29591, Scranton, South Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 29591, Scranton, South Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.24 percent of residents in 29591 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake City Community Hospital with a distance of 3.29 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 29591

The air hangs thick and humid in ZIP Code 29591, a coastal community where the salty tang of the ocean mingles with the scent of blooming jasmine. For residents managing asthma, this environment presents a unique set of challenges. Beyond the triggers inherent to the climate, the ability to swiftly access quality healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up examines the transportation landscape within and around 29591, focusing on the accessibility of asthma-related healthcare services, and how these factors contribute to an overall "Asthma Score" for the area. Considering moving to Scranton? The ease of healthcare access is a critical factor.

The primary artery for moving through 29591 is US-17 Bypass, a major thoroughfare that snakes its way through the heart of the community. This highway provides access to various medical facilities, including urgent care clinics and primary care physicians. However, during peak tourist season, the road becomes a congested parking lot, significantly extending drive times. Another option is taking Highway 701, a more rural route that offers a less stressful commute, but often adds distance and time to reach specialized asthma care.

For residents without personal vehicles, the public transportation options are limited. The local bus system, known as the Coast RTA, operates a network of routes, but these often run infrequently, especially during evenings and weekends. Route 15, for example, might offer a connection to a clinic, but the wait times between buses could be prohibitive for someone experiencing an asthma exacerbation. ADA accessibility is a consideration, as all Coast RTA buses are equipped with ramps and designated seating. However, the limited route coverage and potential delays can create significant barriers to timely healthcare access, particularly for those living in more remote areas of the ZIP code.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 29591, offering a more flexible transportation option than public transit. While these services can provide a direct route to a doctor's office or pharmacy, the cost can be a significant burden for some residents. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand, like when a weather event causes a spike in asthma attacks, can further exacerbate the financial strain. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing can be unpredictable, especially in areas with limited driver availability, which could delay critical medical attention.

Medical transportation services are another option for those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transport offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often pre-booked and can provide a reliable way to reach appointments. However, they can be expensive and may require advance notice, making them less suitable for urgent situations. The availability of these services and their responsiveness to emergency calls directly impacts the Asthma Score.

The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities within 29591 also plays a crucial role. Proximity to asthma specialists, pulmonologists, and emergency rooms is critical for effective asthma management. While there are several primary care physicians in the area, the availability of specialized asthma care might require traveling outside the ZIP code, potentially increasing travel time and complexity. The distance to the nearest hospital equipped to handle asthma emergencies is a significant factor in assessing the overall accessibility of care.

The Asthma Score for 29591 considers several factors. The average drive time to the nearest urgent care facility, the frequency and reliability of public transportation routes, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized asthma care providers all influence the score. The score also takes into account the availability and responsiveness of medical transportation services, as well as the overall accessibility of emergency medical services.

To calculate the Asthma Score, we assign points based on these factors. Shorter drive times, frequent and reliable public transit, affordable ride-sharing, and the presence of specialized asthma care providers earn higher points. Conversely, longer drive times, infrequent public transit, high ride-sharing costs, and a lack of specialized care providers result in lower points. The final score provides a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities for residents with asthma seeking healthcare access in 29591.

For example, a resident living near US-17 Bypass might have relatively easy access to urgent care, earning a higher score in that category. However, if they rely on public transportation, the limited route coverage and potential delays could negatively impact their score. The availability of affordable ride-sharing services and the proximity of asthma specialists would further influence the overall score.

The impact of the climate on asthma management is another essential element. The high humidity and pollen counts prevalent in 29591 can exacerbate asthma symptoms. This necessitates proactive healthcare, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and timely access to emergency care. The ease of access to these services directly influences the quality of life for residents with asthma.

The healthcare landscape in 29591 is constantly evolving. New clinics and medical facilities are opening, and transportation options are being expanded. However, challenges remain. The limited public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing, and the potential for traffic congestion on US-17 Bypass can create barriers to healthcare access. The Asthma Score provides a valuable tool for understanding these challenges and identifying areas for improvement.

The goal of the Asthma Score is to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation and healthcare access landscape for residents with asthma in 29591. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in their community. Considering moving to Scranton? The availability of specialized care and ease of transportation are vital.

The Asthma Score also serves as a catalyst for change. By highlighting the areas where healthcare access is limited, the score can encourage local authorities and healthcare providers to invest in improved transportation options, expand healthcare services, and implement strategies to mitigate the impact of environmental triggers. The ultimate aim is to create a healthier and more accessible environment for all residents of 29591, especially those living with asthma.

The assessment of the Asthma Score is not a static process. It requires continuous monitoring and evaluation. As transportation infrastructure evolves, healthcare services expand, and environmental conditions change, the score must be updated to reflect these shifts. This ongoing assessment ensures that the Asthma Score remains a relevant and valuable tool for understanding and improving healthcare access in 29591.

The journey to healthcare in 29591 is a complex one, influenced by a confluence of factors. From the congested roads to the limited public transit options, navigating the transportation landscape can be challenging, particularly for those managing a chronic condition like asthma. The Asthma Score provides a framework for understanding these challenges and working towards a future where healthcare access is equitable and efficient for all residents. The score serves as a call to action, urging the community to prioritize the health and well-being of its residents.