29827, Fairfax, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29827, Fairfax, South Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.48 percent of residents in 29827 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Allendale County Hospital with a distance of 0.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 29827

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 29827 necessitates a deep dive into the critical factor of healthcare access, specifically how easily individuals can reach medical facilities. This analysis considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their impact on timely access to care. The focus is on identifying potential barriers and opportunities for residents, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape for those residing in or considering moving to Fairfax, South Carolina.

The primary mode of transportation for residents of 29827 is likely the personal vehicle. The area is characterized by a rural landscape, and the reliance on cars is a significant factor when considering healthcare access. Drive times to medical facilities are critical. The nearest hospital, Aiken Regional Medical Centers, is approximately a 30-40 minute drive, primarily utilizing Highway 19 and occasionally Highway 78. This drive time can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours or in the event of an accident. Secondary roads like Williston Road and Elko Road provide alternative routes, but they are often less direct and may involve more stop-and-go traffic.

Public transportation options are limited in this area, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The absence of a robust public transit system is a significant factor affecting the overall health score. There is no readily available public bus service within the immediate vicinity of Fairfax, 29827, and the closest options may require significant travel to reach. The lack of public transportation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes, creating significant barriers to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. This makes ride-sharing a less viable option for many residents, further exacerbating the transportation challenges.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies like FirstMed and Care Transportation may operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services typically cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs that prevent them from driving. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, making them inaccessible to some.

The physical infrastructure of the roads and the availability of ADA-compliant transportation are also critical. The condition of the roads, including Highway 19 and Highway 78, impacts travel times and safety. Potholes, poor lighting, and lack of sidewalks can pose risks, especially for pedestrians and cyclists. The absence of ADA-compliant features on public transportation, should any exist, would further limit access for individuals with disabilities.

The overall health score for 29827 is significantly impacted by the transportation infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport, creates barriers to healthcare access. Residents may face difficulties in reaching medical appointments, accessing preventative care, and responding to medical emergencies. These transportation challenges can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting health outcomes.

The distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the affordability of these options are key determinants of the overall health score. The score would be higher if there were more public transportation options, including buses with ADA features. Increased availability of affordable ride-sharing services and readily available medical transport would also contribute to a higher score. Improving the condition of the roads and ensuring the availability of sidewalks and bike lanes would further enhance the accessibility of healthcare.

For individuals considering moving to Fairfax, South Carolina, and specifically ZIP Code 29827, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. They should assess their ability to drive, the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport, and the availability of support services.

The overall health score for 29827 is, therefore, moderate, reflecting the challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access. While medical facilities are within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of public transit, the potential limitations of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport create barriers for some residents. Improving transportation options, enhancing road infrastructure, and ensuring the availability of affordable and accessible healthcare services are essential for improving the overall health score and the well-being of the residents of Fairfax.