29506, Florence, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29506, Florence, South Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.94 percent of residents in 29506 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mcleod Regional Medical Center-Pee Dee with a distance of 3.02 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 29506**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not only medical expertise but also the critical element of transportation. This analysis, tailored for residents of ZIP code 29506 (Florence, South Carolina), examines the accessibility of breast cancer care, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score," offering insights into the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical services. This information is especially pertinent for individuals considering moving to Florence, South Carolina, and needing to understand the local healthcare landscape.

Florence, South Carolina, presents a unique challenge. While a regional hub, its transportation infrastructure demands careful consideration. The ability to reach a specialist, attend appointments, and receive treatment significantly impacts patient outcomes and overall well-being. The "Breast Cancer Score" reflects this reality, weighing the availability and convenience of various transportation methods.

**Driving Directions and Commute Times**

The primary mode of transportation in Florence is the personal vehicle. The major arteries, US-76, US-52, and I-95, are crucial for navigating the city and reaching medical facilities. For residents of 29506, the drive times to key healthcare providers are a critical component of the "Breast Cancer Score."

McLeod Health Florence, a major regional medical center, is a central point of care. From various locations within 29506, the drive to McLeod Health Florence typically ranges from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific starting point. Routes often involve traveling along US-76 or US-52.

Specialized breast cancer care, including surgical oncology and radiation therapy, might necessitate travel to McLeod Cancer Center or other specialized facilities. The drive to these locations within the McLeod Health system is generally comparable to the time to the main hospital, ranging from 5 to 15 minutes.

For those living on the outskirts of 29506, or those facing peak traffic times, these drive times could increase. The "Breast Cancer Score" accounts for this variability, factoring in potential delays and the impact on patients' schedules.

**Public Transit Options**

Florence County offers public transportation, but its coverage and frequency are limited. The Florence County Transit system provides bus services, but routes are not always direct to medical facilities. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the feasibility of using public transit for accessing breast cancer care.

The primary bus routes serving the area might require transfers, adding significant travel time. The buses may not operate on weekends or evenings, limiting access for appointments outside of regular business hours. ADA accessibility is a critical factor. The Florence County Transit system is mandated to provide accessible services, but the availability of accessible routes and vehicles needs to be verified.

The "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the practicality of public transit by evaluating the route frequency, travel time, and accessibility features for individuals with mobility limitations. The score will also consider the potential impact of waiting times and the need for transfers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Florence. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the availability and cost of ride-sharing services.

The reliability of ride-sharing can vary, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. The score considers the potential for delays and the impact on appointment schedules.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and specialized vehicles. The "Breast Cancer Score" evaluates the availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transportation providers in the area.

The score will also consider the potential for insurance coverage of these services, as well as the need for advance booking. The availability of these services is a critical factor in the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Methodology**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is calculated based on a weighted average of several factors: drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options. The score will also consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist with transportation arrangements.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access to care. The score will be accompanied by detailed information about each transportation option, including contact information, route maps, and cost estimates.

The score will provide a snapshot of the transportation landscape for breast cancer care in 29506. It will empower residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access**

The availability of reliable transportation is critical for breast cancer patients. Regular appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care are essential. Transportation barriers can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and poorer health outcomes.

The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the challenges and opportunities for improving healthcare access in 29506. It can be used to identify areas where transportation services need to be enhanced, such as expanding public transit routes, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for medical transportation.

The score is also relevant for individuals considering moving to Florence. Understanding the transportation landscape is vital for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 29506 provides a valuable assessment of healthcare access. It highlights the importance of transportation in the journey to breast cancer care. By considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, the score offers a comprehensive perspective.

The score is a dynamic tool. It will be updated regularly to reflect changes in transportation services and healthcare availability. This ongoing assessment will help ensure that residents of 29506 have the information they need to navigate the healthcare system and receive the best possible care. The "Breast Cancer Score" strives to be a beacon of information, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journeys, especially for those contemplating moving to Florence.