29583, Pamplico, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29583, Pamplico, South Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.23 percent of residents in 29583 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake City Community Hospital with a distance of 12.27 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29583 (Pamplico, South Carolina)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for crucial screenings like mammograms, is a significant factor in overall well-being. This analysis focuses on transportation options and healthcare access for residents of Pamplico, South Carolina (ZIP code 29583), providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation methods. Considering the challenges of rural healthcare access, this assessment offers valuable insights for potential residents and current community members.

Pamplico, a charming town nestled in Florence County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, the distance to specialized medical facilities can be a hurdle. This score evaluates the practicalities of reaching breast cancer screening and treatment centers from various locations within the ZIP code. The ease of access directly impacts the likelihood of early detection and successful treatment.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

The primary mode of transportation in Pamplico is the personal vehicle. Therefore, drive times are critical. To access comprehensive breast cancer care, residents typically need to travel to Florence, the county seat, or potentially further afield to Myrtle Beach or Conway.

From the heart of Pamplico, a drive to McLeod Health Florence, a major healthcare provider, involves navigating primarily on US-76 East. This journey, covering approximately 20 miles, typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. The road is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise during peak hours or due to accidents.

Alternatively, for those seeking specialized care at the Carolinas Hospital System in Florence, the route is similar, also mainly via US-76 East. The distance is comparable, and the drive time is roughly the same. However, the specific location within Florence can influence the total travel time.

For more specialized care, such as advanced imaging or surgical oncology, residents might consider traveling to the Grand Strand Medical Center in Myrtle Beach. This trip, requiring approximately 60 miles, necessitates using US-76 East to SC-544 East, and then to US-17 South. The drive can take anywhere from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during tourist season.

A similar drive is required to reach Conway Medical Center, which is on the western side of Myrtle Beach. The route is similar, but the drive time is roughly the same.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in rural areas like Pamplico are limited. The Florence County Transportation Authority (FCTA) provides some public transportation services. However, the routes and schedules are designed primarily for local travel within Florence County, and may not be ideal for direct trips to specialized healthcare facilities.

The FCTA offers fixed-route bus services, but these routes are limited in scope. The buses are ADA-accessible, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the routes covered might not be suitable for timely access to medical appointments.

Furthermore, the FCTA provides demand-response services, which require advance booking. These services may be more flexible in terms of destination, but the scheduling process and potential wait times need to be considered.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Florence area, but their availability in Pamplico itself can be unpredictable. Residents might need to schedule rides in advance or travel to a more populated area to secure a ride.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for those who require assistance. Companies like First Medical Transportation and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically involve pre-arranged appointments and door-to-door service, offering convenience for individuals with mobility limitations or other needs.

**The Breast Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 29583 considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The time required to reach major healthcare facilities in Florence and Myrtle Beach.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency and routes of FCTA services.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport:** The availability and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options.

Based on these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for Pamplico, SC (29583) is moderate. While the drive to Florence is manageable, the limited public transit options and the potential challenges with ride-sharing services can create barriers to healthcare access. The distance to specialized facilities in Myrtle Beach further compounds the issue.

**Moving to Pamplico: Considerations for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Pamplico, healthcare access should be a key consideration. While the town offers a peaceful environment, potential residents must factor in the commute times to healthcare facilities.

* **Pre-existing Conditions:** Individuals with pre-existing conditions, especially those requiring regular medical appointments, should carefully evaluate the transportation options and the potential travel time.
* **Transportation Alternatives:** Explore the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transportation, and the possibility of utilizing family or friends for transportation.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that your health insurance plan covers transportation costs, if applicable.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** If healthcare access is a top priority, consider the proximity to major healthcare providers when choosing a residence.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score for Pamplico, SC (29583) highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical facilities and the limited public transit options can pose challenges. By understanding the transportation landscape and considering the factors outlined in this analysis, residents and potential newcomers can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure timely access to crucial screenings and treatment. The ability to navigate the transportation infrastructure is a vital component of healthcare access in rural communities.