Health Scores Near 29474, Round O, South Carolina
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The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29474, Round O, South Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
32.67 percent of residents in 29474 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Colleton Medical Center with a distance of 8.14 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 29474, Round O, South Carolina
| Breast Cancer Score | 3 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 20 |
| Provider Score | 10 |
| Hospital Score | 35 |
| Travel Score | 24 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 29474 | Round O | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.29 |
| 1 Car | 15.59 | 15.59 | 19.76 |
| 2 Cars | 16.92 | 16.92 | 41.52 |
| 3 or More Cars | 67.50 | 67.50 | 36.42 |
Vehicular Access in 29474, Round O, South Carolina
**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Round O, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29474)**
The decision to relocate, especially to a rural area like Round O, South Carolina (ZIP code 29474), involves a multitude of considerations. Beyond the charm of small-town living and the allure of open spaces, prospective residents must critically assess their access to essential services, including healthcare. This analysis focuses on breast cancer care, a critical aspect of women's health, and evaluates the transportation landscape within and around Round O, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to gauge healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Round O.
Round O, nestled in Colleton County, presents a unique challenge regarding healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities, including those specializing in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, are located in the larger towns and cities surrounding Round O. This necessitates a reliance on various modes of transportation, making the ease and efficiency of travel a primary concern for anyone prioritizing healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score will help potential residents understand the realities of transportation and healthcare access in this area.
**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**
The primary mode of transportation for most residents in Round O is personal vehicles. The drive times to healthcare facilities are, therefore, heavily dependent on the local road network. The most direct route to Charleston, where the majority of specialized medical care is available, involves traveling on US-15 South. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the intersection with US-17.
The drive to Charleston, approximately 50 miles, can take anywhere from 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. For those needing to access the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) or Roper St. Francis Healthcare facilities, this is the most common route.
Alternatively, residents can utilize SC-64, which offers a slightly more scenic route, but it can add an extra 15-20 minutes to the journey. This route might be preferable for those seeking to avoid the potential congestion of US-17.
Further south, the drive to Beaufort, approximately 60 miles, offers another option. This route, often utilizing US-17, may be an option for some, but it is still a considerable distance. This highlights the importance of considering the time and distance factors when evaluating healthcare access in Round O.
The condition of the roads, while generally good, can be impacted by weather events. Hurricanes and heavy rainfall can occasionally lead to road closures or delays, further complicating access to healthcare.
**Public Transit: Limited Options, Significant Challenges**
Public transportation options in Round O are extremely limited. Colleton County does not have a robust public transit system. The primary service is a demand-response system, which requires advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs.
The lack of a reliable public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is particularly challenging for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.
The absence of fixed-route buses and the limitations of the demand-response system underscore the importance of considering alternative transportation options. For those who are unable to drive, the reliance on family, friends, or other services becomes paramount.
ADA accessibility is a critical concern when evaluating public transit. While the demand-response system is required to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, the limited availability and advance booking requirements can create difficulties for individuals with disabilities needing to access healthcare.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Round O area, but their availability can be sporadic. While they offer a potential alternative to driving, their reliability and cost can vary significantly. The waiting times for a ride can be longer in rural areas, and the fares may be higher due to the distance traveled.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey.
Several medical transportation providers operate in the area, but their availability and coverage can vary. It is crucial for potential residents to research and identify reliable medical transportation providers in advance, ensuring they have a plan for accessing healthcare appointments.
The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. This adds another layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation.
**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**
The Breast Cancer Score is a subjective assessment based on the factors discussed above. It considers the following:
* **Drive Time:** The average time to reach the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities (e.g., Charleston, Beaufort).
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence and reliability of public transit options, including ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The frequency and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Road Conditions:** The overall condition of the roadways and their susceptibility to weather-related disruptions.
**Scoring Methodology:**
* **Excellent (5 points):** Easy access to comprehensive breast cancer care within a reasonable drive time (under 45 minutes), with reliable public transit and readily available ride-sharing and medical transportation options.
* **Good (4 points):** Access to comprehensive breast cancer care within a reasonable drive time (45-60 minutes), with limited but functional public transit and available ride-sharing and medical transportation options.
* **Fair (3 points):** Drive time to comprehensive breast cancer care is 60-90 minutes, with limited public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options.
* **Poor (2 points):** Drive time to comprehensive breast cancer care exceeds 90 minutes, with very limited or no public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transportation options.
* **Very Poor (1 point):** Extremely limited access to comprehensive breast cancer care, with significant transportation challenges.
**Applying the Score to Round O (29474):**
Based on the information presented, Round O receives a **"Fair" (3 points)** Breast Cancer Score. While the drive times to Charleston and Beaufort are manageable, the limitations of public transit and the variability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create challenges. Residents must rely heavily on personal vehicles, and those without access to a car face significant hurdles in accessing timely and consistent breast cancer care.
**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare Realities in Round O**
Moving to Round O presents a unique set of considerations, particularly regarding healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. Prospective residents must carefully evaluate their individual needs and circumstances, taking into account drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
For those considering moving to Round O and prioritizing healthcare access, a thorough assessment of these factors is essential. Researching local medical transportation providers, identifying potential support networks, and understanding the realities of transportation are crucial steps in making an informed decision. While Round O offers a charming rural lifestyle, potential residents must be prepared to navigate the complexities of healthcare access and prioritize their transportation needs to ensure they receive the care they deserve.
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