29335, Enoree, South Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 29335, Enoree, South Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.45 percent of residents in 29335 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital with a distance of 13.18 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Enoree, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29335)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and possibility in Enoree, South Carolina. Nestled in the heart of Spartanburg County, this charming community offers a slower pace of life, a haven for those seeking respite from the frenetic energy of larger cities. However, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: navigating the complexities of healthcare access. This write-up, the “Asthma Score,” assesses the feasibility of accessing essential medical care, specifically focusing on transportation options within and from ZIP Code 29335. It is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Enoree or seeking improved healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical professionals promptly and reliably. For residents of Enoree, this often translates to a dependence on personal vehicles. The primary arteries connecting Enoree to healthcare facilities are South Carolina Highway 9 (SC-9) and Interstate 26 (I-26). SC-9, a two-lane road, winds its way through the town, offering a direct route to Spartanburg, approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. This route leads to Spartanburg Medical Center, a major healthcare provider.

I-26, a major interstate, provides a faster, albeit potentially more congested, route to both Spartanburg and Greenville. The drive to Spartanburg via I-26 is roughly 20-25 minutes, while Greenville, with its more extensive medical infrastructure, is about a 40-45 minute journey. However, consider the potential for traffic delays, especially during peak hours, which could significantly impact a patient's ability to reach a doctor or hospital in a timely manner, especially during an asthma attack.

The dependence on personal vehicles highlights a potential vulnerability for individuals without access to a car or those unable to drive. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation options, which are, unfortunately, limited in Enoree and the surrounding area.

Public transportation options are sparse in this rural setting. The Spartanburg Area Regional Transit Agency (SPARTA) provides bus service throughout Spartanburg County, but its routes are limited and infrequent in Enoree. The primary SPARTA route serving the area is Route 12, which travels along SC-9. However, this route operates on a limited schedule, typically running only during weekday business hours, and with long wait times between buses.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, equipped with features like ramps and wheelchair lifts, is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. SPARTA does offer ADA-compliant buses, but their availability on specific routes and schedules needs to be confirmed. This is vital information for individuals with asthma who may experience mobility issues during an attack.

The lack of robust public transportation places a significant burden on individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This can create a barrier to accessing routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and emergency care, exacerbating the challenges faced by those managing asthma.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Spartanburg area, offering a potential alternative for transportation. However, their availability in Enoree can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially making it an unaffordable option for regular medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services is another consideration, as delays or cancellations could have serious consequences for individuals experiencing an asthma attack.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. Several companies operate in the Spartanburg area, including First Call Medical Transportation and MedTrans. These services typically provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited, especially for short-notice appointments. Confirming insurance coverage for these services is crucial.

The "Asthma Score" for transportation in Enoree, therefore, reveals a mixed bag. While the proximity to Spartanburg and Greenville offers access to a range of healthcare providers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options create significant challenges. The lack of robust public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services contribute to a higher level of vulnerability for individuals with asthma.

For individuals considering moving to Enoree, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Factors to consider include access to a personal vehicle, the ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

The location of healthcare providers is also a key factor. While Spartanburg Medical Center is relatively accessible, individuals with specific medical needs may need to travel to Greenville, which entails a longer commute. Therefore, the proximity to specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, should be considered when evaluating the overall healthcare access.

In conclusion, while Enoree offers a peaceful and appealing environment, the "Asthma Score" highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration for individuals managing asthma. The limited transportation options necessitate proactive strategies to ensure timely and reliable access to medical care. This may involve establishing relationships with healthcare providers in Spartanburg, exploring options for transportation assistance, and ensuring access to emergency services. For those considering moving to Enoree, a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is essential to ensure a successful transition and maintain optimal health.