29474, Round O, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29474, Round O, South Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.67 percent of residents in 29474 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Colleton Medical Center with a distance of 8.14 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 29474, Round O, South Carolina

The air hangs thick and humid in Round O, South Carolina, ZIP Code 29474, a community nestled in the heart of the Lowcountry. For residents, the beauty of the sprawling landscapes is tempered by the realities of rural living, particularly when it comes to healthcare access. A diagnosis of lung cancer, a disease demanding swift and specialized care, adds a layer of urgency to the already complex challenge of transportation. This write-up delves into the intricate web of **transportation** options available to residents of 29474, analyzing their impact on **healthcare access** and ultimately, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the practical difficulties faced by those battling this formidable illness.

The journey to healthcare in this area is often measured in miles and minutes, not mere blocks. The primary arteries for **transportation** are the state highways. Highway 61, also known as the Ashley River Road, snakes its way through the region, connecting Round O to larger towns and cities. Highway 178, a more direct route, offers another pathway. These roads, while offering the most direct routes, are often subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours. The condition of these roads, and the speed limits enforced, also contribute to the overall travel time.

For those with the means, driving is the most common mode of **transportation**. The closest significant medical facilities are located in Summerville, roughly a 30-to-45-minute drive depending on traffic and the specific destination. This involves navigating Highway 178 and then various local roads within Summerville. For more specialized care, Charleston, approximately an hour away via Highway 61 or Interstate 26, presents a greater challenge. The commute to Charleston requires navigating more complex traffic patterns and potentially paying tolls, adding to the overall stress and financial burden.

Public **transportation** options in 29474 are limited. The Charleston Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (CARTA) does not directly serve Round O. While CARTA operates routes within Summerville and Charleston, reaching these routes from Round O would necessitate a significant drive, adding considerable time and effort to the journey. Furthermore, the lack of frequent service and the potential for transfers make public **transportation** a less viable option, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing mobility limitations. The absence of readily accessible public **transportation** significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the financial resources for alternative options.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability in rural areas can be inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which is typically lower in Round O compared to more urban centers. The cost of a ride-share to Summerville or Charleston can be substantial, especially for frequent appointments, adding to the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis. This places a heavy burden on patients, especially those with limited incomes or fixed budgets.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance. Companies like Senior Ride and other private medical **transportation** providers operate in the region. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility, and can accommodate medical equipment. However, these services come at a cost, and insurance coverage can vary. The availability of these services, and their accessibility to all residents, is a critical factor in determining **healthcare access**.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges is magnified for lung cancer patients. The disease often requires frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation therapy), and follow-up care. These appointments can occur multiple times a week, making the commute a significant time commitment. The physical demands of the journey, combined with the physical and emotional toll of the illness, can further exacerbate the difficulties. The stress of navigating traffic, the financial burden of travel, and the lack of readily available **transportation** options can negatively impact patient outcomes.

For those **moving to Round O**, understanding these **transportation** limitations is crucial. While the community offers a peaceful and serene environment, the practicalities of **healthcare access** must be carefully considered. The distance to medical facilities, the reliability of **transportation** options, and the potential costs associated with travel should be factored into the decision-making process.

**Lung Cancer Score:**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 29474 reflects the challenges faced by lung cancer patients in accessing healthcare.

* **Drive Time to Nearest Oncology Center:** Moderate (30-60 minutes to Summerville, 60+ minutes to Charleston).
* **Public Transportation Availability:** Very Limited (No direct service, long travel times to connecting routes).
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Moderate (Availability can be inconsistent, costs can be significant).
* **Medical Transportation Services:** Moderate (Available, but costs and insurance coverage vary).
* **Overall Score:** **3 out of 5** (5 being the most difficult).

This score indicates that **healthcare access** in 29474 presents significant challenges for lung cancer patients. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential financial burden of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services create barriers to timely and consistent care. For those **moving to Round O**, a proactive approach to **transportation** planning, including exploring all available resources and considering the potential costs associated with travel, is essential to ensure adequate **healthcare access**.