29505, Florence, South Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 29505, Florence, South Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.78 percent of residents in 29505 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Musc Health Florence Medical Center with a distance of 1.35 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Florence, SC (ZIP Code 29505)

Considering a move to Florence, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29505)? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score," a metric designed to assess the ease of access to healthcare, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. This score considers various transportation options, crucial for regular check-ups and medication refills. The goal is to paint a clear picture of how easily residents can access vital healthcare services within this ZIP code.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a single number but a composite understanding, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities from various points within 29505. It prioritizes factors essential for hypertension management: proximity to primary care physicians, cardiology specialists, pharmacies, and emergency care. The score will be influenced by the efficiency and availability of transportation options.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Arteries of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Florence, SC, is the personal vehicle. The road network within 29505 is relatively straightforward, but drive times can vary depending on traffic and the location of the healthcare facility.

The major thoroughfare, US-76, bisects the ZIP code, serving as a crucial artery for accessing healthcare. Driving east on US-76 leads towards McLeod Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider in the region. The drive time from the western edge of 29505 to McLeod is approximately 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

South Carolina Highway 52, another significant road, runs north-south through the area. It provides access to various medical offices and pharmacies. Drive times along SC-52 are generally shorter than those on US-76, particularly for locations closer to the highway.

For those residing in the more southern reaches of 29505, heading north on SC-52 and then east on US-76 provides the most direct route to McLeod. However, this route could take around 25 minutes, depending on the starting point and traffic flow.

Smaller roads like Second Loop Road and Palmetto Street offer alternative routes but can be subject to congestion during peak hours. These roads are useful for accessing local clinics and pharmacies, potentially reducing travel times for those living nearby. The efficiency of these routes will contribute to the overall "Hypertension Score."

**Public Transportation: A Limited but Present Option**

The public transportation landscape in Florence is less developed than in larger metropolitan areas. The primary public transit provider is the Florence Transit System. The system operates several fixed routes, but their coverage within 29505 is limited.

Route 1, for example, might serve some areas within the ZIP code, but its frequency and reach might not adequately serve the needs of individuals with hypertension, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments. Route schedules and stops should be verified to ensure they align with the needs of the individual.

The Florence Transit System does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the lack of extensive route coverage and the potential for longer travel times pose challenges. These factors significantly impact the "Hypertension Score," as reliance on public transit might not be a viable option for all residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Florence. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The availability of ride-sharing can significantly improve the "Hypertension Score" by providing a readily accessible transportation option.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the affordability of ride-sharing services in the context of regular healthcare needs.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly beneficial for those with mobility limitations or other health conditions that make it difficult to travel independently.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the Florence area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients can safely and comfortably reach their appointments. The availability and accessibility of these services will positively influence the "Hypertension Score."

**Pharmacies and Healthcare Access: The Vital Link**

Access to pharmacies is a critical component of managing hypertension. Within 29505, several pharmacies are located along major roadways like US-76 and SC-52. These pharmacies offer prescription filling services, medication counseling, and other essential healthcare products.

The proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and healthcare providers is a key factor in the "Hypertension Score." Easy access to medication refills is crucial for adherence to treatment plans.

The presence of urgent care clinics within the ZIP code also contributes to the "Hypertension Score." These clinics provide immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions, offering an alternative to the emergency room for certain situations.

**The "Hypertension Score" in Action: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for 29505 is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It reflects the interplay of all the factors discussed: drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, medical transportation services, and the proximity of pharmacies and healthcare providers.

For an individual with hypertension, the score would be higher if they reside close to a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pharmacy, with easy access to transportation. Conversely, the score would be lower if they live further from these essential services and rely on public transit with limited coverage.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the cost of transportation, the frequency of medical appointments, and the overall convenience of accessing healthcare. It provides a practical framework for evaluating the healthcare accessibility within 29505, aiding individuals considering moving to Florence in making informed decisions.

**Moving to Florence: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Florence, SC (29505), understanding the "Hypertension Score" is crucial. It helps to assess the ease of accessing healthcare services and to plan accordingly.

Before making a move, prospective residents should research the locations of healthcare providers and pharmacies within the ZIP code. They should also evaluate the availability and cost of transportation options, including ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The "Hypertension Score" is a valuable tool for evaluating healthcare accessibility in 29505. By understanding the transportation landscape and the proximity of healthcare services, individuals can make informed decisions about where to live and how to manage their hypertension effectively.