29518, Cades, South Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 29518, Cades, South Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.35 percent of residents in 29518 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Williamsburg Regional Hospital with a distance of 8.49 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29518**

The heart of the matter, and the focus of this analysis, is the accessibility of healthcare for residents of Cades, South Carolina, ZIP code 29518, particularly concerning hypertension management. This score, a composite measure, assesses the ease with which individuals can access medical services, considering transportation options, drive times, and availability of healthcare providers. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking timely and effective hypertension care. Understanding these nuances is crucial for those considering moving to Cades, ensuring they can maintain or improve their health.

Cades, a rural community, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. The primary concern is the distance to medical facilities and the limited transportation options available. This is especially critical for individuals with hypertension, a condition that requires regular monitoring and medication management. The ability to reach a doctor's office, pharmacy, or specialist is paramount for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The predominant mode of transportation in Cades is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor in our score. The nearest hospitals, McLeod Health Clarendon and McLeod Health Florence, are located in Manning and Florence, respectively. Reaching McLeod Health Clarendon requires navigating South Carolina Highway 527 and then US-301 South, a drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

The journey to McLeod Health Florence involves traveling on US-301 North and then either US-76 or Interstate 95. This trip can take between 45 minutes and an hour, potentially longer during peak traffic hours. These drive times, while manageable for some, can pose a significant burden for those with mobility limitations or limited access to vehicles. The quality of the roads, though generally well-maintained, is also a consideration. Potholes or construction delays can add to travel time and stress.

**Public Transit**

Public transportation options in Cades are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access. There are no readily available bus routes that directly serve the area, making it difficult for individuals without personal vehicles to reach medical appointments. This is a major disadvantage for those who are elderly, disabled, or otherwise unable to drive. The lack of public transit exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access in this rural setting.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Florence and Manning areas, but their presence in Cades itself is less certain. Availability can be sporadic, and wait times may be prolonged, especially during off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Southeast Medical Transport and First Choice Medical Transport may operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than other options. However, they offer a crucial lifeline for those with mobility issues or other needs.

**Healthcare Access: Pharmacy and Clinics**

The availability of pharmacies and clinics within ZIP code 29518 is another key component of our score. The presence of a local pharmacy is vital for medication access and refills. The nearest pharmacies are likely located in nearby towns such as Lake City or Kingstree, requiring a drive of varying distances.

The availability of primary care physicians and specialists in the immediate vicinity is also crucial. A lack of local healthcare providers necessitates longer travel times for routine check-ups and specialist appointments. This can lead to delayed care and poorer health outcomes, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension.

**ADA Compliance**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance of transportation options is a critical factor. If public transit were available, the presence of accessible buses with ramps or lifts would be essential. Ride-sharing services should also be able to accommodate individuals with disabilities. The availability of accessible parking at healthcare facilities is equally important.

**The Hypertension Score: A Synthesis**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP code 29518 reflects the confluence of these factors. The score considers drive times, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the accessibility of local pharmacies and clinics. A high score indicates easy access to healthcare, while a low score signifies significant challenges.

In the case of Cades, the score is likely to be moderate to low. The long drive times to hospitals and the limited public transit options are significant drawbacks. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges of ride-sharing create barriers to healthcare access. The availability of medical transport services and the potential for local pharmacies may mitigate some of these challenges, but overall, the score reflects the difficulties faced by residents in managing their hypertension.

**Implications for Moving to Cades**

For those considering moving to Cades, understanding the Hypertension Score is essential. Individuals with hypertension or other chronic conditions should carefully evaluate the transportation options and healthcare access before making a decision. They should consider the potential impact of long drive times on their ability to attend appointments and manage their medications.

It is also important to research the availability of local healthcare providers, pharmacies, and medical transport services. Planning for transportation needs, including potential reliance on family, friends, or medical transport, is crucial. The ability to maintain regular medical care is essential for managing hypertension and preventing serious health complications. The decision to move to Cades should be made with a clear understanding of these healthcare access challenges and a proactive plan to address them.