29591, Scranton, South Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 29591, Scranton, South Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.24 percent of residents in 29591 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake City Community Hospital with a distance of 3.29 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 29591

The quest for optimal health, particularly managing conditions like hypertension, often hinges on accessible and reliable transportation. In the serene, yet geographically diverse, landscape of ZIP Code 29591, the ability to efficiently reach healthcare providers is a crucial element in controlling this silent killer. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment for individuals residing within or considering relocating to this area, particularly those with hypertension or at risk. The aim is to illuminate the realities of **healthcare access** within the context of **transportation** options, offering insights for informed decision-making, especially for those **moving to Scranton**.

ZIP Code 29591 encompasses a blend of suburban and rural environments, influencing the availability and efficiency of transportation modalities. The primary arteries facilitating movement are US-501, connecting various communities, and SC-9, offering a north-south passage. Local roads, such as Old Conway Road and Kingston Lake Road, serve as connectors, but their narrow lanes and limited sidewalks can pose challenges for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather.

For individuals reliant on personal vehicles, drive times to medical facilities are a critical consideration. The drive to Conway Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, from various points within 29591 can vary significantly. From the southern reaches, expect a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes via US-501. Residents in the northern regions may face a slightly longer commute, closer to 30-40 minutes, utilizing SC-9 and local roads. Traffic congestion, especially during morning and evening commutes, can add to these times, impacting the timeliness of appointments and the stress levels of patients.

Public transportation options are available, though their accessibility and efficiency are limited. The Coast RTA operates a bus network, offering routes that traverse key areas within and around 29591. However, the frequency of these routes may be infrequent, with limited service on weekends and evenings. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, are incorporated into the fleet, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. Despite these efforts, the reliance on a fixed route schedule and the potential for lengthy travel times can pose significant hurdles for those requiring frequent medical appointments or experiencing acute health concerns.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative. Their availability in 29591 is generally good, providing on-demand transportation to medical facilities. However, the cost of these services can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing is also subject to driver availability, which can be affected by peak demand, weather conditions, and the location of the rider within the ZIP code.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, are another option. Several providers, such as First Transit and MedTrans, operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically require pre-booking and may involve longer wait times compared to ride-sharing. The cost of NEMT is often covered by insurance, making it a more affordable option for some patients.

The "Hypertension Score" for 29591 is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment based on the transportation factors discussed. Individuals with hypertension or those at risk must carefully evaluate their transportation options and how they align with their healthcare needs.

For those with personal vehicles, the score is relatively favorable, provided they can navigate the potential for traffic congestion and associated stress. The ability to control their schedule and travel directly to medical facilities offers a degree of convenience. However, the costs associated with vehicle ownership, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, must be factored in.

For individuals reliant on public transportation, the score is less favorable. The limitations in route frequency, travel times, and potential for delays can pose significant challenges. Careful planning and coordination are essential to ensure timely arrival at appointments.

Ride-sharing services offer a more flexible option, but the cost and reliability of availability influence the score. The ability to summon a ride on demand is a significant advantage, but the financial burden can be considerable for frequent users.

Medical transportation services provide a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. However, the need for pre-booking and the potential for longer wait times must be considered.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for 29591 is moderate, reflecting the mixed landscape of transportation options. While personal vehicles offer the most convenience, the limitations of public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing, and the pre-booking requirements of medical transportation services necessitate careful planning and consideration.

For individuals **moving to Scranton** or considering residing in 29591, the proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor. The availability of diverse transportation options, even with their limitations, is a positive aspect. However, those with hypertension or at risk must proactively assess their individual needs and preferences. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the accessibility of public transportation routes, the affordability of ride-sharing, and the suitability of medical transportation services.

In conclusion, managing hypertension effectively in 29591 requires a proactive approach to transportation planning. Understanding the nuances of drive times, public transit schedules, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options empowers individuals to make informed decisions. By carefully considering these factors, residents can enhance their **healthcare access** and improve their overall well-being. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is essential for those seeking to control their blood pressure and live a healthier life in this area, especially for those actively **moving to Scranton**.