29568, Longs, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29568, Longs, South Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.18 percent of residents in 29568 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grand Strand Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Longs, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29568)

The quaint town of Longs, South Carolina, nestled in the heart of Horry County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and burgeoning suburban development. While offering a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle, its relative remoteness significantly impacts residents' **healthcare access**, particularly when considering the **transportation** infrastructure. This analysis provides an overall health score for the community, focusing on the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing healthcare services within and around ZIP Code 29568. We'll explore the complexities of commuting to appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative **transportation** solutions. For those **moving to Longs**, understanding these nuances is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being.

The overall health score for Longs, SC, regarding healthcare access is moderately impacted. While the area offers essential services, the reliance on personal vehicles and limited public **transportation** options pose considerable hurdles, especially for individuals with mobility limitations, those without access to a car, or those facing financial constraints.

### Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Artery

The primary mode of **transportation** for residents of Longs is the personal vehicle. The town is primarily served by US-17, a major coastal highway connecting various communities. Depending on the specific location within 29568, residents can expect varying drive times to reach healthcare facilities. The nearest urgent care facilities and primary care physician offices are generally located in North Myrtle Beach, approximately a 15-25 minute drive via US-17 South.

For more specialized care, residents often need to travel further. Conway, the county seat, is roughly a 30-45 minute drive via SC-9 and US-701. This journey provides access to Conway Medical Center, a comprehensive hospital offering a wide range of services. Myrtle Beach, a popular tourist destination, is also a common destination for healthcare, accessible within a 30-45 minute drive via US-17. This offers access to Grand Strand Medical Center and other specialized medical practices.

The drive times are susceptible to traffic congestion, particularly during peak tourist seasons and rush hour. Residents must factor in these delays when planning appointments, potentially adding significant stress and inconvenience. Furthermore, the condition of the roads, including potential potholes and flooding during inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety.

### Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline

Public **transportation** options in Longs and the surrounding areas are extremely limited, presenting a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for many residents. The Coast RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) operates bus routes in Horry County, but service to Longs is infrequent and may not directly serve many healthcare facilities.

The primary route serving Longs is likely Route 15, which runs along US-17. However, this route primarily connects Longs to North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach, with limited service frequency. The schedule may not align with appointment times, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving due to multiple stops. Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, are available on Coast RTA buses, but the limited service frequency and route coverage can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

The lack of comprehensive public **transportation** necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative solutions, which may not be readily available to all residents. This limitation is a significant factor in the overall health score.

### Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Longs area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public **transportation**. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals needing assistance getting to medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline. Several companies operate in the area, including FirstMed Transportation, MedRide, and Access Medical Transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility devices and medical equipment. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, potentially limiting their accessibility for some residents.

### Considerations for Moving to Longs

For those considering **moving to Longs**, understanding the **transportation** landscape is paramount. Before relocating, prospective residents should assess their healthcare needs and consider the accessibility of medical facilities. Those reliant on public **transportation** or with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and potential challenges.

Proximity to healthcare facilities, access to reliable **transportation**, and the availability of support networks are crucial factors in maintaining good health. Researching the availability of medical specialists, pharmacies, and other essential services in the area is also recommended.

### The Overall Health Score: A Summary

The overall health score for Longs, SC, regarding healthcare access is moderately impacted. The primary challenge is the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public **transportation**. While ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer alternative solutions, they may not be accessible or affordable for all residents.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, but traffic congestion and road conditions can impact travel times. The lack of comprehensive public transit and the potential cost of alternative **transportation** options create significant barriers for some residents.

For those **moving to Longs**, careful planning and consideration of their healthcare needs are essential. Exploring the available **transportation** options, understanding the potential challenges, and planning for contingencies are crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being. The community would greatly benefit from expanded public transit options, improved road infrastructure, and increased awareness of available medical **transportation** services to enhance the overall health score and improve healthcare access for all residents.