29133, Rowesville, South Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 29133, Rowesville, South Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.51 percent of residents in 29133 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Trmc Of Orangeburg & Calhoun with a distance of 10.88 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rowesville, SC (ZIP Code 29133)

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental aspect of well-being, takes on added significance when considering the challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. This write-up, an "Alzheimer's Score" analysis, examines the accessibility of healthcare within ZIP Code 29133, Rowesville, South Carolina, a rural community where transportation options are limited and healthcare access can be a significant hurdle. This score aims to provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape, highlighting the complexities and potential pitfalls for those seeking medical attention. If you are considering moving to Rowesville, this information will be important to assess your healthcare access.

Rowesville, nestled in Orangeburg County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The area's rural character means that the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. Public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport are less prevalent than in more urban environments. The "Alzheimer's Score" considers these factors, providing a realistic evaluation of the transportation challenges.

**Drive-Time and Road Network:**

The backbone of transportation in Rowesville is the road network. Accessing healthcare often involves navigating a network of highways and local roads. From Rowesville, the most direct route to Orangeburg, the county seat and a hub for medical services, is via US-21, a major north-south artery. The drive is typically around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential hazards include wildlife crossings, especially at dawn and dusk, and occasional delays due to agricultural traffic.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to Columbia, the state capital, approximately an hour's drive away. This journey involves taking US-21 to I-26 East, a major interstate highway. While I-26 offers a faster route, it can experience heavy traffic during peak hours, potentially increasing travel time. The drive to the nearest major hospital in Columbia, Prisma Health Richland, can easily exceed an hour, a significant consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's who may experience anxiety or disorientation during extended travel.

Smaller, local roads such as SC-33 and SC-40 are also used for travel within the area. These roads, while offering alternative routes, are often narrower, less well-lit, and may have limited shoulder space, making them less desirable for those with mobility issues or cognitive impairments. The ability to navigate these roads safely is paramount.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Rowesville are limited. Orangeburg County operates a public transit system, but service frequency and route coverage are restricted, particularly in rural areas. The system primarily serves Orangeburg, and access to Rowesville may involve a transfer or a lengthy travel time. Information about specific routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is crucial.

The Orangeburg County Transportation System (OCTS) offers limited fixed-route services. These routes may not directly serve Rowesville, necessitating a connection or a ride-share service. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a critical factor. Individuals with mobility challenges or those using wheelchairs must be able to access the transit system. Information regarding ramps, lifts, and priority seating is vital.

To determine the "Alzheimer's Score," it is necessary to investigate the frequency of service, the distance to the nearest bus stop, and the overall accessibility of the system. The lack of readily available public transit options adds to the transportation burden for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Rowesville can vary. The response time for a ride-share may be longer than in urban areas, potentially delaying access to medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, are another option. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist passengers. Several medical transport brands serve the area, including companies that specialize in non-emergency medical transportation. The availability of these services, their cost, and their ability to accommodate individuals with Alzheimer's are critical factors.

The "Alzheimer's Score" considers the availability of ride-sharing services, the response times, and the cost-effectiveness of these options. The availability of medical transport services, the types of vehicles available, and the training of the personnel are also assessed.

**Healthcare Access and the "Alzheimer's Score":**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Rowesville, SC (29133) is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The score assesses the ease of accessing healthcare, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing reliability, and medical transport options. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score reflects greater challenges.

The score will consider the following:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to the nearest primary care physician, specialist, and hospital.
* **Public Transit:** The availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-Share:** The availability, response times, and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and specialized services offered by medical transport companies.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** Access to pharmacies for medication refills.

**Implications for Individuals with Alzheimer's and Their Caregivers:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" provides valuable information for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The score helps them understand the transportation challenges they may face when accessing healthcare. This information can be used to plan for medical appointments, explore alternative transportation options, and advocate for improved healthcare access in the community.

For example, if the "Alzheimer's Score" is low, caregivers may need to rely on personal vehicles, which may require them to take time off work or enlist the help of family and friends. They may also need to explore medical transport services. The score can also highlight the need for increased public transit options or ride-sharing services.

**Conclusion:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Rowesville, SC (29133) is a multifaceted assessment of healthcare accessibility. The rural nature of the community, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant transportation challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. This score provides a critical overview of these challenges and encourages a deeper understanding of the transportation landscape. The score is a valuable tool for anyone considering moving to Rowesville or seeking to improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations. The goal is to foster a community where healthcare is accessible, regardless of transportation limitations.