29020, Camden, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29020, Camden, South Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.09 percent of residents in 29020 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Kershawhealth with a distance of 1.92 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29020 (Camden, SC)

Understanding the ease with which residents of ZIP Code 29020 can access healthcare is crucial for assessing their overall health. This analysis considers the multifaceted nature of transportation, evaluating drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. These factors coalesce to paint a picture of healthcare access, a vital component when considering moving to Camden.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Camden is the proximity to medical facilities. The KershawHealth Medical Center, a key provider, is located within the ZIP Code, offering primary and specialty care. However, the accessibility of other crucial healthcare services, such as specialized clinics, hospitals in neighboring cities, and emergency care, relies heavily on transportation infrastructure.

For those who drive, the major arteries impacting healthcare access are US-1, US-521, and SC-34. The drive time to KershawHealth Medical Center is typically minimal, offering immediate access to local care. However, journeys to larger medical centers in Columbia, such as Prisma Health Richland Hospital, require navigating these roads. The commute, often along I-20, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. This time commitment can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely care, especially during emergencies.

Public transportation, a critical element of healthcare access, offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Unfortunately, the public transit options in Camden are limited. The Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority (CMRTA), operating under the brand name "The COMET," provides some service to Camden. However, the routes, schedules, and frequency of service are limited, potentially hindering residents' ability to reach medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with disabilities. The COMET strives to provide accessible transportation, but the limited routes and infrequent service present challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Camden, offering a more flexible transportation solution. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. This can be a significant hurdle for residents needing immediate medical attention or scheduled appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, impacting their ability to access healthcare.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, play a crucial role, especially for those with mobility limitations. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) operate in the area, offering specialized vehicles and trained personnel. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, impacting healthcare access.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 29020 is affected by several factors. While the presence of a local medical center offers immediate care, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The drive times to larger medical centers in Columbia, even with the convenience of I-20, can be a significant barrier. The limited public transportation options, despite the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, restrict access for those who cannot drive.

The availability of ride-sharing services offers a degree of flexibility, but their cost and potential unreliability can be problematic. Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for those with mobility limitations, but their availability and cost must be considered.

This assessment highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape when considering moving to Camden. The overall health score is influenced by the interplay of all these factors. The ability to easily and affordably access healthcare is paramount for the well-being of residents. Improving public transit, expanding ride-sharing availability, and ensuring the affordability of medical transport services would significantly enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health score for ZIP Code 29020.

Ultimately, the accessibility of healthcare in Camden is a complex issue. The drive times, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing, and the presence of medical transport services all contribute to the overall health score. A comprehensive approach to improving transportation infrastructure, expanding public transit options, and ensuring the availability of affordable ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial for enhancing healthcare access and promoting the health and well-being of all residents.