29594, Tatum, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29594, Tatum, South Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

95.45 percent of residents in 29594 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mcleod Health Cheraw with a distance of 19.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29594

This analysis assesses the accessibility of healthcare within ZIP Code 29594, a region which, for the purposes of this report, we'll consider to encompass the area around Tatum, South Carolina. We'll evaluate various modes of transportation, providing a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Tatum or currently residing within the community.

The primary factor influencing healthcare accessibility is the time it takes to reach medical facilities. For residents of Tatum, the most direct routes to major healthcare providers typically involve navigating the local road network. Driving times are subject to traffic conditions, which can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and any unforeseen incidents.

Several factors contribute to the overall health score. The most prominent is the reliance on personal vehicles. The availability of public transportation, though present, is limited, and ride-sharing services, while available, may not be consistently reliable or affordable for all residents. Furthermore, the presence of medical transport services is crucial for those with mobility limitations.

For many, the journey to healthcare begins on local roads. Residents often utilize **Highway 9** and **Highway 501**, which provide crucial links to larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialized clinics are located. These highways are essential arteries for healthcare access, and their efficiency directly impacts the overall health score.

The drive to the nearest major hospital, McLeod Health Loris Hospital, located approximately 15 miles away, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the overall health score. However, accessing specialized care often requires travel to larger medical centers in Myrtle Beach or Conway, which can significantly increase travel times.

The absence of significant public transportation options presents a challenge. While the **Coast RTA** (Regional Transportation Authority) provides limited bus service within Horry County, its routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare needs in Tatum. Currently, there is no direct bus route connecting Tatum to major medical facilities. This lack of readily available public transportation negatively impacts the health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The Coast RTA does offer some routes that could be used in conjunction with other transportation methods. For example, a resident might take Route 16 to a transfer point and then connect to another route to reach a medical facility. However, this adds significant travel time and complexity, making it a less desirable option for many. Furthermore, the accessibility of these routes for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) needs to be carefully considered, as the availability of ramps, lifts, and other accommodations varies by route and bus.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability and affordability can fluctuate. During peak hours or in areas with lower demand, wait times can be longer, and fares can be higher. This variability makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for those requiring immediate or consistent access to healthcare.

Medical transport services play a crucial role for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. Several companies operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve scheduled transportation to and from medical appointments, utilizing specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

Companies like **First Choice Medical Transportation** and **A1 Medical Transport** offer NEMT services in the region. However, the availability of these services and the ability to secure timely transportation can be a challenge, particularly during peak demand periods. The overall health score is influenced by the reliability and accessibility of these vital services.

Considering all factors, the overall health score for commute to healthcare in ZIP Code 29594 is moderate. While the proximity to McLeod Health Loris Hospital provides a positive element, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services, along with the challenges of securing medical transport, create barriers to healthcare access for some residents.

The score is further impacted by the need to travel to larger cities for specialized care. The longer drive times to hospitals and clinics in Myrtle Beach or Conway, coupled with potential traffic congestion, can significantly increase the time and effort required to access necessary medical services. This factor highlights the importance of considering the distance to specialized healthcare providers when assessing the overall health score.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 29594 is also influenced by the socio-economic factors within the community. The affordability of transportation, including the cost of gas, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, can significantly impact healthcare access for lower-income residents. The availability of healthcare insurance and the ability to afford medical care are also crucial factors that influence the overall health score.

The health score is a dynamic measure. Improvements in public transportation, increased availability of ride-sharing services, or the expansion of medical transport options could significantly improve the score. Conversely, increased traffic congestion or the closure of local medical facilities could negatively impact the score.

For those considering moving to Tatum, this analysis underscores the importance of carefully evaluating healthcare access. While the area offers some advantages, such as proximity to a local hospital, the limitations in public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles should be considered. Prospective residents should also research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The Overall Health Score for ZIP Code 29594 reflects a complex interplay of factors. The ability to navigate the local road network, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport services all contribute to the overall picture. While the area offers some advantages, potential residents should be aware of the challenges and consider their individual healthcare needs when making a decision about moving to Tatum.