29532, Darlington, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29532, Darlington, South Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.13 percent of residents in 29532 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mcleod Regional Medical Center-Pee Dee with a distance of 9.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Darlington, SC (ZIP Code 29532)

Considering a move to Darlington, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29532)? This analysis explores the accessibility of lung cancer healthcare within the area, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" based on transportation options. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, providing a comprehensive overview of healthcare access for potential residents. Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals managing or at risk of lung cancer, ensuring timely and convenient access to potentially life-saving treatments.

Darlington, a charming town nestled in the Pee Dee region, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. While the area offers a slower pace of life, healthcare access requires careful consideration. The "Lung Cancer Score" will help you assess the ease with which you can reach vital medical services.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore a critical component of our score. The most significant healthcare provider in the region is McLeod Health Darlington, located within the town. This proximity is a significant advantage for residents.

Accessing McLeod Health Darlington is generally straightforward. From most locations within the 29532 ZIP code, the drive is typically less than 10 minutes. Major roadways like South Main Street and North Main Street provide direct routes. The ease of access to this facility contributes positively to the "Lung Cancer Score."

However, specialized oncology services, including radiation therapy and advanced diagnostic imaging, may necessitate travel to larger facilities. For instance, McLeod Health Seacoast in Little River, SC, offers comprehensive cancer care. The drive to Little River, primarily via I-95 South and SC-9 East, can take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer travel time, while manageable, impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," highlighting the importance of planning and potential inconvenience for regular appointments.

Another option is McLeod Health Florence, located in Florence, SC. This facility is a major regional healthcare hub, offering a full spectrum of cancer services. The drive to Florence, primarily via I-95 North, is approximately 30 minutes, making it a more accessible option than Little River. This shorter drive time is a positive factor in the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Darlington are limited. The Pee Dee Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PDRTA) provides bus services within the region. However, the routes are infrequent and primarily focused on serving essential needs, such as employment and shopping. Public transit is not generally designed to cater to specialized healthcare needs.

Unfortunately, the PDRTA routes serving Darlington are not specifically designed for easy access to major healthcare facilities. The lack of direct routes and the infrequent schedules make public transit a less viable option for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments. ADA accessibility features are available on PDRTA buses, but the overall limitations impact the "Lung Cancer Score" negatively.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Darlington area. These services can provide a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, especially for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the availability of ride-sharing can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance services or specialized non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are also available. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. They offer a higher level of support and are often equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation services improves the "Lung Cancer Score," offering alternative transportation options. However, the cost of these services and potential delays in securing rides should be considered.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Considerations for Moving to Darlington**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Darlington, SC (29532) is a mixed bag. The proximity of McLeod Health Darlington provides excellent access to basic healthcare services. The drive times to Florence are reasonable. However, the longer drive to Little River, the limitations of public transit, and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport for specialized care impact the overall score.

For individuals considering a move to Darlington, the following recommendations are crucial. Prioritize proximity to McLeod Health Darlington. If specialized cancer care is required, factor in the travel time to Florence or Little River. Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. If you rely on public transit, be aware of the limited routes and schedules.

Moving to Darlington offers a quieter lifestyle, but it is essential to weigh the convenience of healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for making informed decisions, ensuring that your healthcare needs are met in a timely and efficient manner. The score highlights the importance of planning, understanding available resources, and proactively addressing transportation challenges.