39766, Steens, Mississippi Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 39766, Steens, Mississippi is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.42 percent of residents in 39766 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bmh-Golden Triangle with a distance of 7.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 39766

The journey to healthcare in ZIP Code 39766, encompassing the rural heart of Steens, Mississippi, is a complex tapestry woven with threads of geography, limited resources, and the inherent challenges of **transportation**. Assessing the overall health score necessitates a deep dive into the realities of accessing medical services, a critical factor for anyone considering **moving to Steens** or residing within its boundaries. This analysis will explore the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of the healthcare landscape.

The primary obstacle to healthcare access in 39766 is distance. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Starkville, approximately 40 miles away, and Columbus, roughly 50 miles distant. These distances, while seemingly manageable, translate into considerable travel times, especially considering the winding, often poorly maintained roads that characterize the region.

The primary artery connecting Steens to the outside world is Highway 182. This two-lane highway, while providing a direct route, is subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Secondary roads, such as County Road 10 and County Road 12, offer alternative routes but are often narrower, with lower speed limits, and may be subject to flooding during heavy rains. The condition of these roads significantly impacts travel times and the safety of patients seeking medical care.

Drive times to Starkville, under ideal conditions, can range from 45 minutes to an hour. Columbus, being further away, typically demands a drive of 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, these estimates are subject to change based on weather conditions, traffic, and the vehicle's performance. Unexpected delays can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with seeking medical attention, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or urgent needs.

Public transit options within 39766 are severely limited. The primary provider of public transportation in the region is the Golden Triangle Area Development District (GTADD). While GTADD offers demand-response services, these are not designed to be a primary mode of transport for medical appointments. The availability of these services is limited, requiring advance booking and often involving significant wait times.

GTADD's services are not specifically tailored to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities, and there is no indication of ADA-compliant features in their vehicles. This deficiency poses a significant barrier for those with mobility limitations, making access to healthcare even more challenging. The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the dependence on private vehicles for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are largely absent in 39766. The low population density and limited demand make it economically unviable for these companies to operate within the area. This leaves residents with limited options, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The reliance on personal vehicles further highlights the importance of reliable **transportation** for maintaining good health.

Medical transport services are available, but their scope and accessibility are limited. Ambulance services are primarily reserved for emergency situations, and their availability can be affected by the remoteness of the area. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, such as those contracted by Medicaid or private insurance companies, may offer services for scheduled appointments. However, the availability of NEMT can be limited, and the process of securing these services can be complex and time-consuming.

The limited availability of these services can create significant challenges for individuals requiring regular medical care, such as those undergoing dialysis or chemotherapy. The burden of arranging and coordinating **transportation** can be overwhelming, potentially leading to missed appointments and compromised health outcomes. The lack of readily available medical transport exacerbates the existing barriers to **healthcare access** in 39766.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 39766 is significantly impacted by the challenges of **transportation**. The long distances to medical facilities, the limited public transit options, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the restricted availability of medical transport all contribute to a low score. This situation presents a significant hurdle for residents seeking timely and convenient access to medical care.

Considering **moving to Steens** requires a careful assessment of these factors. Individuals with chronic conditions or those who rely on regular medical appointments must consider the implications of limited access to healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for long travel times, and the absence of readily available alternatives necessitate careful planning and consideration.

The health score is also affected by the availability of healthcare providers within the ZIP code. While the presence of local clinics and family practices can mitigate some of the challenges associated with long distances, the availability of specialists and advanced medical services is often limited. Residents may need to travel to Starkville or Columbus for specialized care, further increasing the burden of **transportation**.

The impact of these factors extends beyond the physical challenges of accessing healthcare. The stress and anxiety associated with long travel times, the potential for missed appointments, and the financial burden of vehicle maintenance and fuel costs can all negatively impact mental and emotional well-being. The absence of readily available support services, such as transportation assistance programs or community health initiatives, further exacerbates these challenges.

The overall health score for 39766 underscores the need for innovative solutions to improve **healthcare access**. Investing in improved road infrastructure, expanding public transit options, and exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services could significantly improve the situation. Promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of mobile medical units could also help bridge the gap between residents and healthcare providers.

Addressing the challenges of **transportation** is essential for improving the overall health and well-being of residents in 39766. The current limitations in **healthcare access** create a significant barrier to achieving optimal health outcomes. By recognizing these challenges and implementing targeted solutions, the community can work towards creating a healthier and more equitable healthcare environment for all.