29501, Florence, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29501, Florence, South Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.99 percent of residents in 29501 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mcleod Regional Medical Center-Pee Dee with a distance of 3.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 29501

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and for residents of ZIP Code 29501 in Florence, South Carolina, the ease of accessing vital healthcare services is a critical concern. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, evaluating how readily individuals can reach diagnostic and treatment facilities, ultimately contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the realities faced by those seeking care.

Florence, a city steeped in history and Southern charm, presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to transportation. The area's layout, coupled with the limitations of public transit, can significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing mobility challenges or lacking personal vehicles. This analysis will examine the practicalities of navigating this terrain, offering insights for both current residents and those considering moving to Florence.

For those with personal vehicles, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are Interstate 95 (I-95) and U.S. Route 76 (US-76). The drive to McLeod Regional Medical Center, the primary hospital in the area, from various points within 29501 is generally manageable. Residents in the western portions of the zip code, closer to I-95, might experience a quicker commute, typically under 15 minutes, using exits like 164 or 169. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend these drive times, potentially impacting the urgency of medical needs.

Traveling from the eastern side of 29501, closer to downtown Florence, involves navigating local roads like Palmetto Street and Irby Street, which converge onto US-76. The drive to McLeod Regional Medical Center from these areas might take between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic flow. Other healthcare providers, such as specialty clinics and physician offices, are often clustered around the hospital, further concentrating the demand on these roadways. Careful consideration of traffic patterns and potential delays is crucial when scheduling appointments or seeking emergency care.

Public transportation, while present, poses significant limitations for those requiring healthcare access. The Florence Transit System operates several bus routes throughout the city, but their coverage within 29501 is limited. Route 1, for example, travels along Irby Street and Evans Street, offering some connectivity, but its frequency and reach are not always conducive to timely healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the system's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize the service. However, the fixed routes and limited operating hours restrict flexibility, making it challenging for those with complex medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Florence, providing an alternative transportation option. Their availability, however, can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with frequent appointments or limited financial resources. This variability introduces an element of uncertainty into the healthcare access equation.

Medical transportation services offer specialized support for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services, often provided by private companies, typically cater to individuals with disabilities, those requiring wheelchair assistance, or those unable to drive themselves. While these services can be invaluable, their availability and cost can vary. Thorough research and advance planning are essential to secure these services, ensuring reliable and timely transportation.

Considering the various transportation options, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 29501 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major roadways like I-95 and US-76 facilitates relatively quick access to McLeod Regional Medical Center for those with personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit and the variability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net, but its cost and availability must be factored into the overall assessment.

For individuals considering moving to Florence, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs, taking into account their mobility, financial resources, and the frequency of medical appointments. Proximity to major roadways, access to public transit routes, and the availability of ride-sharing services should be considered when choosing a location within 29501.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value but a reflection of the lived experiences of residents navigating the healthcare system. It highlights the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of healthcare access. This analysis underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing options, and ensure the affordability and accessibility of medical transportation services. These improvements are crucial to enhance the overall healthcare experience for individuals residing in 29501 and those considering making Florence their home.