39663, Silver Creek, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39663, Silver Creek, Mississippi is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.27 percent of residents in 39663 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lawrence County Hospital Cah with a distance of 5.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39663 (Silver Creek, MS)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Silver Creek, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39663) requires a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis considers the multifaceted nature of healthcare access, focusing on transportation options, travel times, and the availability of various medical services. This is particularly crucial for individuals contemplating **moving to Silver Creek**, as their health and well-being will directly correlate with their ability to reach essential medical care.

The geographical context of Silver Creek, a rural community in Lawrence County, presents inherent challenges to healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in larger towns, necessitating reliance on **transportation** networks that may be limited. This write-up will explore the current state of these networks, offering a comprehensive overview of the healthcare commute landscape.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in Silver Creek is likely the personal vehicle. The primary roadways serving the area include US Highway 84, a major east-west artery, and Mississippi Highway 27, running north-south. These highways offer the most direct routes to larger towns like Monticello (the county seat) and Brookhaven, where the majority of healthcare facilities are situated.

Drive times to these facilities vary considerably depending on the specific location within Silver Creek and the destination. Reaching Lawrence County Hospital in Monticello, for example, typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the starting point within the ZIP code. Accessing King's Daughters Medical Center in Brookhaven, a more comprehensive facility, involves a longer drive, ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. These times, while seemingly manageable, can be significantly impacted by weather, road closures, or unexpected delays.

Public **transportation** options in Silver Creek are extremely limited. Lawrence County, like many rural areas, lacks a robust public transit system. There are no fixed-route buses or trains serving the area. This scarcity of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed and their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of these services can also be prohibitive for some residents, further limiting their access to healthcare.

Medical transportation services are available to address the needs of patients requiring specialized assistance. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, providing rapid transport to the nearest hospital. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, such as First Transit or LogistiCare, offer transportation for appointments and other medical needs. However, the availability and coverage of these services may vary depending on insurance coverage and the specific needs of the patient.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these services is a critical consideration. NEMT providers are required to offer accessible vehicles for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and the overall accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves can vary. Ensuring that healthcare facilities are accessible and that transportation options cater to individuals with disabilities is paramount to promoting equitable healthcare access.

The availability of specialty medical services within a reasonable distance is another factor influencing the overall health score. While Lawrence County Hospital provides basic medical care, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Jackson or Hattiesburg for specialized treatments, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures. This further increases travel times and the burden on **transportation** resources.

The healthcare landscape in Silver Creek is also influenced by the availability of primary care physicians, dentists, and other healthcare professionals. The presence of local clinics and medical practices reduces the need for long-distance travel for routine check-ups and preventative care. However, the limited number of healthcare providers in rural areas can lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased competition for services.

The overall health score for Silver Creek residents is therefore a complex calculation, reflecting the interplay of multiple factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential for long travel times to access specialized medical care all contribute to a lower score.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers offers some mitigation, but their cost and availability can be barriers. The absence of robust public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, exacerbating existing health disparities.

The health score is also affected by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. A robust network of primary care physicians and specialists can improve the health score by reducing the need for long-distance travel.

In conclusion, while Silver Creek offers a tranquil rural setting, the healthcare access landscape presents significant challenges. Residents must navigate a complex system of **transportation** options, with the personal vehicle being the primary mode. The limited availability of public transit and the potential for long travel times to access specialized care contribute to a lower overall health score.

Individuals considering **moving to Silver Creek** should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess their ability to access necessary services. This includes considering the potential costs and challenges associated with healthcare commutes, the availability of medical **transportation** options, and the proximity of specialized medical facilities. The health and well-being of Silver Creek residents are directly linked to the availability and accessibility of healthcare services, making this a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move to the area. Improving the health score requires addressing the **transportation** challenges, expanding access to healthcare providers, and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need.