29667, Norris, South Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 29667, Norris, South Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.28 percent of residents in 29667 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cannon Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.92 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 29667

The crisp air of the Upstate South Carolina town of Norris, nestled in ZIP Code 29667, might seem idyllic. However, for residents managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare, particularly during an exacerbation, can be a complex equation. This Asthma Score write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around 29667, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities and the potential challenges faced by individuals with asthma. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Norris, as their health and well-being are paramount.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is swift access to medical care during an asthma attack. Time is of the essence. The location of healthcare facilities relative to residential areas, and the efficiency of transportation options, become critical factors in determining an individual's Asthma Score.

The heart of Norris, and much of 29667, is surrounded by rural roads. Driving is the dominant mode of transportation. The nearest hospital, Prisma Health–Oconee Memorial Hospital, is approximately 15-20 minutes away via SC-133 South, and then onto US-76 East. During peak traffic hours, or in the event of an emergency, these times could easily extend. The roads, while generally well-maintained, are subject to weather conditions, potentially adding to travel time during inclement weather.

The secondary healthcare access option is the urgent care facility located in Seneca, roughly a 10-15 minute drive, also via SC-133 South and US-76 East. The distance, though shorter, still presents a challenge for someone struggling to breathe.

Public transportation options within 29667 are extremely limited. The Seneca Transit System, the primary public transportation provider for the area, does not extend its routes into Norris. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who do not drive, or who are unable to drive due to their asthma symptoms. The absence of public transport is a significant negative factor in the Asthma Score for Norris.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability can fluctuate. Availability depends on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. During an asthma attack, summoning a ride-share may be a viable option, but the wait time, and the potential for driver cancellations, must be considered. These services may also be impacted by weather conditions, and the cost can be a burden for some individuals.

Medical transportation services are available, but their utilization requires pre-planning or a referral from a healthcare provider. These services, such as MedTrans, primarily cater to patients with scheduled appointments or those requiring non-emergency medical transport. They are not designed for immediate emergency situations, and the process of arranging transport can be time-consuming.

The Asthma Score also considers the availability of pharmacies. Within Norris, there are no pharmacies. The nearest pharmacy options are located in Seneca, requiring a drive along the same routes used to access medical facilities. This adds another layer of complexity for individuals needing quick access to medication refills or emergency prescriptions.

The availability of ambulance services is a crucial factor. The 911 emergency response system is in place, and ambulance services are available to transport patients to the nearest hospital. However, the response time, influenced by the distance to the hospital and traffic conditions, is a critical factor in the Asthma Score.

The overall Asthma Score for 29667 is moderately challenging. While the proximity to healthcare facilities is reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for delays due to traffic or weather conditions, create potential barriers to healthcare access, especially during an asthma exacerbation.

Considerations for improving the Asthma Score in Norris would include: advocating for public transportation expansion to the area, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting awareness of medical transportation options. Educating residents about asthma management, including the importance of having an asthma action plan and readily available medication, is also crucial.

Moving to Norris with asthma requires careful planning. Individuals should assess their personal transportation needs, identify the closest healthcare facilities and pharmacies, and establish a plan for emergencies. They should also consider the potential impact of weather and traffic on their ability to access healthcare.

The Asthma Score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experience of individuals with asthma. The goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their location, has timely and reliable access to the healthcare they need. The challenges of accessing healthcare in 29667, particularly for individuals with asthma, highlight the importance of proactive planning and a commitment to improving transportation and healthcare access for all residents. The serenity of Norris should not be overshadowed by the anxiety of healthcare access.