29555, Johnsonville, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29555, Johnsonville, South Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.56 percent of residents in 29555 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake City Community Hospital with a distance of 16.79 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Johnsonville, SC (ZIP Code 29555)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and possibility in Johnsonville, South Carolina. A community steeped in history and resilience, Johnsonville, like many rural areas, faces unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. This write-up explores the landscape of transportation and its impact on lung cancer care within the 29555 ZIP code, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for potential residents or those considering a move. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

For individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer, timely access to specialized care is paramount. The “Lung Cancer Score” considers the ease and efficiency with which a resident of Johnsonville can reach crucial medical services, particularly those related to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Factors like proximity to hospitals, specialists, and radiation therapy centers significantly influence this score, alongside the availability and reliability of transportation options. This analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities that exist within the context of healthcare access in this community.

**The Road to Recovery: Drive Times and Highways**

The primary arteries connecting Johnsonville to specialized healthcare are highways and state roads. The nearest major hospital with comprehensive cancer care, McLeod Health Clarendon, is located in Manning, SC. The drive, primarily via US-378 East, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and time of day. This journey, though manageable, can be taxing for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

Another crucial destination is McLeod Health Seacoast in Little River, SC. This facility offers advanced cancer care, including radiation therapy. The drive, utilizing SC-41 and US-76 East, can range from an hour and 15 minutes to an hour and 45 minutes. This longer travel time presents a significant challenge, particularly for patients requiring frequent appointments.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are available in the surrounding towns of Lake City and Florence. These facilities provide initial screening and support services, but advanced cancer treatments are typically centralized in larger hospitals. Reaching these facilities involves navigating local roads like SC-378, US-52, and SC-341.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Johnsonville is extremely limited. The Pee Dee Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PDRTA) provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While PDRTA aims to serve the elderly, disabled, and low-income populations, the availability of these services is subject to scheduling constraints and route limitations.

The PDRTA does not have a dedicated route that directly serves the hospitals mentioned above. This means that patients relying on public transit may need to arrange multiple transfers or rely on family and friends for transportation. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, but the overall system's limitations significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score." The lack of convenient and reliable public transit presents a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles or access to alternative transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Florence area but may have limited presence in Johnsonville itself. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. This lack of consistent service makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans and First Call Medical Transportation, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be costly, and availability may be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments. The cost of these services can become a significant financial burden for patients, potentially impacting their ability to access necessary care.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Johnsonville, SC (29555) reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural environment. The score is negatively impacted by:

* **Distance to Specialized Care:** The travel times to hospitals with comprehensive cancer care are considerable.
* **Limited Public Transit:** The lack of a robust public transportation system leaves many residents reliant on personal vehicles or limited demand-response services.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Limitations:** The inconsistent availability of ride-sharing and the cost of medical transport services pose significant barriers.

For individuals considering moving to Johnsonville, or those already residing there, the following factors should be carefully considered:

* **Personal Transportation:** Owning a reliable vehicle is essential for accessing healthcare.
* **Support Network:** Having a strong support network of family and friends who can provide transportation assistance is invaluable.
* **Financial Planning:** Budgeting for transportation costs, including gas, maintenance, ride-sharing, or medical transport, is crucial.
* **Proactive Healthcare Planning:** Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in Johnsonville is a good first step. Discussing transportation needs and available resources with the healthcare team can help navigate the challenges of accessing care.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Johnsonville, with its small-town charm, offers a unique lifestyle. However, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful consideration regarding healthcare access. While the community provides a welcoming environment, the distance to specialized care and the limited transportation options present challenges for those affected by lung cancer. By understanding these factors and proactively planning for healthcare needs, residents of Johnsonville can navigate the landscape and ensure access to the vital care they deserve. The journey to Johnsonville requires careful planning, but the rewards of a close-knit community and a slower pace of life may be worth the effort.