29525, Clio, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29525, Clio, South Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.98 percent of residents in 29525 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mcleod Medical Center - Dillon with a distance of 10.01 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clio, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29525)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not just medical expertise but also the practicalities of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This write-up examines the landscape of these vital elements for residents of Clio, South Carolina (ZIP code 29525), offering a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking timely and effective care. We’ll consider the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and evaluate their accessibility in the context of a potential breast cancer diagnosis.

The first consideration is the location of essential medical facilities. In Clio itself, the immediate options are limited. The nearest primary care physicians and general medical services are likely to be found within the town. However, for specialized breast cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology, residents will need to venture beyond the immediate vicinity. This necessitates understanding the **transportation** infrastructure.

Driving is the primary mode of **transportation** for most residents of Clio. The major artery connecting Clio to larger medical centers is US-1, a vital north-south corridor. This road, while offering relatively direct access, can experience traffic, particularly during peak hours, potentially adding to the stress of medical appointments. The drive to McLeod Health Cheraw, approximately 20 minutes south on US-1, offers access to basic medical services.

Further afield, the drive to larger regional hospitals and cancer centers requires more significant travel. To reach McLeod Health Carolina Hospital in Florence, a facility with comprehensive cancer care services, the journey is approximately an hour and fifteen minutes, primarily via US-1 and then I-95. This journey demands careful planning, considering potential traffic delays and the patient's physical condition.

Another option is MUSC Health Florence, a little further, around an hour and 20 minutes, primarily on US-1 and then SC-327. This is a larger facility with a wide array of specialists and advanced cancer treatment options. These drive times, while manageable, represent a significant time commitment, especially when factoring in the frequency of appointments required for breast cancer treatment.

Public **transportation** options in Clio and the surrounding areas are limited. There is no dedicated public bus service within the town itself. The closest public transit options are likely to be found in larger towns like Bennettsville, which may offer limited routes. However, these routes are unlikely to extend to the major cancer centers in Florence or beyond.

The absence of robust public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This includes elderly residents, those with disabilities, and individuals facing financial constraints. This lack of options can severely limit **healthcare access**, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public transit, including ramps, lifts, and priority seating. However, the sparse availability of public transit in this area means that these ADA features are largely irrelevant for residents of Clio seeking breast cancer care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, they can be expensive, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers in Clio and the surrounding areas may also be limited, potentially leading to delays and uncertainty.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by specialized companies, provide a more structured solution for patients needing assistance. These services typically offer door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be costly and may require prior arrangements. Some insurance plans may cover the cost of medical **transportation**, but this varies depending on the plan and the specific circumstances.

Several medical **transportation** brands may serve the area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** providers. Researching these providers and understanding their coverage and availability is crucial for residents of Clio.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Clio, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. The availability of personal vehicles provides a degree of **transportation** flexibility. However, the reliance on driving, combined with the limited public transit and the potential cost and availability challenges of ride-sharing and medical **transportation**, creates significant barriers to **healthcare access**.

For individuals **moving to Clio**, considering these **transportation** and **healthcare access** factors is crucial. The potential for long drives to specialized cancer centers, the lack of public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing services should be carefully evaluated.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Clio would be improved by initiatives aimed at expanding **transportation** options. This could include advocating for the expansion of public transit routes to connect Clio with larger medical centers. Encouraging the development of community-based **transportation** programs, such as volunteer driver services or subsidized ride-sharing programs, could also significantly enhance **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations.

Furthermore, increased awareness of available medical **transportation** services and their associated costs and coverage is vital. Educating residents about their rights and resources related to **healthcare access** is essential. This includes informing them about insurance coverage options for medical **transportation** and providing assistance with navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.

In conclusion, while Clio offers a degree of **transportation** flexibility through personal vehicles, the limited public transit options and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** create significant barriers to **healthcare access** for breast cancer patients. Addressing these challenges through expanded **transportation** options, community-based programs, and increased awareness of available resources is essential to improving the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Clio and ensuring that everyone has access to the timely and effective care they deserve.