39664, Smithdale, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39664, Smithdale, Mississippi is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.73 percent of residents in 39664 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southwest Ms Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Smithdale (ZIP Code 39664)

Smithdale, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Amite County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and potential challenges, particularly when considering healthcare access. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" for residents within the 39664 ZIP code requires a deep dive into the realities of transportation, the crucial link between individuals and the medical services they require. This analysis will examine the various modes of transportation available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, evaluating their impact on healthcare access and ultimately, the overall health of the community.

The primary mode of transportation in Smithdale, as in many rural areas, is the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on their cars to navigate the distances to healthcare providers. The drive times to essential services are a critical factor in the health score. For instance, the nearest hospital, **South Central Regional Medical Center** in Laurel, is approximately a 50-mile drive, primarily via **US-98** and **I-59**. This journey can take anywhere from an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The drive to **North Oaks Medical Center** in Hammond, Louisiana, is roughly 60 miles, also requiring travel on **US-98** and **I-55**, potentially taking over an hour.

These extended drive times present several challenges. Firstly, they can deter individuals from seeking timely medical attention, especially for preventative care or minor ailments. Secondly, the financial burden of fuel costs and vehicle maintenance adds to the overall cost of healthcare, potentially impacting the ability of residents to afford necessary services. Thirdly, the long travel times can be particularly problematic for individuals with chronic conditions, disabilities, or limited mobility, making it difficult to attend regular appointments and manage their health effectively.

Public transportation options in Smithdale are extremely limited, significantly impacting the overall health score. There are no dedicated public bus routes that serve the 39664 ZIP code. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or have limited financial resources. The absence of accessible public transit also hinders the ability of individuals to reach other essential services, such as pharmacies, grocery stores, and social service agencies, further compounding the challenges of maintaining good health.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas, but their presence in Smithdale is sporadic and their availability is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for many residents, making it an unreliable option for routine medical appointments. The lack of consistent ride-sharing options further diminishes the overall health score, particularly for those who lack other transportation alternatives.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Rural/Metro Corporation** may provide services in the area, offering non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) for individuals who require assistance but do not need an ambulance. These services can be particularly valuable for those with mobility issues, disabilities, or chronic conditions. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may not be readily accessible to all residents.

The overall healthcare access for those **moving to Smithdale** is also impacted by the availability of local healthcare providers. While the town itself may have a clinic or a small medical office, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is likely limited. This necessitates travel to larger cities like Hattiesburg or Baton Rouge for specialized care, further increasing the reliance on transportation and the associated challenges.

The presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features in any transportation options is also a critical factor. If public transit were available, buses and other vehicles would need to be equipped with ramps, lifts, and other accommodations to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Similarly, ride-sharing services should be able to accommodate individuals with mobility issues, providing accessible vehicles upon request. The lack of these features in any available transportation options further reduces the overall health score for individuals with disabilities.

The health score also reflects the potential for telehealth services. The availability of reliable internet connectivity is essential for accessing telehealth appointments, allowing residents to consult with healthcare providers remotely. While telehealth can help mitigate the challenges of long travel times, it is only effective if residents have access to the necessary technology and internet infrastructure.

The overall health score for residents in the 39664 ZIP code is significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transit, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential limitations of medical transportation services all contribute to a lower score. The long drive times to healthcare facilities, the financial burden of transportation costs, and the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities or limited mobility all negatively impact healthcare access and, consequently, the overall health of the community.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transit, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, expanding medical transportation options, and promoting telehealth services are all crucial steps. Furthermore, the availability of local healthcare providers, the implementation of ADA-compliant transportation features, and the improvement of internet infrastructure are essential for ensuring that all residents of Smithdale have equitable access to the healthcare they need.

In conclusion, the overall health score for the 39664 ZIP code is a complex reflection of the interplay between transportation, healthcare access, and the overall well-being of the community. While Smithdale offers the charm of rural living, the limitations in transportation options pose a significant challenge to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments and innovative solutions is essential for improving the overall health and well-being of the residents of Smithdale.