39736, Artesia, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39736, Artesia, Mississippi is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.42 percent of residents in 39736 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Och Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Artesia, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39736)

Artesia, Mississippi, a small town nestled in Lowndes County, presents a unique challenge when considering healthcare access. The very fabric of health and well-being is interwoven with the ability to reach medical professionals and facilities. This analysis, offering an "Overall Health Score," examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 39736, focusing on the ease, efficiency, and inclusivity of travel to healthcare providers. For those contemplating moving to Artesia, understanding these transportation dynamics is paramount.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single numerical value, but a composite understanding gleaned from various factors. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation services. Each element contributes to a nuanced picture of how residents can engage with the healthcare system. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation barriers and opportunities that shape healthcare access in Artesia.

One of the most significant factors affecting healthcare access is the reliance on personal vehicles. Artesia's geographical location necessitates driving for most medical appointments. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities in Columbus, Mississippi, are US-82 and MS-182. Depending on the destination and traffic conditions, the drive can range from 15 to 30 minutes. During peak hours, especially in the mornings and late afternoons, congestion can extend travel times. This is a critical consideration for individuals with chronic conditions or those needing urgent care.

The condition of the roads also plays a crucial role. While US-82 is a well-maintained highway, secondary roads leading to specific clinics or hospitals might be less so. This can impact ride comfort, especially for those with mobility issues. Residents should factor in potential delays due to road maintenance or inclement weather when planning medical trips.

Public transportation options in Artesia are limited. The Golden Triangle Regional Airport (GTR) provides some connectivity, but it doesn't directly serve as a healthcare transportation solution. The city of Columbus, approximately 15 minutes away, offers limited public transit. The Columbus-Lowndes County Transit System (CLCTS) operates a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While the CLCTS strives to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, availability can be a constraint, and the service may not be ideal for immediate medical needs. Furthermore, the routes and schedules might not align perfectly with clinic or hospital appointment times.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Columbus and the surrounding areas, including Artesia. However, their availability and cost can vary. In a smaller town like Artesia, the number of drivers might be limited, leading to longer wait times or higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This can be a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles or for individuals who rely on these services for routine medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for those needing assistance. Several providers in the region cater to non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically involve scheduled pick-up and drop-off for medical appointments, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services can be invaluable, they require advance booking, and availability can be a concern, especially during peak periods. The cost of NEMT services can also be a factor, depending on insurance coverage and the specific provider.

The lack of readily available healthcare within Artesia itself is a significant factor in the transportation equation. Residents must travel to Columbus for most medical services. This underscores the importance of reliable transportation options. The distance and potential travel time to healthcare facilities can affect health outcomes, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention. The absence of local healthcare providers also places a greater burden on the transportation infrastructure.

Healthcare access is not solely about physical proximity; it's also about affordability and convenience. The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, adds to the overall expense of healthcare. For low-income residents, these transportation costs can create a significant financial barrier, potentially leading to delayed or missed medical appointments. This economic aspect must be considered when evaluating the "Overall Health Score."

The specific needs of different population groups also warrant consideration. Seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to personal vehicles face unique transportation challenges. The availability of accessible transportation options, such as ADA-compliant public transit or specialized medical transportation services, is crucial for ensuring equitable healthcare access. Furthermore, the design of healthcare facilities, including parking availability and ease of access for individuals with mobility limitations, also contributes to the overall experience.

The "Overall Health Score" for Artesia, Mississippi, is therefore a complex one. While the town benefits from its proximity to Columbus and the availability of major highways, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some relief, but these options come with their own constraints.

Moving to Artesia requires a realistic assessment of these transportation dynamics. Prospective residents should consider their individual healthcare needs, their access to personal transportation, and their ability to navigate the available transportation options. Planning for medical appointments, including factoring in travel time, potential delays, and associated costs, is essential.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for Artesia is a mixed bag. The accessibility of healthcare is influenced by transportation limitations, but the proximity to Columbus offers some relief. The availability of various transportation options, while not perfect, does provide a safety net for those needing medical care. Understanding these complexities is crucial for anyone considering making Artesia their home and for ensuring the well-being of its residents. The key to improving the score lies in strengthening public transit, supporting ride-sharing initiatives, and ensuring the availability of affordable and accessible medical transportation services.