29556, Kingstree, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29556, Kingstree, South Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.06 percent of residents in 29556 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Williamsburg Regional Hospital with a distance of 1.55 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kingstree, SC (ZIP Code 29556)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. This write-up assesses healthcare access within ZIP Code 29556, Kingstree, South Carolina, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" based on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. The score considers the availability, accessibility, and efficiency of various modes of transport, recognizing that the ability to reach specialists, treatment centers, and support services directly influences a patient’s prognosis and quality of life. Moving to Kingstree necessitates a thorough understanding of these crucial elements.

Kingstree, nestled in Williamsburg County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, often translates to limited access to specialized medical care. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects this reality, acknowledging the potential hurdles patients face in navigating the healthcare landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Kingstree is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this option, however, is directly tied to the condition of roadways and the distances involved. For residents of 29556, accessing comprehensive lung cancer care typically means traveling to larger medical centers located outside the immediate area.

The most direct route to major healthcare facilities often involves navigating US-52, a key artery connecting Kingstree to Florence and Charleston. Driving to Florence, home to McLeod Health Florence, a regional medical center, requires approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive, depending on traffic. US-52 is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise from occasional construction or accidents.

Charleston, a more distant option, offers a broader range of specialized care, including comprehensive cancer centers. The journey to Charleston, primarily via US-52 and I-26, can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. I-26, while a major interstate, can experience significant delays, especially near Charleston. This extended travel time significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," as it can create barriers to timely appointments, treatment, and follow-up care.

Smaller, local healthcare providers in Kingstree itself offer some basic services. However, for specialized lung cancer treatment, including radiation oncology and advanced surgical procedures, patients are almost always required to travel to Florence or Charleston. The condition of secondary roads, such as SC-261 and SC-514, also contributes to the overall commute time, especially for those living on the outskirts of Kingstree.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Kingstree are extremely limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. Williamsburg County does offer a public transit service, the Williamsburg County Transportation System. However, this system operates on a demand-response basis, requiring advance scheduling and potentially long wait times.

The accessibility of this service for lung cancer patients is also a concern. While the service is advertised as ADA-compliant, meaning it should accommodate individuals with disabilities, the practical implementation of these features can vary. The limited frequency of service, combined with the need for advance booking, makes it a less-than-ideal option for urgent appointments or frequent treatments. The absence of fixed-route buses further complicates matters, as patients must rely on the system’s ability to navigate to their specific location. This severely affects the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Kingstree area, though their availability may be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a critical consideration for patients undergoing treatment, as delays or cancellations can disrupt their care schedule.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, are available for patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. These services, while offering a higher level of support, come with a substantial cost, often not fully covered by insurance. The "Lung Cancer Score" acknowledges the financial burden associated with these options, which can further limit access to care for some patients.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" for 29556**

Based on the above analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 29556 is **moderate to low**. The score reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access in a rural setting. While personal vehicle ownership provides the primary means of transportation, the distances to specialized medical centers, potential traffic delays, and the limited availability of public transportation and ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score.

The score also considers the financial burden associated with accessing care, particularly for those who rely on medical transport or ride-sharing services. The lack of readily available, affordable, and reliable transportation options can significantly impact a patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans, attend follow-up appointments, and receive the comprehensive care they need.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Kingstree or currently residing in the area, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare access is crucial. Potential residents should factor in the drive times to major medical centers, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the limitations of public transportation.

Patients diagnosed with lung cancer should proactively explore all available transportation options, including seeking assistance from family members, friends, or support organizations. They should also inquire about patient assistance programs offered by healthcare providers or pharmaceutical companies to help offset the costs of transportation.

The local community can play a vital role in improving healthcare access. This can be achieved through advocating for improved public transportation services, supporting local healthcare initiatives, and promoting awareness of available resources. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a call to action, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare access and ensure that all residents of Kingstree have the opportunity to receive timely and effective lung cancer care.