29568, Longs, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29568, Longs, South Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.18 percent of residents in 29568 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grand Strand Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.02 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Longs, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29568)

The specter of lung cancer looms large, demanding proactive healthcare access. This write-up explores the landscape of healthcare access in Longs, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29568), specifically focusing on transportation options for individuals seeking lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Longs. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" – a subjective assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing vital healthcare services.

Longs, nestled in Horry County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, it necessitates navigating the nuances of transportation to access specialized medical care. This is a critical consideration for anyone facing or at risk of lung cancer, where timely intervention is paramount. The goal is to illuminate the pathways to healthcare, empowering informed decisions and potentially influencing the Lung Cancer Score.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries to Healthcare**

The primary mode of transportation in Longs is the personal vehicle. Healthcare access hinges significantly on drive times, dictated by the road network. The closest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach.

From Longs, the most direct route to Myrtle Beach Regional Medical Center (MBRMC) involves a journey south on Highway 9, merging onto Highway 22 (Conway Bypass) before reaching Highway 17 Bypass South. This drive, typically spanning 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions, can be considerably longer during peak hours, especially during tourist season. Traffic congestion on Highway 17 Bypass, a major thoroughfare, is a significant factor.

Alternatively, for those seeking care at Grand Strand Medical Center in Myrtle Beach, the route follows Highway 9 south, connecting to Highway 501 East, then to Highway 17 Bypass South. This route, slightly longer, can take 30-40 minutes, again contingent on traffic.

North Myrtle Beach offers access to McLeod Health Carolina Forest and other medical facilities. The route involves traveling south on Highway 9, then turning onto Highway 17 North. This trip, typically taking 15-25 minutes, is generally less congested than the routes to Myrtle Beach, offering a potentially faster healthcare access.

Consideration must be given to the potential for delays due to accidents, construction, or seasonal traffic surges. These variables can significantly impact drive times, emphasizing the importance of planning and considering alternative routes. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, must reflect the inherent variability in drive times and the potential for increased travel stress during a vulnerable period.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Longs is limited. The Coast RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) provides bus service throughout Horry County. However, the routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare needs.

Route 15, the primary route serving the Longs area, offers limited service to Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach. The frequency is typically hourly or less, with reduced service on weekends. This makes relying on public transit for time-sensitive medical appointments challenging.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. Coast RTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations. However, the extended travel times, infrequent service, and potential for multiple transfers pose significant hurdles for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the inadequacy of public transit as a primary means of accessing lung cancer-related healthcare.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Longs area. They provide a more flexible transportation option than public transit, offering door-to-door service. However, the availability of drivers can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. Surge pricing, common during peak hours, can also add to the cost of transportation.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Companies like Senior Services of Horry County and others provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, potentially impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Subjective Assessment**

Based on the analysis, the Lung Cancer Score for accessing lung cancer-related healthcare in Longs (ZIP Code 29568) is moderate. While drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. Ride-sharing services offer a viable alternative, but availability and cost can be factors. Medical transport provides a specialized solution, but its cost and booking requirements can be significant.

The Lung Cancer Score is further impacted by the potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak seasons, and the need for careful planning. Individuals considering moving to Longs or residing in the area should factor in these transportation considerations when evaluating healthcare access. Proactive planning, including identifying alternative transportation options, is crucial for ensuring timely access to vital medical services.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a definitive metric but a subjective assessment based on the available information. It underscores the importance of considering transportation as an integral aspect of healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing the complexities of lung cancer. The goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge necessary to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively, ensuring that transportation does not become a barrier to timely and appropriate medical care.