39735, Ackerman, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39735, Ackerman, Mississippi is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.54 percent of residents in 39735 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Choctaw Regional Medical Center with a distance of 0.88 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39735

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Ackerman, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39735), focusing on their access to healthcare. The score considers transportation options, drive times, and the availability of various medical services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Ackerman, as healthcare access significantly impacts overall well-being. We'll explore the landscape, offering a detailed perspective on navigating the healthcare system within and around this rural community.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single numerical value. Instead, it's a comprehensive assessment reflecting the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. Factors like proximity to medical facilities, available modes of *transportation*, and the presence of specialized care all contribute to the overall picture. This write-up aims to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities residents face in accessing the care they need.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

The primary mode of *transportation* for healthcare in Ackerman is undoubtedly the automobile. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles to reach medical facilities. The most direct route to larger hospitals and specialist care often involves traveling on Highway 12, a critical artery connecting Ackerman to surrounding towns and cities.

The drive time to the nearest major hospital, North Mississippi Medical Center in West Point, Mississippi, is approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Ackerman. This drive entails navigating Highway 12, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours. Another option is to travel south on Highway 15, which can be used to connect to Highway 82 for access to Starkville, Mississippi, and its healthcare options, including OCH Regional Medical Center, which can take up to an hour.

For routine appointments and primary care, residents may find services within Ackerman itself. However, specialized care often necessitates longer drives. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is limited within Ackerman. Therefore, residents often face extended travel times to access these essential services.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Ackerman are extremely limited. There is no formal public bus system operating within the town. The absence of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

While no fixed-route bus service exists, the possibility of utilizing the Mississippi Department of Human Services' (MDHS) *transportation* services for eligible individuals should be investigated. These services, primarily for Medicaid recipients, may provide limited access to medical appointments. However, eligibility requirements and service availability can vary.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant *transportation* is a critical consideration. The lack of accessible public transit creates significant challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The absence of ramps, lifts, and other accommodations further restricts their ability to access healthcare.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Ackerman. This absence further compounds the *transportation* challenges. Residents cannot easily summon a ride to medical appointments, leaving them dependent on personal vehicles or relying on assistance from family and friends.

Medical *transportation* services are available, but their availability and cost can vary. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical *transportation* providers, are typically reserved for patients requiring stretcher or wheelchair transport. These services can be costly, especially for non-emergency appointments.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical *transportation* brands may serve the Ackerman area. These include local ambulance services and regional medical *transportation* companies. It's essential to research and contact these providers directly to inquire about their services, coverage areas, and pricing.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

The availability of healthcare providers within Ackerman is a crucial factor. Residents have access to primary care physicians, but the availability of specialists is limited. This necessitates travel to larger cities like West Point or Starkville for specialized medical care.

The cost of healthcare is another significant consideration. The cost of *transportation* to medical appointments, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees, adds to the overall healthcare expenses. The availability of health insurance and financial assistance programs is crucial for mitigating these costs.

**Moving to Ackerman: Healthcare as a Factor**

For individuals considering *moving to Ackerman*, healthcare access should be a primary consideration. The limited *transportation* options and the need for travel to access specialized care present challenges. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and evaluate their ability to manage the *transportation* requirements.

Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should give particularly careful thought to the healthcare landscape. It's advisable to research the availability of specialists, the drive times to medical facilities, and the potential costs associated with *transportation*.

**Conclusion: A Complex Landscape**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of Ackerman, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39735), reflects a complex landscape. While primary care is available within the community, access to specialized care and the lack of public *transportation* pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for lengthy drive times to access specialized services are critical factors to consider.

Individuals contemplating *moving to Ackerman* must carefully weigh these factors. Understanding the *transportation* limitations and the availability of healthcare services is crucial for making an informed decision. While Ackerman offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, the healthcare access challenges should be carefully considered. The absence of readily available public *transportation* and the need for reliance on personal vehicles or medical *transportation* services significantly impact the overall health score. The score is lower than areas with robust public *transportation* and a wide range of healthcare options.