare access** challenges and opportunities.

The "Overall Health Score" will be a qualitative assessment, considering factors such as travel time, convenience, cost, and accessibility. It will not be a numerical score but rather a narrative evaluation, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Perkinston.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Primary Mode**

For most Perkinston residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare appointments. The strategic location of Perkinston, with its proximity to major thoroughfares, offers a degree of convenience, but this is tempered by the potential for traffic congestion and distance.

The most direct route to larger medical facilities often involves traversing **Highway 49**, a major north-south artery. Depending on the specific destination, the drive can range from 15 minutes to an hour. For example, accessing the larger hospitals in Gulfport, such as Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, typically requires a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes via Highway 49. Traffic, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend this travel time, impacting the overall health score.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are scattered throughout the region. Accessing these may involve navigating local roads, such as **Perkinston Road** and **Dedeaux Road**. While these routes offer shorter distances to some facilities, they can be less direct and may be subject to varying road conditions. The condition of these roads and the availability of parking at healthcare facilities also contribute to the overall assessment.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public **transportation** options in Perkinston are limited, which significantly impacts the **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The availability of buses and other forms of public transit is crucial for individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The Coast Transit Authority (CTA) provides bus service in the region, but the routes and schedules are not always conducive to accessing healthcare facilities. The CTA operates several routes, but service frequency and coverage in the Perkinston area are limited. This can necessitate long wait times and multiple transfers, significantly increasing the overall travel time and reducing the convenience of public transit.

Furthermore, the accessibility of CTA buses for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transit systems provide accessible services, including ramps, lifts, and designated seating. However, the availability and reliability of these ADA features can vary, impacting the **healthcare access** for individuals with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option for accessing healthcare. However, the availability of these services in Perkinston is not guaranteed. The presence of ride-sharing services is dependent on driver availability, which can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited incomes.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other health needs. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including specialized ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) companies.

These services often provide door-to-door service, assisting patients with boarding and disembarking. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary. The availability of these services, especially for non-emergency situations, can also be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially leading to delays in accessing healthcare.

**Specific Considerations for Perkinston Residents**

The location of Perkinston, while offering some access to major highways, presents unique challenges to **healthcare access**. The rural nature of the area, coupled with the limited public transit options, increases the reliance on personal vehicles and ride-sharing services.

For those considering **moving to Perkinston**, it is crucial to carefully evaluate the **transportation** options available and assess their ability to access necessary healthcare services. Factors such as age, mobility, and financial resources will significantly impact the overall health score.

The availability of local clinics and urgent care facilities within Perkinston itself can mitigate some of the challenges associated with accessing larger medical centers. However, the range of services offered at these facilities may be limited, requiring residents to travel further for specialized care.

**Conclusion: A Nuanced Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Perkinston, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39573) is a complex and nuanced assessment. While the proximity to major highways offers some convenience, the limited public transit options, the potential for traffic congestion, and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges.

For those with personal vehicles, **healthcare access** is generally manageable, although travel times can vary. However, for individuals without personal vehicles, the **transportation** options are significantly limited, impacting their ability to access healthcare. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options offers some alternatives, but their cost and availability can be barriers.

The overall assessment suggests that while Perkinston residents have access to healthcare, the ease and efficiency of accessing these services are not uniform. The health score is influenced by individual circumstances, including mobility, financial resources, and the availability of support networks. Further investment in public transit, expansion of ride-sharing services, and improved access to medical transport options would significantly enhance the overall health score and improve the well-being of the Perkinston community. Understanding these challenges is crucial for those considering **moving to Perkinston** and for policymakers seeking to improve **healthcare access** in the region.