29525, Clio, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29525, Clio, South Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.98 percent of residents in 29525 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mcleod Medical Center - Dillon with a distance of 10.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clio, SC (ZIP Code 29525)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In the quaint town of Clio, South Carolina, nestled within the 29525 ZIP code, this access is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, delving into the realities of commuting to healthcare, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Clio is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town itself is relatively small, and most healthcare facilities are located in nearby towns like Bennettsville and Laurinburg, North Carolina. These destinations necessitate travel along specific roadways.

The most direct route to Bennettsville, home to McLeod Health Cheraw and other medical services, involves navigating **US-15/US-401**. This journey, typically covering approximately 8 miles, can take anywhere from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day. Residents should be aware of potential delays, especially during peak commuting hours.

Laurinburg, North Carolina, offers another healthcare option, including Scotland Health Care System. Reaching this destination requires traveling on **US-15/US-401** North, then transitioning to **US-74**. The drive, roughly 18 miles, can take between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute presents a greater challenge for those with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

Public transportation options in Clio are limited. The primary provider is the Pee Dee Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PDRTA). While PDRTA provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance, it doesn't offer fixed routes within Clio or direct connections to major healthcare facilities. PDRTA operates with some ADA accessibility, including lift-equipped vehicles, but the scheduling process and potential wait times can be a significant barrier.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent. Availability depends on driver density, which can fluctuate significantly. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments in Clio is risky, especially during off-peak hours or for early morning appointments. The cost can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare visits.

Medical transport services are crucial for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring specialized care. Several companies provide this service in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT). These services require pre-booking and are often associated with higher costs. The availability of specific medical transport providers can vary, and it's essential to confirm coverage and eligibility with insurance providers.

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Clio, SC, is moderately low. The reliance on personal vehicles presents a significant challenge for those without access to a car. Limited public transit, inconsistent ride-sharing, and the need for pre-booked medical transport further compound the difficulties.

The challenges are particularly acute for the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. These populations often face the greatest barriers to healthcare access. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately impacting health outcomes.

For those considering moving to Clio, the availability of healthcare access should be a key consideration. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and evaluate the practicality of relying on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport.

Improving healthcare access in Clio requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transit options, including fixed routes and improved scheduling, would significantly benefit the community. Collaborations between healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community organizations could facilitate the development of innovative transportation solutions. Subsidized ride-sharing programs or partnerships with medical transport providers could help reduce the financial burden on vulnerable populations.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of available resources, such as PDRTA services and medical transport options, is crucial. Providing educational materials and outreach programs can empower residents to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

The "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic measure, and continuous monitoring is essential. Regular assessments of transportation infrastructure, service availability, and community needs are vital to ensure that healthcare access remains a priority in Clio.

The future of healthcare access in Clio hinges on the community's ability to address the transportation challenges. By fostering collaboration, investing in infrastructure, and prioritizing the needs of vulnerable populations, Clio can improve its "Overall Health Score" and create a healthier future for all its residents. The journey to better healthcare starts with the journey to the doctor's office, and in Clio, that journey needs to be made easier, more accessible, and more reliable for everyone. The health of the community depends on it.