39635, Fernwood, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39635, Fernwood, Mississippi is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 39635 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southwest Ms Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Fernwood (ZIP Code 39635)

Considering a move to Fernwood, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39635)? Beyond the charm of a small town, prospective residents must assess a crucial aspect of well-being: healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating the transportation landscape for reaching medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for informed decision-making.

Fernwood, nestled in Pike County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting translates to potentially longer travel times to access healthcare. This geographical reality significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," emphasizing the importance of understanding transportation limitations. The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment, reflecting the real-world experience of navigating the healthcare system.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Fernwood is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Drive times to medical facilities are therefore a critical component of the "Overall Health Score." The nearest hospitals and clinics are primarily located in McComb, the county seat, and potentially in nearby towns.

To reach McComb, residents typically utilize **Highway 98**, the primary artery connecting Fernwood to the city. Traffic flow on Highway 98 is generally moderate, but peak hours and potential accidents can significantly increase travel times. The journey to McComb's hospitals, such as **Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center**, can typically take between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Fernwood.

Smaller clinics and physician offices within McComb might be accessible in shorter timeframes. The secondary roads, including **Old Highway 98**, **West Fernwood Road**, and various local streets, offer alternative routes. However, these roads are often narrower and may not be as well-maintained, potentially adding to travel time, especially during inclement weather.

For specialized care, residents might need to travel to larger cities like Jackson, Mississippi. This journey involves utilizing **Interstate 55**, a major north-south highway. The drive to Jackson can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, representing a significant time commitment, particularly in emergency situations. This longer distance significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," highlighting the potential challenges of accessing specialized medical services.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Fernwood and Pike County are extremely limited. This lack of robust public transit significantly diminishes the "Overall Health Score" for individuals without personal vehicles, or those unable to drive.

There is no established public bus system specifically serving Fernwood. The county may offer some limited transportation services for seniors or individuals with disabilities, but these services are often demand-response and require advance scheduling. The availability and reliability of these services should be carefully investigated by anyone considering a move to Fernwood and relying on public transit for healthcare access.

The absence of regular public transit necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport services. This limitation underscores the importance of considering transportation costs and the potential need for assistance from family or friends. The lack of readily available public transportation directly impacts the "Overall Health Score," particularly for those with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in McComb and potentially offer transportation to and from Fernwood. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The reliability of ride-sharing for healthcare appointments should be carefully assessed, as delays or cancellations could significantly impact access to care.

Medical transport services are another crucial component of the "Overall Health Score." Several companies specialize in transporting patients to medical appointments. These services are particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance.

**Medical Transport Brands:** Several companies provide medical transportation in the region. These include **American Medical Response (AMR)**, **Care Ambulance**, and local private ambulance services. These services typically offer various levels of care, from basic transportation to advanced life support, depending on the patient's needs.

The cost of medical transport services can be a significant factor, and it is essential to understand insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses. The availability and affordability of these services directly impact the "Overall Health Score," particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**ADA Accessibility:** It is crucial to inquire about the accessibility features of both public and private transportation options. For individuals with disabilities, ADA-compliant vehicles and services are essential. This includes ramps, lifts, and other accommodations to ensure safe and accessible transportation. The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is a critical factor in the "Overall Health Score" for individuals with disabilities.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Fernwood (ZIP Code 39635) is significantly influenced by the limited transportation options. While personal vehicles offer the primary means of access, the reliance on driving, coupled with the absence of robust public transit, presents challenges. The drive times to McComb are manageable, but the longer distances to specialized care in Jackson require careful planning.

The availability of ride-sharing services is uncertain, and the cost of medical transport can be a significant burden. The lack of reliable public transit further compounds these challenges, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

**Moving to Fernwood:** Prospective residents must carefully consider these factors when evaluating the suitability of Fernwood as a place to live. The "Overall Health Score" highlights the importance of assessing personal transportation needs, insurance coverage for medical transport, and the potential need for assistance from family or friends.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Fernwood reflects a landscape where healthcare access is primarily dependent on personal vehicles and, to a lesser extent, ride-sharing and medical transport. The absence of robust public transit and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care require careful consideration for anyone prioritizing convenient and reliable access to healthcare. The challenges presented by the transportation infrastructure in Fernwood necessitate proactive planning to ensure adequate healthcare access, especially when considering a move to the area.