29564, Lane, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29564, Lane, South Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

14.40 percent of residents in 29564 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Williamsburg Regional Hospital with a distance of 10.60 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 29564**

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and decisive action. Early detection and access to specialized care are paramount for improved outcomes. This report analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 29564, aiming to assess the ease with which residents can access critical healthcare services, specifically those related to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access. The goal is to inform residents and potential newcomers about the realities of navigating the healthcare system in this area, particularly when time is of the essence.

The foundation of this analysis is rooted in the principle that timely access to healthcare is a fundamental right. This is especially true for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. The score will evaluate the availability of transportation options, taking into account the specific needs of patients, including those with mobility limitations. The score will also examine the proximity of healthcare facilities offering lung cancer screening, diagnostic services, and treatment options. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Lane, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and effective care.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

For many residents of ZIP Code 29564, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this mode is largely determined by the road network and traffic conditions. The main thoroughfare is US-501, which provides a direct route to Myrtle Beach, a hub for healthcare services. During peak hours, travel on US-501 can be congested, adding significant time to commutes.

Another important route is SC-544, which offers access to various medical facilities. However, this road is also susceptible to traffic, especially during school hours and the tourist season. The drive time to the nearest major hospital, Grand Strand Medical Center, located in Myrtle Beach, typically ranges from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

Smaller roads, such as Dick Pond Road and Holmestown Road, provide alternative routes, but they are often less direct and may be subject to local traffic congestion. Residents should be aware of these potential delays when planning appointments or seeking emergency care. The drive time to specialist clinics and treatment centers in the area is crucial to consider.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation in ZIP Code 29564 is limited, which presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider is Coast RTA, which operates a network of bus routes. Route 15, for example, connects Conway to Myrtle Beach, passing through parts of ZIP Code 29564.

However, the frequency of these routes may be limited, and the travel times can be significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. While Coast RTA strives to provide accessible services, the coverage and frequency of these routes might not always meet the needs of all residents, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The lack of comprehensive public transportation can create a barrier to healthcare access, especially for those who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is a critical factor in assessing the Lung Cancer Score, as it directly impacts the ability of residents to reach medical facilities. The efficiency of public transit is a key factor in the overall healthcare access landscape.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the location within ZIP Code 29564. During peak hours or in less populated areas, wait times for ride-sharing services can be longer, potentially delaying access to medical care.

Medical transport services, such as First Transit and MedRide, are designed to cater specifically to the needs of patients requiring transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services may require prior booking and can incur additional costs.

The accessibility and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial considerations in the Lung Cancer Score. These services can bridge the gap in healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to public transportation. The reliability and cost-effectiveness of these services are vital for ensuring timely access to healthcare.

**Healthcare Facilities and Proximity**

The proximity of healthcare facilities offering lung cancer screening, diagnostic services, and treatment options is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Grand Strand Medical Center, located in Myrtle Beach, is the closest major hospital, offering comprehensive cancer care services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

Several other medical facilities, including specialist clinics and outpatient centers, are located within a reasonable driving distance. These facilities offer a range of services, including pulmonology consultations, CT scans, and other diagnostic procedures. The availability of these services within a reasonable travel time is essential for ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.

The location of these facilities, coupled with the transportation options available, directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. The closer the facilities, and the more accessible the transportation, the higher the score. This is a critical factor for residents of ZIP Code 29564, especially those at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer.

**The Lung Cancer Score: An Integrated Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 29564 is a composite measure that considers the factors discussed above. It assesses the accessibility of healthcare services related to lung cancer, taking into account drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and the proximity of healthcare facilities. The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating greater ease of access to care.

The score will also highlight specific challenges and opportunities for improvement. For example, the limited public transportation options may negatively impact the score, while the availability of ride-sharing services could partially mitigate this challenge. The score will be a dynamic measure, subject to change as transportation infrastructure and healthcare services evolve.

This assessment is not just a numerical score; it is a call to action. It highlights the importance of improving transportation infrastructure and expanding healthcare access for all residents. For individuals considering moving to Lane, this score provides valuable insights into the realities of accessing healthcare in the area. It is a vital tool for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Care**

Access to timely and effective healthcare is a fundamental right, especially for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 29564 provides a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. While the area offers some healthcare resources, the limited public transportation options and potential traffic congestion present challenges.

Residents should be aware of these factors when planning appointments and seeking medical care. Exploring ride-sharing services, medical transport options, and the most efficient routes to healthcare facilities is crucial. For those considering moving to Lane, a thorough understanding of the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access is essential.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a starting point for further investigation and advocacy. It is a reminder that improving healthcare access is an ongoing process that requires collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community members. By working together, we can ensure that all residents of ZIP Code 29564 have the opportunity to receive the timely and effective care they deserve. This is the ultimate goal of this assessment: to empower individuals to navigate the healthcare system with confidence and to advocate for improvements that will benefit the entire community.