29902, Beaufort, South Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 29902, Beaufort, South Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.79 percent of residents in 29902 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaufort County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.16 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 29902

The salt-laced air of Beaufort, South Carolina, might beckon with promises of coastal tranquility, but for individuals managing asthma, the practicalities of healthcare access are paramount. This write-up, tailored for ZIP code 29902, delves into the intricacies of transportation options, crucial for understanding the "Asthma Score" – a measure of how easily residents can reach essential medical care. This is especially vital for those considering moving to Beaufort, requiring a clear understanding of the landscape.

The primary concern is the time and effort required to reach a healthcare provider, particularly during an asthma exacerbation. This involves assessing the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and considering the potential for delays due to traffic, weather, and other unforeseen circumstances. This analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation infrastructure, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses concerning healthcare access.

For those who drive, the journey to healthcare often begins on **US-21**, the main artery slicing through Beaufort. This highway, connecting to surrounding communities, is often the quickest route to Beaufort Memorial Hospital, a central healthcare hub. Depending on the specific location within 29902, drive times to the hospital can vary. Residents in the heart of downtown Beaufort might reach the hospital in under 10 minutes, while those further north, near **Highway 170**, could face a 20-minute drive, especially during peak hours.

Navigating **Highway 170** can be a challenge. It's a vital route, but its often-congested lanes can significantly impact travel times, particularly during the morning and evening commutes. The same goes for **Highway 802**, which offers an alternate route, but is also subject to traffic. The Asthma Score must account for these potential delays, especially for individuals experiencing an asthma attack, where every minute counts.

Beyond the hospital, other healthcare providers, including specialists and urgent care facilities, are scattered throughout the area. Accessing these providers may require navigating a web of smaller roads, such as **Sea Island Parkway**, **Carteret Street**, and various residential streets. The condition of these roads, their proximity to traffic lights, and the availability of parking all contribute to the overall transportation picture.

Public transportation, while present, offers limited options. The **Lowcountry Regional Transportation Authority (LCRTA)** provides bus services, though routes within 29902 are relatively sparse. Route 1, for example, might offer a connection to the hospital, but frequency and coverage are limited. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is crucial for individuals with mobility issues, a factor that must be considered in the Asthma Score. The LCRTA website provides detailed route maps and schedules.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Beaufort, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent healthcare appointments. For individuals with asthma, who may require frequent visits to their doctor or the emergency room, the cost of transportation can quickly add up.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or other medical needs, provide another option. Companies like **Care Ride** and **Angel Ride** offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific requirements, such as the need for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Their availability and pricing should be factored into the Asthma Score.

The Asthma Score also needs to consider the proximity of pharmacies. Access to medication is critical for managing asthma, and the ability to quickly obtain prescriptions is essential. Pharmacies are located throughout the area, but their proximity to transportation routes and the availability of drive-through services can significantly impact their accessibility.

Weather conditions in Beaufort, particularly during hurricane season, can also impact transportation. Flooding, road closures, and power outages can disrupt travel, making it difficult to reach healthcare providers. The Asthma Score should take into account the potential for these disruptions and the availability of emergency services during adverse weather events.

The overall Asthma Score for 29902 will be influenced by a combination of factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options all contribute to the score. The score should also account for the cost of transportation, the availability of pharmacies, and the potential for weather-related disruptions.

For individuals considering moving to Beaufort, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. The Asthma Score provides a valuable framework for assessing healthcare access, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Researching the specific locations of healthcare providers, understanding the public transit routes, and exploring the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services are all crucial steps in evaluating the Asthma Score.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that individuals with asthma can readily access the medical care they need, regardless of their location within 29902. By carefully evaluating the transportation options and considering the potential challenges, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can live comfortably and safely in Beaufort. The Asthma Score is a critical tool in this process, providing a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health.