29449, Hollywood, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29449, Hollywood, South Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

28.26 percent of residents in 29449 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours-St Francis Xavier Hospital with a distance of 13.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29449

Welcome to Hollywood, South Carolina, ZIP code 29449, a charming community nestled in the Lowcountry. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on healthcare accessibility through various transportation options. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents and prospective newcomers, particularly those considering moving to Hollywood and prioritizing healthcare access. This score integrates drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape.

The foundation of healthcare access in 29449 lies in the ability to reach medical facilities. For many, this means driving. The primary thoroughfares impacting commute times are **Highway 17 (Savannah Highway)**, the main artery connecting Hollywood to Charleston and surrounding areas, and **Highway 162 (Bells Highway)**, which serves as a crucial connector to the west. These roads, while offering direct routes, can experience congestion, especially during peak hours. The overall drive time to the nearest major healthcare providers, such as Roper St. Francis Mount Pleasant Hospital or MUSC Health University Medical Center, can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions.

Expect a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes to reach these hospitals during off-peak hours, navigating the relatively straightforward routes. However, during rush hour, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, this commute can easily extend to an hour or more. This is a critical consideration for residents needing immediate medical attention or frequent appointments. The condition of the roads, including potential construction, also plays a role in determining the efficiency of these commutes.

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The Charleston Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (CARTA) provides bus service in the area, though it is limited in Hollywood. Route 10, for instance, serves the area, but its frequency and coverage are restricted compared to routes within the city of Charleston. While CARTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, the limited routes and infrequent schedules can make it challenging for residents to reach healthcare facilities, especially those requiring specialized care or facing mobility limitations.

The lack of comprehensive public transit emphasizes the importance of other transportation options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in the area, providing a convenient, albeit potentially costly, alternative to driving. While ride-sharing offers on-demand access to healthcare facilities, the cost can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments or long-distance travel. Furthermore, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited driver presence.

Beyond ride-sharing, specialized medical transport services cater to individuals with specific needs. Companies like MedTrans and others offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for those requiring assistance with mobility or those unable to drive themselves. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. However, availability and cost vary, and booking in advance is typically required. This is a crucial resource for individuals with disabilities, elderly residents, or those recovering from surgery.

The overall "Health Score" for healthcare access in 29449 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. While the presence of major highways offers relatively direct routes, the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact commute times. The limited public transit options and the reliance on ride-sharing services introduce additional considerations regarding cost and accessibility. The availability of specialized medical transport services provides a vital safety net for those with specific needs.

When considering moving to Hollywood, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those with mobility limitations or requiring frequent medical appointments should factor in the potential costs and limitations of ride-sharing or the need for specialized medical transport. The availability of reliable transportation is crucial for maintaining good health and well-being.

The "Health Score" also reflects the impact of healthcare provider proximity. While Hollywood is a relatively short drive from major hospitals and medical centers, the time required to reach these facilities can vary significantly based on traffic conditions. Access to urgent care facilities and primary care physicians within the immediate area is also a critical factor in assessing overall healthcare accessibility.

The overall health score for transportation to healthcare in 29449 is moderate. While the area benefits from proximity to major healthcare providers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances when evaluating healthcare access in this community. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability must be factored into the equation.

Furthermore, it's important to remember that healthcare access extends beyond transportation. The availability of healthcare providers within the community, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities, significantly impacts the overall health score. The quality of care, insurance coverage, and the ability to afford healthcare services also play critical roles.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for 29449 highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare accessibility. While the area offers access to major healthcare providers, the challenges associated with commute times, limited public transit, and the reliance on ride-sharing services necessitate careful consideration. Prospective residents considering moving to Hollywood should thoroughly evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements to ensure they can effectively access the care they need. The availability of specialized medical transport services provides a vital safety net, but the overall score reflects a need for improved public transit options and a greater emphasis on healthcare access within the community.