29594, Tatum, South Carolina Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 29594, Tatum, South Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

95.45 percent of residents in 29594 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mcleod Health Cheraw with a distance of 19.25 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 29594

The sun-drenched coastal community of ZIP Code 29594, often associated with the charming town of Tatum, offers a unique blend of tranquility and accessibility. However, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of **healthcare access** is a critical consideration. This write-up delves into the **transportation** landscape, providing a “Hypertension Score” framework for evaluating the challenges and opportunities in reaching essential medical appointments. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Tatum** or already residing there, as efficient navigation is paramount in managing this chronic condition.

The Hypertension Score is a holistic assessment, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. Each category contributes to an overall score, reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare providers. The higher the score, the more favorable the transportation environment for individuals with hypertension.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary artery for traversing 29594 is US-17 Bypass, a vital conduit connecting Tatum to surrounding areas. For routine check-ups, the drive to a primary care physician within Tatum itself might be a breeze, perhaps a mere 5-10 minute journey. However, specialized care often necessitates travel.

A cardiologist located in Little River, approximately 15 miles north, could present a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic flow. The absence of major traffic congestion is a blessing, but the distance itself necessitates careful planning, especially for those experiencing symptoms.

Heading south to North Myrtle Beach, for specialists or hospital visits, the drive time increases. Expect a 30-45 minute drive, potentially longer during peak tourist season. The primary route is US-17, a busy thoroughfare, where traffic lights and seasonal congestion can significantly impact travel times. For those with hypertension, this extended travel time can be a stressor, potentially exacerbating their condition.

**Public Transit Realities:**

The public transit system in 29594, while present, is limited. The Grand Strand Area Transportation System (GSATS) offers bus routes, but their coverage within the ZIP Code is sparse. The primary route serving Tatum is Route 7, which runs along US-17.

The frequency of Route 7 is limited, with buses arriving at intervals of approximately one hour, making it challenging for those with strict appointment schedules. The lack of direct routes to medical facilities outside of Tatum adds another layer of complexity.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. GSATS vehicles are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the walking distance from bus stops to medical facilities can be a challenge for individuals with mobility issues, potentially hindering **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 29594, providing a convenient alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the cost of these services can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent appointments.

For individuals with limited mobility or who require medical assistance, medical transport services offer a valuable lifeline. Several providers operate in the area, including First Choice Medical Transportation and MedTrans. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service and assistance with boarding and disembarking.

The availability of these services is a positive aspect of the **transportation** landscape, but it’s essential to factor in the cost and the need for advance booking. This is especially true during peak hours or for appointments scheduled at short notice.

**Hypertension Score Calculation:**

To calculate the Hypertension Score, we assign points based on the following criteria:

* **Drive Time:** (0-50 points) based on average travel time to key medical facilities. Shorter drive times receive higher scores.
* **Public Transit:** (0-25 points) based on route frequency, coverage, and ADA accessibility. More frequent and accessible routes receive higher scores.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** (0-15 points) based on the availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services. Readily available and affordable services receive higher scores.
* **Medical Transport:** (0-10 points) based on the availability and accessibility of medical transport services. The presence of reliable and accessible services receives a higher score.

The total score, out of a possible 100 points, provides a comprehensive assessment of the **transportation** environment for individuals with hypertension.

**Scoring Scenario:**

Let's imagine a hypothetical scenario. The drive to a primary care physician in Tatum earns a high score. The longer drive to a cardiologist in Little River slightly lowers the score. The limited public transit options and reliance on US-17 during peak times further reduce the score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides a boost.

Based on this, the Hypertension Score for 29594 might fall in the moderate range, indicating that while **healthcare access** is generally manageable, careful planning and consideration of alternative **transportation** options are essential.

**Recommendations for Residents and Prospective Movers:**

For residents of 29594 managing hypertension, proactive planning is crucial. Consider:

* **Choosing healthcare providers within Tatum or nearby areas** to minimize travel time.
* **Utilizing ride-sharing services or medical transport** for appointments, especially those requiring specialized care.
* **Exploring the GSATS Route 7** for appointments within its service area, but be mindful of the schedule.
* **Planning appointments during off-peak hours** to avoid traffic congestion.
* **Maintaining a personal vehicle in good condition** is a necessity.
* **Discussing transportation needs with your healthcare provider** to identify the most suitable options.

For those considering **moving to Tatum**, assess the **transportation** options and their impact on your healthcare needs. Factor in the distance to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport. This comprehensive assessment will help you make an informed decision about whether 29594 is the right fit for your health and lifestyle.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the **transportation** landscape in 29594 requires a proactive approach, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. While the area offers a tranquil environment, the limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful planning and consideration of alternative options. By understanding the dynamics of drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport, residents can effectively manage their **healthcare access** and maintain their well-being. The Hypertension Score framework provides a valuable tool for evaluating the challenges and opportunities, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and thrive in the charming coastal community of Tatum.