29555, Johnsonville, South Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 29555, Johnsonville, South Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.56 percent of residents in 29555 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake City Community Hospital with a distance of 16.79 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Johnsonville, SC (ZIP Code 29555)

The air hangs heavy with humidity in Johnsonville, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29555), a rural community nestled in Florence County. For those managing asthma, the quality of their **healthcare access** is paramount, inextricably linked to the ease with which they can reach medical care. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the **transportation** landscape of Johnsonville, analyzing the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking treatment, particularly considering the specific needs of individuals managing asthma. If you are **moving to Johnsonville**, understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining your health and well-being.

The primary challenge in Johnsonville is its relative isolation. While the town itself offers limited medical services, specialized care is primarily located in Florence, approximately 20 miles away. This distance, coupled with the limited public **transportation** options, creates a significant hurdle for those with chronic respiratory conditions. The Asthma Score, therefore, must account for the time, cost, and accessibility of various modes of transport to medical facilities.

The most direct route to Florence from Johnsonville is via US-378 East. This two-lane highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly around Florence. The drive, under normal conditions, takes roughly 30 minutes. However, this time can be significantly extended due to accidents or inclement weather, which is a crucial consideration for individuals experiencing an asthma attack. The secondary route involves taking SC-41 North, which then merges onto US-76 East, ultimately connecting to US-52 East, and then into Florence. This route adds about 10 minutes to the journey, but it could be a viable alternative if US-378 is blocked.

Public **transportation** in Johnsonville is severely limited. The Pee Dee Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PDRTA) offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service is available to residents of Florence County, but it's not a scheduled bus route. This service is particularly difficult for people with asthma. Scheduling is often required days in advance, and the service is limited. The PDRTA vehicles are supposedly equipped with ADA features, including wheelchair lifts, but the reliability and availability of this service are subject to demand and resource constraints. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, operate in the Florence area, but their availability in Johnsonville is sporadic. Even if a ride can be secured, the cost can be substantial, especially considering the distance to Florence and the potential for surge pricing during periods of high demand. The reliance on these services, therefore, presents a financial burden, potentially deterring residents from seeking timely medical attention. The variable nature of ride-share availability is a critical factor in the Asthma Score, particularly for those with unpredictable asthma symptoms.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available. However, these services are typically reserved for urgent situations or individuals with specific medical needs. The cost of NEMT can be significant, and the availability of these services can be limited, particularly during peak demand. Ambulance services are, of course, reserved for emergencies, and their use should be reserved for life-threatening situations. The reliance on these services is a sign of a severe lack of **healthcare access**.

The Asthma Score for Johnsonville, therefore, must reflect the following: the drive-time to Florence, the limitations of public **transportation**, the unpredictable availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on emergency medical services. The score should also account for the potential impact of weather conditions and traffic congestion on travel times.

Considering the challenges, the Asthma Score for Johnsonville, SC (ZIP Code 29555) is relatively low. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation**, and the potential cost of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to **healthcare access** for individuals managing asthma.

For those **moving to Johnsonville** with asthma, careful planning is essential. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in Florence is crucial. Ensuring reliable **transportation**, whether through personal vehicles, family support, or pre-arranged ride-sharing, is paramount. Exploring options for telehealth appointments, where appropriate, can also help mitigate the challenges of accessing in-person care.

Furthermore, residents should be aware of the local emergency services and their response times. Knowing the nearest emergency room and the protocols for accessing medical assistance is critical in the event of an asthma attack.

Finally, advocating for improved **transportation** options and increased access to healthcare services within the community is essential. This could involve supporting initiatives to expand public **transportation** or advocating for the establishment of a local clinic offering specialized respiratory care.

In conclusion, while Johnsonville offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, its **transportation** infrastructure poses significant challenges for individuals with asthma. The Asthma Score reflects the limitations of **healthcare access** and underscores the need for proactive planning and community involvement to ensure that residents can receive the timely and appropriate medical care they need.