29519, Centenary, South Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 29519, Centenary, South Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 29519 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Musc Health Marion Medical Center with a distance of 13.66 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29519**

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 29519, focusing on commute times to medical facilities, available transportation options, and their suitability for residents, particularly those considering a move to Centenary. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score," reflecting the ease with which residents can access essential medical care.

The cornerstone of this assessment is drive-time analysis. Residents of 29519, a primarily rural area, often rely on personal vehicles. The primary arteries connecting Centenary to healthcare providers are US-76 and SC-9. Driving to McLeod Loris Hospital, a significant healthcare hub, from the heart of Centenary typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes via US-76 East. The route is generally straightforward, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours, particularly around Loris.

For specialized care, residents might need to travel to larger medical centers in Myrtle Beach or Wilmington, North Carolina. The drive to Grand Strand Medical Center in Myrtle Beach, a more extensive facility, involves a journey of roughly 45-60 minutes, primarily via SC-9 South and US-17 Bypass. This longer commute highlights the potential challenges for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent check-ups or face emergencies. Wilmington, North Carolina, offers additional specialized care options, reachable via SC-9 North and US-74 East, entailing a drive time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Public transportation options within 29519 are limited. The Horry County Transit system, although available, has restricted routes and schedules. Route 14, for instance, might offer some service, but its frequency is low, and its coverage of the area is not comprehensive. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor that must be considered in the Hypertension Score. Detailed information on route maps and schedules is essential for residents to plan their healthcare commutes effectively.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability can fluctuate, particularly in rural areas. The cost and reliability of ride-sharing services should be factored into the Hypertension Score, as they can significantly impact the affordability and accessibility of healthcare. Booking in advance is often necessary, especially for appointments scheduled during off-peak hours.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical trips, offer another solution. Companies like First Medical Transportation and others may operate in the area, providing door-to-door service. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with limited mobility or those who cannot drive themselves. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The Hypertension Score must also consider the location of pharmacies. Access to prescription medications is critical for managing hypertension. The proximity of pharmacies, such as CVS or Walgreens, and the availability of drive-through services, can significantly impact the convenience of medication refills. The presence of 24-hour pharmacies is a plus for residents.

Healthcare access also encompasses the availability of telehealth services. Telemedicine can bridge the gap for residents with limited transportation options. Access to reliable internet and the availability of telehealth appointments with local providers can improve the Hypertension Score.

When moving to Centenary, residents should consider the proximity of primary care physicians, cardiologists, and other specialists. The availability of urgent care facilities is also important for addressing immediate health needs. The Hypertension Score is lower if residents must travel long distances for routine care or face significant delays in accessing emergency services.

The overall Hypertension Score for 29519 is influenced by several factors. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, and the proximity of pharmacies all play a role. The score is also affected by the availability of telehealth services and the presence of local healthcare providers.

A higher score indicates better healthcare access, while a lower score suggests challenges in obtaining timely and convenient medical care. Prospective residents, particularly those with hypertension, should carefully evaluate these factors before making a move to Centenary. Understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access is essential for managing their health effectively.

The goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in 29519. This analysis aims to empower residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and lifestyle choices, particularly as they consider moving to Centenary. The overall Hypertension Score should be a valuable tool for assessing the suitability of the area for individuals with hypertension.