29518, Cades, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29518, Cades, South Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.35 percent of residents in 29518 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Williamsburg Regional Hospital with a distance of 8.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29518 (Cades, South Carolina)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 29518, focusing on the critical element of transportation to healthcare facilities. Understanding the challenges and opportunities in this area is vital for residents and those considering moving to Cades, South Carolina. We will explore drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

ZIP Code 29518, encompassing the rural community of Cades, presents unique transportation challenges. The area is characterized by its agricultural landscape and relatively low population density. This geographical reality significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare services is a fundamental determinant of overall health and well-being.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation in Cades is the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on the road network to access healthcare facilities located outside the immediate community. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating state highways and county roads.

The most frequented route to Florence, South Carolina, the nearest city with comprehensive healthcare services, involves taking **Highway 378** east, then connecting to **Highway 52** or **Highway 76**. This drive, depending on traffic and destination within Florence, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes. The distance is approximately 30 miles.

Alternatively, accessing healthcare in Lake City, a smaller town with some medical facilities, involves taking **Highway 378** west. This drive is shorter, typically around 15-20 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 10 miles. However, the range of healthcare services available in Lake City is more limited than in Florence.

Another option is to drive south on **Highway 378** and then connect to **Highway 41** to reach the medical facilities in Kingstree. This route is about 25 miles and takes approximately 35 minutes.

The condition of these roads, particularly county roads, can vary, impacting travel times and safety, especially during inclement weather. Road maintenance and potential congestion during peak hours can also influence the overall commute time. Residents should factor in these variables when planning healthcare-related travel.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 29518 are limited. The availability of public transit is a crucial factor in healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints.

The **Pee Dee Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PDRTA)** provides some public transit services in the surrounding areas, but its routes and schedules may not directly serve Cades or offer frequent trips to healthcare facilities. PDRTA operates a demand-response system, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This can pose a challenge for urgent medical needs or spontaneous appointments. The lack of fixed-route buses or readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for many residents.

The PDRTA does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, which is a crucial feature for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and scheduling requirements can still create barriers to healthcare access. Residents needing public transit must plan well in advance and be prepared for potentially lengthy travel times. The lack of public transit is a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents, especially those who cannot drive.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the Florence area, but their presence and reliability in Cades are uncertain. The availability of ride-sharing services can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies or non-profit organizations, may be available to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including **Med-Trans Corporation** and **AMR (American Medical Response)**. These companies provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The availability of these services and the insurance coverage for them are crucial factors in determining their accessibility for residents.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 29518, concerning healthcare access, is negatively impacted by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for high transportation costs create significant challenges for many residents.

The relatively long drive times to healthcare facilities in Florence, Kingstree, and other towns, coupled with the potential for inclement weather and road conditions, can further exacerbate these challenges. The lack of readily available public transit options, particularly for those with disabilities or without personal vehicles, poses a significant barrier to healthcare access.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options may offer some relief, but their reliability, cost, and coverage limitations can hinder their effectiveness. The overall health score is negatively affected by the limited options for transportation.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 29518, several key strategies should be implemented.

* **Expand Public Transit:** Advocate for increased public transit services, including fixed-route buses or expanded demand-response options, with regular routes to healthcare facilities in Florence, Lake City, and Kingstree.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Invest in road maintenance and improvements, particularly on county roads, to ensure safe and efficient travel.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Partner with ride-sharing companies and medical transportation providers to increase their presence and affordability in the area.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available transportation options, including public transit schedules, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation resources.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Encourage the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments.

By addressing these transportation challenges, the community can significantly improve healthcare access for all residents, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community. This is a crucial aspect for anyone considering moving to Cades.