29030, Cameron, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29030, Cameron, South Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.84 percent of residents in 29030 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Trmc Of Orangeburg & Calhoun with a distance of 15.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29030 (Cameron, SC)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 29030, focusing on their ability to access healthcare services. The score considers various transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, evaluating their efficiency, accessibility, and overall impact on health outcomes. Understanding these factors is crucial for current and prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Cameron, SC.

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. This access is significantly influenced by transportation infrastructure and available options. A low score indicates significant barriers, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments, hindering preventative care, and exacerbating existing health conditions. Conversely, a high score suggests readily available and efficient transportation options, fostering a healthier community.

**Driving and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 29030 is personal vehicle. The town of Cameron is relatively small, and the surrounding area is predominantly rural. Accessing specialized care often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities like Orangeburg, Lexington, and Columbia.

Travel times vary considerably depending on the destination and time of day. For example, reaching the nearest hospital, the Regional Medical Center in Orangeburg, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via **US-178** and **US-301**. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend this commute.

Traveling to Lexington Medical Center in West Columbia, a more comprehensive facility, requires a longer journey, typically around 45-60 minutes. This route generally involves taking **US-178** to **I-26 East** and then **US-378 East**. The condition of these roads, especially **US-178**, can influence travel times, and residents should consider potential delays due to roadwork or accidents.

Columbia, the state capital, offers a wider array of specialized medical services. Reaching facilities like Prisma Health Richland Hospital or the University of South Carolina School of Medicine requires a drive of approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily via **I-26 East**.

The availability of a personal vehicle is thus a critical factor in healthcare access for residents of 29030. Those without reliable transportation face significant challenges in reaching necessary medical appointments and treatments.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in 29030 are extremely limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive public transit system like those found in larger metropolitan areas. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

The Orangeburg County Transportation System (OCTS) provides some limited services within Orangeburg County. However, these services are primarily focused on connecting residents to local resources and may not adequately address the need for transportation to healthcare facilities outside of Orangeburg.

Information regarding the OCTS routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features is crucial for residents who might rely on public transportation. Residents should contact the OCTS directly for the most up-to-date information. The absence of a robust public transit system is a significant factor in the overall health score for 29030.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and affordability can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for some residents, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services is also a concern, as wait times can be long, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized option. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the area, including, but not limited to, First Medical Transportation and Care Ride. However, these services may require advance booking and can be costly. The availability of these services can be a lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or other health conditions.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Cameron**

The overall health score for 29030 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation create significant barriers to healthcare access for some residents.

Individuals considering moving to Cameron should carefully assess their transportation needs and their ability to access healthcare. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations may find it challenging to access the necessary medical services.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity is also a factor. While Cameron has some local medical providers, residents often need to travel to Orangeburg, Lexington, or Columbia for specialized care. This travel distance and the associated transportation challenges are critical considerations for the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for healthcare access in 29030 is moderate. While driving provides a primary means of transportation, the lack of robust public transit, the potential limitations of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation create challenges for certain segments of the population.

To improve the health score, several recommendations are crucial. Enhancing public transportation options, even with limited routes, would significantly benefit residents. This could involve expanding the services of the OCTS or exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments.

Promoting awareness of available medical transportation services and providing financial assistance to low-income residents would also improve access. Furthermore, attracting additional healthcare providers to the area, including specialists, would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care.

The health of the community in 29030 is directly tied to its ability to access healthcare. Addressing the transportation challenges and implementing the recommendations will contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community for all residents, particularly those considering moving to Cameron.