29338, Fingerville, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29338, Fingerville, South Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 29338 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Spartanburg Medical Center with a distance of 12.13 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Fingerville, SC (ZIP Code 29338)

Fingerville, South Carolina, nestled in the rolling hills, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the complexities of modern life. Understanding the overall health score within ZIP code 29338 requires a deep dive into the critical intersection of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This analysis considers the geographical realities, available resources, and potential challenges faced by residents in their pursuit of well-being. For anyone **moving to Fingerville**, this is a crucial consideration.

The primary challenge for healthcare access in Fingerville lies in its relative remoteness. While the community enjoys a peaceful atmosphere, the distance to essential medical services significantly impacts its overall health score. The availability and efficiency of **transportation** options become paramount.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of accessing healthcare in Fingerville is by personal vehicle. The major arteries connecting the community to larger medical facilities are primarily state routes. Traveling south on SC-11 (Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway) offers a picturesque drive, but it adds considerable time to appointments, as the route winds through the countryside. This road provides access to Gaffney, approximately 15-20 minutes away, where Cherokee Medical Center is located.

Heading north on SC-11, one can reach Chesnee and eventually Spartanburg. The drive to Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, a major regional provider, is typically around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Interstate 85, accessible via SC-11 or SC-110, provides a faster, though often congested, route to Spartanburg and other regional hubs. The drive to Greenville, a larger metropolitan area with a wider array of specialized healthcare options, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

The condition of these roadways is generally good, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours on I-85, can significantly impact drive times and the overall stress levels of those seeking medical care. The presence of numerous stop signs and slower speed limits on the smaller, local roads also contribute to longer travel times.

**Public Transit:**

Public **transportation** options in Fingerville are limited. The Spartanburg Area Regional Transit Agency (SPARTA) provides some service within Spartanburg County, but its reach to Fingerville is extremely restricted. There are no direct routes that serve the area, and residents would likely need to drive to a SPARTA bus stop in a neighboring town, significantly increasing travel time and complexity. The frequency of SPARTA buses is also a factor, with limited service on weekends and evenings.

The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. While SPARTA buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, the overall lack of service in Fingerville negates this advantage.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Spartanburg area, but their presence in Fingerville is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. Companies like MedStar and CareRide provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, but their services often require advance booking and can be costly. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize other **transportation** options. The availability of these services, particularly for those with specific medical needs, is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access.

**Healthcare Facilities and Services:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within Fingerville itself is limited. Residents typically rely on facilities located in Gaffney or Spartanburg. Cherokee Medical Center in Gaffney offers a range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and some specialized services. Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System provides a more comprehensive range of services, including specialized care, advanced diagnostics, and surgical options.

The distance to these facilities necessitates reliable **transportation** options. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health services within a reasonable distance is a critical factor in the overall health score. The ability to access these services promptly and efficiently directly impacts health outcomes.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for Fingerville (ZIP code 29338) is influenced by the interplay of several factors. While the community may offer a tranquil environment, the limited **transportation** options and the distance to healthcare facilities present significant challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle ownership and maintenance. The lack of robust public **transportation** creates a barrier for vulnerable populations. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services are also crucial considerations.

The overall health score is further impacted by the availability of healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health providers, within a reasonable distance. The efficiency of the **transportation** system in accessing these services directly affects health outcomes.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score for Fingerville, several strategies could be implemented. Enhancing public **transportation** options, even on a limited basis, would benefit those without personal vehicles. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized rides for medical appointments could also be considered.

Promoting telehealth services and expanding access to remote consultations could mitigate the impact of distance. Encouraging the recruitment of healthcare professionals to the area, including primary care physicians and specialists, would improve access to care.

Finally, community outreach programs that educate residents about available **transportation** options, healthcare resources, and preventative care strategies would contribute to improving the overall health and well-being of the Fingerville community. This is especially important for those **moving to Fingerville**, as they will need to familiarize themselves with the available resources. The health score is a dynamic measure, constantly evolving based on the community's efforts to address these challenges and improve the overall quality of life.