29452, Jacksonboro, South Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 29452, Jacksonboro, South Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 29452 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Colleton Medical Center with a distance of 16.54 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Jacksonboro (ZIP Code 29452)

The crisp air of Jacksonboro, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29452), a rural community nestled in the Lowcountry, offers a certain charm. However, for individuals managing asthma, the serenity of this environment must be carefully balanced with the realities of healthcare access. This 'Asthma Score' write-up assesses the transportation landscape, a critical factor determining the ability to reach essential medical services, impacting the overall well-being of residents, especially those considering moving to Jacksonboro.

The primary concern for asthmatics in Jacksonboro is transportation. The availability of reliable and timely transportation is paramount, influencing the ability to manage asthma effectively. Regular doctor's appointments, specialist consultations, and access to urgent care are crucial for controlling the condition. The Asthma Score will evaluate the different modes of transportation available, considering their accessibility, reliability, and the potential impact on an individual's health.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

The most common mode of transportation in Jacksonboro is personal vehicles. The primary roadways serving the area are the scenic Highway 17 and the smaller, more local roads. The drive to the nearest hospitals and specialty clinics is a significant factor in the Asthma Score.

For residents of Jacksonboro, the closest major hospital is Roper St. Francis in Charleston, roughly a 45-60 minute drive, depending on traffic. The route typically involves taking Highway 17 North, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours. The drive can be stressful for someone experiencing an asthma flare-up, especially if traffic is heavy. The route also includes sections of the I-26, which can have its own traffic issues.

Another option is Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital in Charleston, which can be reached by taking Highway 17 North. The travel time is comparable to Roper St. Francis. The commute time can be a critical factor for those experiencing an asthma attack, as every minute counts.

Smaller medical facilities, such as urgent care clinics and primary care physician offices, are located in nearby towns like Walterboro and Ravenel. Walterboro is a 20-30 minute drive via Highway 17. Ravenel is closer, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Highway 165. These shorter drives are advantageous, offering quicker access to medical care.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in Jacksonboro are limited. The Charleston Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (CARTA) does not directly serve Jacksonboro. The nearest CARTA bus routes are located in Charleston, requiring a significant drive to access them.

For those who rely on public transportation, this is a significant challenge. Individuals would need to arrange a ride to a CARTA stop, adding to the travel time and complexity. The lack of accessible public transportation underscores the need for alternative solutions.

The absence of direct public transportation routes highlights the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for healthcare access. The Asthma Score reflects this limitation, emphasizing the need for other options.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Charleston area, including Jacksonboro. However, their availability and reliability can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas.

The cost of ride-sharing services can also be a barrier for some individuals. The expense of regular rides to medical appointments can strain a budget, potentially impacting healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans and First Response Ambulance, are available for non-emergency and emergency medical transportation. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. However, they can be expensive and may require prior authorization from insurance providers.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers a degree of flexibility, but their cost and reliability must be considered. The Asthma Score weighs these factors, recognizing the need for multiple transportation options.

**ADA Accessibility**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems be accessible to individuals with disabilities. While CARTA buses are ADA-compliant, the lack of direct service to Jacksonboro limits this accessibility.

Ride-sharing services are generally accessible, but individuals with mobility limitations may need assistance. Medical transport services are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, offering specialized vehicles and trained personnel.

The Asthma Score considers the accessibility of available transportation options, recognizing the need for inclusive services for all residents.

**Overall Asthma Score and Recommendations**

The Asthma Score for Jacksonboro (ZIP Code 29452) is moderate. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges for individuals with asthma.

The long drive times to major hospitals, the absence of direct public transportation, and the potential cost of ride-sharing services are all factors that impact the Asthma Score.

**Recommendations:**

* **Explore Carpooling:** Encourage carpooling among residents to share transportation costs and reduce the burden of driving.
* **Advocate for Expanded Public Transportation:** Advocate for the expansion of CARTA services to include Jacksonboro or explore the feasibility of a local shuttle service.
* **Negotiate with Healthcare Providers:** Negotiate with healthcare providers to offer telehealth appointments or home visits, reducing the need for travel.
* **Investigate Medical Transport Options:** Research and understand the cost and availability of medical transport services, including insurance coverage.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Embrace telehealth options for routine check-ups and medication management to reduce the need for frequent travel.
* **Build Community Support:** Foster a supportive community network to assist individuals with asthma, offering transportation assistance and other forms of support.

For individuals considering moving to Jacksonboro with asthma, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. Proactive planning, including understanding travel times, exploring alternative transportation methods, and building a support network, can significantly improve healthcare access and quality of life. The Asthma Score serves as a guide, highlighting the challenges and offering recommendations for navigating the transportation landscape and ensuring optimal asthma management in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community.