29664, Mountain Rest, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29664, Mountain Rest, South Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.35 percent of residents in 29664 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital with a distance of 14.69 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mountain Rest, SC (ZIP Code 29664)

The crisp mountain air of Mountain Rest, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29664), offers a serene escape, a haven for those seeking tranquility. However, the idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: healthcare access. This report, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available to residents, particularly those facing the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. We will explore the realities of reaching essential medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. This assessment aims to provide a clear picture for anyone considering **moving to Mountain Rest** or for current residents needing to understand their **healthcare access** landscape.

The primary concern for lung cancer patients is timely access to specialized medical care, including oncologists, pulmonologists, radiation therapists, and surgical specialists. In Mountain Rest, the closest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Greenville, approximately 70 miles away, and Asheville, North Carolina, roughly 60 miles distant. These distances translate into significant travel times, impacting treatment schedules and overall well-being.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for Mountain Rest residents. The journey to Greenville typically involves navigating Highway 28, a winding two-lane road that can be slow-going, especially during peak traffic hours or inclement weather. This route then merges onto US-276, which becomes the primary artery into Greenville. Expect a drive time of around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route to Asheville, generally a faster drive, utilizes Highway 28 for a portion before connecting to US-25, a major thoroughfare. This journey should take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.

The secondary roads, like the less-traveled SC-107, offer scenic routes but often add significant time to the commute. These roads are not ideal for patients experiencing fatigue, pain, or other debilitating symptoms associated with lung cancer treatment. The reliability of a personal vehicle is therefore crucial, and any mechanical issues or vehicle limitations can severely impact **healthcare access**.

Public transit options are extremely limited in this rural area. Greenville, the nearest city with a somewhat established public transit system, is served by the Greenlink bus network. However, Greenlink's routes are not designed to serve the Mountain Rest area directly. There are no direct routes, and the journey would necessitate multiple transfers, adding several hours to the travel time. This option is impractical for most patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Furthermore, the lack of ADA-accessible buses on all routes further limits the viability of public **transportation** for many lung cancer patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Greenville area. However, their availability in Mountain Rest is less consistent. Securing a ride, particularly during off-peak hours or for long-distance trips to Greenville or Asheville, can be challenging. The cost of ride-sharing can also quickly become prohibitive, especially considering the frequency of appointments required for lung cancer treatment. This creates a potential barrier to **healthcare access** for those without reliable personal vehicles.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, catering specifically to the needs of patients requiring assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. Companies such as MedTrans and First Call Medical Transport provide services in the Greenville and surrounding areas. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the cost of medical transport can be considerable, and insurance coverage varies. Patients must carefully investigate their insurance plans and explore potential financial assistance programs to ensure they can afford this option.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mountain Rest, SC (ZIP Code 29664) reflects a challenging landscape. The primary determinant of **healthcare access** is reliable personal **transportation**. The long drive times to specialized medical facilities in Greenville and Asheville, coupled with the limitations of public transit and the uncertainties of ride-sharing, present significant hurdles for lung cancer patients. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline, but its cost and insurance coverage limitations must be carefully considered.

For those considering **moving to Mountain Rest**, or for current residents, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning. Individuals with a history of smoking or other risk factors for lung cancer should prioritize establishing a strong healthcare network before relocating. This includes identifying specialists in Greenville or Asheville, understanding their insurance coverage, and exploring all available **transportation** options.

Furthermore, the local community can play a vital role in improving **healthcare access**. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, supporting the development of local healthcare facilities, and promoting awareness of available resources for patients. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a more supportive environment for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer in Mountain Rest.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a number; it is a reflection of the real-world challenges faced by individuals battling this disease. It underscores the critical need for comprehensive planning, community support, and a commitment to improving **healthcare access** for all residents of Mountain Rest, SC (ZIP Code 29664). The journey to recovery is already arduous; the burden of navigating complex **transportation** challenges should not compound it.