29593, Society Hill, South Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 29593, Society Hill, South Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.42 percent of residents in 29593 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center with a distance of 15.41 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Society Hill (ZIP Code 29593)

Society Hill, South Carolina, a community nestled in the heart of Darlington County, presents a unique landscape when considering healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to reliably and efficiently reach medical appointments is paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation infrastructure within and around ZIP code 29593, assigning a "Hypertension Score" to gauge the ease of commute to healthcare facilities. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing/medical transport availability, offering a comprehensive perspective for residents and those considering moving to Society Hill.

The Hypertension Score is designed to be a dynamic metric, reflecting the real-world challenges faced by individuals with hypertension in accessing necessary medical care. It acknowledges that factors beyond the mere existence of transportation options influence their practicality. These include the frequency of appointments, the patient's physical limitations, and the overall reliability of the available modes of transit. The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

For many residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. Within Society Hill, the primary thoroughfare is **US-15 (Main Street)**, which connects to the larger regional network. To reach healthcare facilities, residents will likely utilize **US-15** to connect with **US-52**, the main artery for accessing Darlington and Florence. Drive times are crucial.

The closest major healthcare facility is **Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center** in Hartsville, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **US-15** and **SC-151**. This relatively short commute contributes positively to the Hypertension Score. Other options include facilities in Darlington and Florence. Reaching **Darlington Medical Center** typically requires a 20-25 minute drive, primarily via **US-15** and **US-52**. Florence, with its greater concentration of medical specialists and hospitals, presents a slightly longer commute. Driving to **McLeod Regional Medical Center** in Florence takes approximately 40-45 minutes, primarily via **US-52**.

The condition of the roads is also a factor. While the main highways are generally well-maintained, secondary roads can be subject to wear and tear, potentially impacting travel times and the comfort of patients with hypertension. Traffic congestion is generally light, particularly outside of peak commuting hours. However, weather conditions, particularly during hurricane season, can significantly impact travel times and accessibility.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Society Hill are limited. Darlington County does offer a demand-response transit service. This service, however, is not a fixed-route bus system. Instead, it operates on a reservation basis, requiring passengers to schedule rides in advance. This can be a significant barrier for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent or unscheduled medical appointments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the county's transit service is a critical consideration. While the service is designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility limitations, the reliance on advance booking and potential wait times can pose challenges. The operational hours of the transit service and its availability on weekends and holidays also impact its utility for accessing healthcare.

The limited availability of public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score. While the service exists, its constraints make it less practical for individuals with chronic conditions requiring regular medical attention. The lack of readily accessible, fixed-route options necessitates reliance on other transportation methods.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Society Hill and surrounding areas is variable. The frequency of service and the potential for surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can be significant considerations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a burden for individuals with fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. The availability of medical transport services in Society Hill is an important aspect of the Hypertension Score. Several companies operate in the region, including **First Choice Medical Transport** and **Medicaid Transportation Services**.

The reliability and cost of these services are crucial factors. Individuals with hypertension may require assistance with mobility, and the availability of specialized medical transport can significantly improve their healthcare access. The Hypertension Score will reflect the availability, cost, and reliability of these services.

**Overall Hypertension Score:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the Hypertension Score for ZIP code 29593 is moderate. The relatively short drive times to healthcare facilities in Hartsville and Darlington contribute positively. However, the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport create challenges. The score is further impacted by the potential for weather-related disruptions and the financial burden of relying on private transportation.

Individuals considering moving to Society Hill should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. While the area offers access to essential medical services, relying solely on personal vehicles or navigating the limitations of public transit may prove challenging for some. Exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial.

The Hypertension Score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Residents with hypertension should establish reliable transportation arrangements, familiarize themselves with the available healthcare resources, and proactively communicate their needs to their healthcare providers. This includes discussing potential transportation challenges and exploring options for managing appointments and medication refills.

The ongoing development of transportation infrastructure and the expansion of healthcare services within the region will undoubtedly impact the Hypertension Score. As the community grows and evolves, the availability of accessible and affordable transportation options will be critical for ensuring that all residents, including those managing hypertension, can access the healthcare they need. This is a fundamental aspect of creating a healthy and thriving community in Society Hill.