29569, Loris, South Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 29569, Loris, South Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.72 percent of residents in 29569 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lighthouse Behavioral Health Hospital with a distance of 17.95 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Loris, SC (ZIP Code 29569)

The rhythmic wheeze, the constricting chest, the desperate gasp for air – asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, demands swift and reliable access to healthcare. For residents of Loris, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29569), this necessity intertwines with the challenges of **transportation** and the geographical realities of a rural community. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare, specifically focusing on how easily a person with asthma can reach medical care from their home, factoring in drive times, public transit, and alternative **transportation** options. This is especially pertinent for anyone **moving to Loris**, as it highlights the practical considerations of **healthcare access**.

The very fabric of Loris is woven with the threads of roadways. Primary routes are crucial for navigating the terrain, impacting **healthcare access** directly. Highway 701, the main artery, snakes through the heart of Loris, connecting residents to vital services. Southbound, it offers a direct route to Conway, the county seat, where the McLeod Health hospital complex provides comprehensive medical care. Northbound, Highway 701 leads to Tabor City, NC, and eventually Wilmington, NC, offering additional, albeit further, healthcare options.

Highway 9, another significant thoroughfare, intersects Highway 701 in Loris. This route provides alternative access to Conway, and also heads towards the coast, opening up possibilities for specialized pulmonary care in Myrtle Beach. The drive times along these highways are generally favorable, but the traffic flow can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or tourist season.

The drive to McLeod Health Conway, the closest major hospital, typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. This is the primary destination for emergency care, specialist appointments, and advanced asthma treatments. The drive to Grand Strand Medical Center in Myrtle Beach is a bit longer, around 45-60 minutes, but it expands the options for specialized pulmonary care.

Public **transportation** in Loris is limited. The Grand Strand Area **Transportation** System (GTS) offers some routes, but the coverage is sparse, and the schedules are often infrequent. The primary route that serves Loris is Route 10, which connects Loris to Conway. However, the frequency of this route is limited, and the travel time is significantly longer than driving, due to multiple stops. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor for individuals with asthma, particularly those with mobility limitations. GTS buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, but the limited route options and extended travel times pose significant challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. Medical **transportation** services, such as LogistiCare and Medical **Transportation** Management (MTM), are also available, but these services often require pre-authorization and may have limitations on the types of appointments they cover. They are primarily designed for non-emergency medical **transportation** for Medicaid and Medicare patients.

The availability of pharmacies is another critical component of **healthcare access**. Loris has several pharmacies, including chain pharmacies and independent pharmacies, which provide convenient access to asthma medications. However, the distance to specialty pharmacies, which may carry specific medications or offer compounding services, could be a factor for some patients.

The quality of life in Loris is often praised for its slower pace and close-knit community. However, the geographical isolation and limited public **transportation** options present challenges for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor, particularly for those who may not be able to drive due to their condition or other limitations.

The **transportation** infrastructure of Loris, including the condition of roads and the availability of sidewalks, also plays a role in **healthcare access**. Well-maintained roads and sidewalks are essential for safe and efficient travel, especially for those with mobility issues.

For individuals **moving to Loris** with asthma, careful consideration of **healthcare access** is paramount. While the drive times to major hospitals are manageable, the limited public **transportation** options and the reliance on personal vehicles require careful planning. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers offers some alternatives, but their reliability and cost should be carefully evaluated.

The "Asthma Score" for Loris, SC (ZIP Code 29569), therefore, is moderate. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Conway and Myrtle Beach is a significant advantage, the limitations of public **transportation** and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges. Individuals with asthma should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and explore all available options to ensure they can access timely and effective medical care. The best strategy is to plan ahead, establish relationships with local healthcare providers, and become familiar with the available **transportation** resources. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining good asthma control and enjoying the quality of life that Loris offers.