29568, Longs, South Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 29568, Longs, South Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.18 percent of residents in 29568 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grand Strand Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.02 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Longs, SC (ZIP Code 29568)

The golden years, often envisioned as a time of ease and tranquility, can be shadowed by the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. For those considering a move to Longs, South Carolina (ZIP code 29568), or already residing there, understanding the practicalities of healthcare access becomes paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" delves into the transportation landscape, a critical element in ensuring consistent and reliable healthcare for individuals facing this challenging condition. Our focus is on the realities of *transportation* options, *healthcare access*, and how they intersect within the context of *moving to Longs* or aging in place.

Longs, a charming community nestled in Horry County, offers a slower pace of life, a draw for many seeking a peaceful retirement. However, its relative remoteness necessitates careful consideration of transportation infrastructure, especially for those requiring frequent medical appointments. The ability to easily access healthcare, including specialized services for Alzheimer's, is a cornerstone of a fulfilling life.

The primary artery for vehicular *transportation* in and out of Longs is Highway 9, a major thoroughfare connecting the town to larger population centers. Driving to healthcare facilities in the area is the most common mode of travel. From Longs, a drive to McLeod Loris Hospital, a critical access hospital, typically takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive primarily involves Highway 9 and occasionally requires a turn onto Main Street in Loris.

For more specialized care, such as neurology or memory care specialists, residents often travel to the Grand Strand Medical Center in Myrtle Beach. This journey, encompassing approximately 25 to 40 minutes, utilizes Highway 9, then transitions onto Highway 22 (Conway Bypass) and eventually onto US-17 Bypass. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and tourist season, can significantly impact these drive times.

Another option is Conway Medical Center, located in Conway, which can be reached via Highway 9, then taking Highway 701. The drive to Conway Medical Center is also about 25 to 40 minutes. The condition of the roads, while generally well-maintained, can be a factor. During periods of inclement weather, such as heavy rain or occasional hurricanes, travel times can be extended, and road closures are a possibility.

Public *transportation* options are limited in Longs and Horry County. The Coast RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) provides bus service, but routes and frequency are limited, particularly in rural areas. While the Coast RTA does offer some routes that serve the Longs area, they may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities and often involve transfers.

For example, to reach the Grand Strand Medical Center from Longs using public transit, one would likely need to take a bus on Route 15 from Loris to Myrtle Beach, then transfer to another route to reach the hospital. This journey could take well over an hour, making it a less-than-ideal option for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience cognitive challenges and require a more direct and predictable mode of *transportation*.

Furthermore, the Coast RTA does offer ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited route coverage and potential for lengthy travel times make public *transportation* a less practical solution for many residents with Alzheimer's. The lack of frequent service, particularly on weekends and evenings, further compounds the challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Longs area. However, their reliability and availability can vary. During peak hours or periods of high demand, wait times can be significant. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a concern, especially for frequent medical appointments. For individuals with Alzheimer's, the reliance on ride-sharing requires careful planning and coordination, often involving family members or caregivers.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer another alternative. Companies like Med-Ride and First Choice Medical *Transportation* provide non-emergency medical *transportation* services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific service areas.

The cost of medical *transportation* can vary depending on the distance, the type of service required, and the insurance coverage. It is crucial to investigate insurance coverage options, including Medicare and Medicaid, to determine if medical *transportation* services are covered.

For those *moving to Longs* or considering it, the availability of family support is critical. Having family members or caregivers who can provide *transportation* assistance is a significant advantage. Caregivers can assist with appointment scheduling, *transportation*, and accompanying the individual to medical appointments, providing emotional support and ensuring their safety.

The availability of in-home care services is another essential consideration. Home healthcare agencies can provide skilled nursing care, medication management, and personal care assistance. These services can help individuals with Alzheimer's remain in their homes for as long as possible, reducing the need for frequent *transportation* to healthcare facilities.

The *healthcare access* landscape in Longs presents a mixed bag. While the community offers a tranquil setting, the relatively limited public *transportation* options and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, can be impacted by traffic and weather conditions.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* offers alternative options, but their reliability and cost must be considered. The presence of family support and in-home care services can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's in Longs.

When evaluating the "Alzheimer's Score" for Longs, it's important to weigh the advantages of a peaceful environment against the practicalities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. For those *moving to Longs* or already residing there, proactive planning, including assessing *transportation* needs, exploring available resources, and establishing a strong support network, is crucial to ensure access to timely and appropriate healthcare. The key is to create a comprehensive plan that addresses the specific needs of the individual with Alzheimer's, allowing them to navigate the challenges of the disease while enjoying the benefits of living in this charming community.