29545, Green Sea, South Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 29545, Green Sea, South Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.05 percent of residents in 29545 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Musc Health Marion Medical Center with a distance of 17.23 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Green Sea, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29545)

The quiet charm of Green Sea, South Carolina, nestled within ZIP Code 29545, offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, this tranquility comes with a crucial consideration for residents, particularly those managing hypertension: access to healthcare. This write-up explores the "Hypertension Score" for this area, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services, specifically focusing on transportation options. Understanding these nuances is paramount, especially for those considering moving to Green Sea and managing their health proactively.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a formal, standardized metric. Instead, it serves as a qualitative assessment, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape for individuals requiring regular medical attention. This is particularly critical for managing hypertension, a condition necessitating consistent monitoring, medication refills, and potential specialist appointments. The score considers the availability, reliability, and affordability of various transportation modes.

**The Road to Care: Driving and Drive Times**

For most residents of Green Sea, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is the personal vehicle. The town's location, while offering serenity, is also somewhat isolated. The closest major healthcare hubs are in Loris, Conway, and North Myrtle Beach. The journey to these locations is primarily reliant on a network of highways and local roads.

Traveling to Loris, home to McLeod Loris Seacoast Hospital, typically involves navigating South Carolina Highway 9 (SC-9). The drive, depending on the specific location within 29545, can take between 15 to 25 minutes. This is generally a straightforward route, but traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak hours or when there are accidents.

Conway, home to Conway Medical Center, presents a slightly longer journey. The most direct route involves taking SC-9 to US-701 South. The drive time is usually around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Conway. This route traverses more significant stretches of highway, making it generally faster than routes involving solely local roads.

Reaching North Myrtle Beach, with its numerous medical clinics and specialists, typically requires a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour. The primary route involves taking SC-9 to US-17 South. This route is the longest of the three, and is subject to heavier traffic, especially during the tourist season. Therefore, the drive time can vary significantly.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 29545 are extremely limited. Horry County, where Green Sea is located, offers a public transit system, Coast RTA. However, service to Green Sea is infrequent and primarily caters to essential trips. The routes that might serve the area are likely to be limited in frequency, potentially requiring significant wait times and multiple transfers.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of Coast RTA buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. While the buses are equipped with features to accommodate wheelchairs and other assistive devices, the limited route options and potential for long travel times can still pose challenges. Detailed information regarding specific routes, schedules, and ADA features is available on the Coast RTA website.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent. The frequency of drivers in Green Sea is lower than in more populated areas. This can lead to longer wait times and potentially higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or when demand is high.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals who may not be able to drive themselves or utilize public transportation. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. Examples of medical transport brands operating in the area might include First Choice Medical Transportation or similar local providers.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Hypertension Score" for 29545 is influenced by a combination of factors. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a vulnerability for those without access to a car or unable to drive. The limited public transit options exacerbate this challenge.

The availability of ride-sharing services provides some flexibility, but their reliability is not guaranteed. Medical transportation services offer a crucial safety net, but their cost can be a barrier. These factors collectively contribute to a moderate "Hypertension Score" for the area.

**Moving to Green Sea: Planning for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Green Sea, a proactive approach to healthcare access is essential. This includes:

* **Assessing Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive, and consider the potential need for alternative transportation options.
* **Researching Healthcare Providers:** Identify local doctors and specialists, and understand their location and appointment scheduling processes.
* **Exploring Transportation Resources:** Familiarize yourself with Coast RTA routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services.
* **Developing a Backup Plan:** Have a plan for accessing healthcare in case of emergencies or transportation disruptions.

By understanding the transportation landscape and planning accordingly, residents of Green Sea can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their well-being. This proactive approach ensures that the serenity of Green Sea is not compromised by the challenges of accessing necessary healthcare services. The decision to move to Green Sea should include a thorough assessment of transportation options, especially for those with chronic conditions requiring regular medical attention.