29479, Saint Stephen, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29479, Saint Stephen, South Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.81 percent of residents in 29479 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Williamsburg Regional Hospital with a distance of 19.67 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29479

Welcome to Saint Stephen, South Carolina, a community nestled in the heart of Berkeley County. This assessment delves into the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 29479, focusing specifically on the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical component of health is the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities, and this write-up examines the **transportation** landscape shaping **healthcare access** for those residing in this area. We will explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for anyone considering **moving to Saint Stephen**.

The foundation of healthcare access in 29479 is largely built upon personal vehicles. Given the rural nature of the area, the reliance on cars is significant. The primary artery connecting Saint Stephen to Charleston and surrounding medical hubs is US-52, a major highway that sees considerable traffic. Residents can expect drive times to vary depending on the destination and time of day. For instance, a trip to the closest urgent care facility in Moncks Corner might take approximately 20-30 minutes, while a visit to a larger hospital in Charleston could stretch to an hour or more, especially during peak commuting hours.

Navigating US-52 can be challenging, particularly during rush hour. The road is primarily two lanes in each direction, and congestion can build up significantly, especially near intersections and in areas with commercial development. Residents should factor in potential delays when planning appointments or seeking urgent care. Other key roads include SC-45, which provides access to areas further north, and local roads like Old Highway 52, which offer alternative routes, though often with slower speeds and more stops.

Public transit options are limited in 29479. The Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments (BCDCOG) operates a regional transit system, but its service area is not extensive in this specific ZIP code. While some routes might touch the periphery, direct and frequent service within Saint Stephen is unlikely. This lack of robust public **transportation** presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who do not own vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The BCDCOG transit system is designed with some ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including accessible buses and lift-equipped vehicles. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules make it challenging for individuals with mobility limitations to rely on public transit for medical appointments. The lack of readily available public **transportation** is a critical factor impacting the overall health score in this area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Charleston metropolitan area, but their presence in Saint Stephen is less consistent. While a ride might be secured, wait times can be longer, and the cost can be higher compared to urban areas. The reliability of ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is questionable, and residents should not depend on it as their primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare.

Medical transport services are available, but their availability and cost vary. Companies like Medstar and AMR (American Medical Response) offer ambulance services for emergency situations. However, these services are expensive and are generally reserved for critical medical needs. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services, which provide **transportation** for appointments and other medical needs, are also available, but their availability and coverage within 29479 might be limited.

The overall health score for residents of 29479 concerning **healthcare access** is moderate, with significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public **transportation** options and inconsistent ride-sharing availability, creates barriers for many. The drive times to healthcare facilities, especially during peak hours, can be lengthy and stressful.

For those considering **moving to Saint Stephen**, it is crucial to carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements. Individuals who are unable to drive or who have mobility limitations should consider the challenges they might face in accessing medical care. Researching available medical transport services and exploring potential community resources is essential.

The local community could benefit from initiatives to improve **healthcare access**. This includes advocating for increased public **transportation** options, partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized services, and expanding the availability of NEMT providers. Investing in community health programs and promoting preventative care can also help mitigate the impact of **transportation** barriers.

In conclusion, while Saint Stephen offers a welcoming community, the **transportation** landscape presents challenges to **healthcare access**. Residents should carefully consider these factors when evaluating their overall health and well-being. Understanding the limitations and proactively planning for medical needs is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle in this area. Future developments aimed at improving **transportation** options and increasing access to healthcare services would undoubtedly boost the overall health score for the residents of 29479.