29135, Saint Matthews, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29135, Saint Matthews, South Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.93 percent of residents in 29135 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Trmc Of Orangeburg & Calhoun with a distance of 11.62 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29135 (Saint Matthews, SC)

The health and well-being of residents in Saint Matthews, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29135), are significantly intertwined with their ability to access healthcare. This "Overall Health Score" assesses the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical facilities, considering various transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ADA-compliant features are analyzed to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Saint Matthews, offering insights into the practicalities of maintaining their health in the area.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is likely the personal vehicle. The town's layout and the location of healthcare facilities dictate the reliance on driving. The main thoroughfare, US-21 (North and South), is a critical artery, providing access to local medical practices and connecting to larger healthcare hubs. Residents traveling south on US-21 can reach Orangeburg, a regional center with a hospital and specialist services. The drive to Orangeburg, approximately 15-20 minutes, is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion during peak hours can extend this travel time.

Another important route is SC-601, which runs east-west through Saint Matthews. This road offers access to local businesses and healthcare providers. For more specialized care, residents might need to travel to Columbia, the state capital, roughly 45-60 minutes away. This journey typically involves taking US-21 to I-26 East, a major interstate highway. The drive to Columbia, while longer, provides access to a wider array of hospitals, clinics, and specialist physicians. However, this longer commute introduces the potential for increased stress, fuel costs, and the risk of accidents, all of which can negatively impact health.

Public transportation options in Saint Matthews are limited, posing a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. While specific route numbers and schedules are not readily available for detailed analysis, the availability of public transit is significantly less than in larger metropolitan areas. The absence of a robust public transit system, including limited ADA-compliant features, disproportionately affects the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. This lack of transportation options can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability and affordability in Saint Matthews may be limited. The cost of ride-sharing, particularly for longer distances to Columbia or Orangeburg, can be a barrier for some residents. Furthermore, the reliability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be uncertain. This uncertainty can create anxiety for individuals who depend on these services for critical medical appointments.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients with mobility limitations or other healthcare needs, provide another crucial element of the transportation landscape. These services, offered by specialized companies, often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services are essential for some, they can be expensive and may require advance booking, which can be problematic in urgent situations. The availability and responsiveness of medical transport services are critical for ensuring that vulnerable populations can access necessary medical care.

Healthcare access is intrinsically linked to the availability and efficiency of transportation options. The geographical distance to healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation modes, and the associated costs all contribute to the overall health score. In Saint Matthews, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential constraints of ride-sharing and medical transport services present both opportunities and challenges.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 29135 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare providers in the immediate area and in nearby Orangeburg, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create barriers for some. The longer commute to Columbia for specialized care adds to the complexity. The affordability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further influence the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Saint Matthews, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should factor in the drive times, the cost of transportation, and the availability of support services when making their decision.

Improving healthcare access in Saint Matthews requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation, including ADA-compliant features, would significantly enhance accessibility for a broader range of residents. Promoting ride-sharing services and subsidizing their use for healthcare appointments could also help. Furthermore, expanding the availability of medical transport services and ensuring their affordability are essential.

Ultimately, the overall health score reflects the complex interplay between transportation and healthcare access. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, residents, healthcare providers, and local authorities can work together to create a healthier and more accessible community in Saint Matthews, South Carolina. This commitment to improving transportation options will directly contribute to the well-being of the residents and make Saint Matthews an even more attractive place to live.