29905, Beaufort, South Carolina Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 29905, Beaufort, South Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

98.30 percent of residents in 29905 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaufort County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.03 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 29905

For individuals considering a move to Beaufort, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29905), particularly those managing asthma, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" – a composite measure reflecting the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical facilities equipped to manage asthma, including specialists and emergency care. The score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and aims to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility within the ZIP code.

Beaufort, a charming Lowcountry town, presents a unique blend of historical beauty and modern amenities. However, its geographical layout and the dispersed nature of healthcare providers necessitate careful consideration of transportation options. The Asthma Score will factor in drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about moving to Beaufort and ensuring timely access to necessary medical care.

The primary healthcare facility serving the 29905 ZIP code is Beaufort Memorial Hospital. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including an emergency department and specialized respiratory care, essential for asthma management. Assessing the commute to Beaufort Memorial Hospital forms the cornerstone of our Asthma Score.

**Driving Times: The Road to Relief**

The most common mode of transportation in Beaufort is the personal vehicle. Driving times to Beaufort Memorial Hospital from various points within the 29905 ZIP code will be analyzed. These times will be influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours.

From the heart of downtown Beaufort, accessing the hospital typically involves a short drive. Residents can utilize **US-21** (Sea Island Parkway) which provides a direct route. The drive, generally less than 10 minutes, offers relatively smooth traffic flow, especially outside rush hour.

For residents residing in the northern reaches of the ZIP code, such as those near **Highway 170**, the journey might be slightly longer. The route typically involves navigating **Highway 170** and connecting to **US-21**. Expect a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Those living in the southern part of the ZIP code, closer to the islands, will find access to the hospital a bit more complex. Navigating the narrow roads and bridges can add travel time. The drive typically involves using **US-21** and may take anywhere from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic.

The Asthma Score will factor in these varying drive times, recognizing that longer commute times can exacerbate stress and potentially delay access to urgent care during an asthma exacerbation. Understanding these nuances is crucial for those considering moving to Beaufort.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Beaufort's public transportation system, while present, is not extensive. The Palmetto Breeze Transit provides bus service within the county. However, the routes and frequency are limited, particularly for accessing medical facilities.

The primary route serving the 29905 ZIP code is Route 1, which travels along **US-21** and connects to Beaufort Memorial Hospital. While this route offers a direct link, the frequency of service is limited, with buses typically running on hourly schedules.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. Palmetto Breeze Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route network and infrequent service make public transit a less viable option for many asthma sufferers, especially during emergencies.

The Asthma Score will reflect the limitations of public transit, acknowledging that it may not be a reliable or efficient means of accessing healthcare for individuals with asthma. The lack of frequent service and potential for extended travel times are significant considerations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Growing Landscape**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Beaufort. These services offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, particularly for those who do not drive or prefer not to drive.

The availability and response times of ride-sharing services can vary depending on demand and driver availability. During peak hours or in remote areas, wait times can be longer. However, for accessing Beaufort Memorial Hospital, ride-sharing provides a viable option.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical appointments, are also present in the area. Companies like MedStar and First Choice Medical Transportation offer transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve specific fees.

The Asthma Score will incorporate the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, recognizing their potential to improve healthcare access. However, the score will also consider the cost and reliability of these services, particularly during emergencies.

**Emergency Response: Time is of the Essence**

In the event of an asthma exacerbation, timely access to emergency care is critical. The Asthma Score will evaluate the efficiency of emergency medical services (EMS) response times within the 29905 ZIP code.

The Beaufort County EMS system provides emergency medical services, including ambulance transport to Beaufort Memorial Hospital. Response times can vary depending on location and the severity of the emergency. However, the proximity of Beaufort Memorial Hospital to most areas within the ZIP code generally ensures relatively quick access to emergency care.

The Asthma Score will factor in the EMS response times, recognizing that prompt access to emergency care is essential for managing severe asthma attacks. The score will also consider the availability of pre-hospital care, such as oxygen administration and nebulizer treatments, provided by EMS personnel.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Asthma Score for ZIP Code 29905 will be a composite measure, reflecting the combined impact of all these factors. It will consider drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing and medical transport availability, and EMS response times.

The score will be presented on a scale, allowing prospective residents to easily understand the relative ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare for asthma management. The score will also highlight specific areas of concern, such as limited public transit options or potential traffic congestion during peak hours.

This comprehensive assessment will provide valuable information for individuals considering a move to Beaufort. It will empower them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can effectively manage their asthma in their new community. The goal is to provide a realistic and practical evaluation of healthcare access, helping individuals make the best choices for their health and well-being. Understanding the transportation landscape is key to navigating healthcare access and making a successful move to Beaufort.