29564, Lane, South Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 29564, Lane, South Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

14.40 percent of residents in 29564 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Williamsburg Regional Hospital with a distance of 10.60 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 29564

The journey to managing hypertension, or high blood pressure, in the heart of South Carolina's Pee Dee region, specifically ZIP Code 29564 (Loris, SC), is significantly shaped by the availability and accessibility of transportation. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, providing a "Hypertension Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services, particularly those crucial for hypertension management. We'll consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture of healthcare access in this community.

The foundation of healthcare access in 29564 lies in the ability to reach medical facilities. For those with hypertension, regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care are non-negotiable. The primary mode of transportation is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Driving times to essential healthcare providers are a critical factor in our "Hypertension Score."

The main artery for movement is Highway 701, which bisects Loris and connects residents to various healthcare facilities. Driving south on 701, you can reach McLeod Loris Hospital, a vital local resource, within a matter of minutes, typically under 10 minutes depending on traffic. This proximity significantly boosts the "Hypertension Score." The convenience of a local hospital is a cornerstone of accessible care.

Further afield, the drive to larger hospitals in Myrtle Beach, approximately 30-45 minutes away via Highway 701 South and Highway 22, presents a more significant challenge. This longer commute can be a barrier, especially for those experiencing a hypertensive crisis or facing mobility limitations. The time spent in transit, combined with potential traffic congestion, impacts the "Hypertension Score" negatively.

Highway 9, another major thoroughfare, offers alternative routes, particularly for accessing healthcare facilities to the west of Loris. However, these routes often involve rural roads, which can be less well-maintained and potentially slower than the main highways. This factor contributes to the overall assessment.

Public transportation options in 29564 are limited, which presents a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Grand Strand Area Transportation System (GSATS) provides some bus service, but routes and frequency are limited, and coverage in the more rural areas of the ZIP code is sparse. This severely impacts the "Hypertension Score" for those reliant on public transit.

GSATS Route 10 provides some service in the Loris area, but its schedule and frequency might not align with the needs of individuals requiring regular medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is crucial for those with mobility limitations. This aspect, while present, requires careful consideration of route availability and scheduling. The lack of robust public transportation significantly lowers the "Hypertension Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability in 29564 can be variable, and wait times may be longer than in more urban areas. This uncertainty can be problematic for individuals with time-sensitive healthcare needs. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for frequent medical appointments, can also be a financial burden, further impacting the "Hypertension Score."

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges, are another crucial element. These services provide non-emergency transportation to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. Companies like First Choice Medical Transportation or similar providers might operate in the area, but their coverage and pricing should be investigated. The reliance on medical transport can increase the "Hypertension Score" for those with limited mobility, but the financial implications must be considered.

The "Hypertension Score" for 29564 must also consider the potential for moving to Lane, a residential area within the ZIP code. This potential relocation could alter the accessibility landscape, depending on the proximity of healthcare facilities and transportation options within Lane. The impact of such a move on the "Hypertension Score" should be carefully evaluated, taking into account the availability of transportation and healthcare services in the new location.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for 29564 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of McLeod Loris Hospital provides immediate access to care, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the potential cost of medical transport create challenges for many residents. The longer commute times to larger hospitals in Myrtle Beach further complicate the situation.

For individuals managing hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" emphasizes the importance of careful planning. It underscores the need to consider proximity to healthcare providers, the availability of reliable transportation, and the potential costs associated with accessing care. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not merely about the presence of medical facilities but also about the ability to reach them efficiently and affordably.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" in 29564 highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access. This might include advocating for expanded public transportation, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport options. These initiatives can significantly improve the lives of residents managing hypertension, making it easier for them to receive the care they need. The journey to healthcare in 29564, while navigable, demands careful consideration of transportation realities.