29936, Ridgeland, South Carolina Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 29936, Ridgeland, South Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.15 percent of residents in 29936 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaufort County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 16.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Ridgeland, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29936)

Understanding healthcare access is paramount when considering a move, particularly to a rural area like Ridgeland, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29936). This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" evaluating the ease and efficiency of transportation to healthcare facilities, offering a comprehensive perspective for potential residents. Factors considered include drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation services. This analysis aims to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access, empowering informed decisions about moving to Ridgeland.

The primary challenge in Ridgeland, and indeed much of Jasper County, is its rurality. This geographic characteristic significantly impacts transportation options and subsequently influences healthcare access. The availability of public transit is limited, and reliance on personal vehicles is the norm. Drive times, therefore, become a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The town of Ridgeland is centrally located, with the main thoroughfares being Interstate 95 (I-95) and US Highway 17. The proximity to I-95 is a double-edged sword. While it offers relatively quick access to larger cities with advanced medical facilities, it also increases the potential distance to primary care physicians and urgent care centers within Ridgeland itself.

A drive to the closest hospital, **Coastal Carolina Hospital** in Hardeeville, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The route primarily involves using US-17 and then a short stretch of US-17A. This drive time is generally manageable, but it underscores the reliance on personal vehicles.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Savannah, Georgia. The drive to **Memorial Health University Medical Center** in Savannah, a major regional hospital, is approximately 45-60 minutes via I-95 North. This journey, while longer, provides access to a wider range of medical specialists and advanced treatments.

Another option is **Beaufort Memorial Hospital** in Beaufort, South Carolina. The drive time is approximately 1 hour via US-17 South. This offers another option for specialized care, but the longer commute time needs to be considered.

The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also impact drive times. Routine maintenance and potential delays due to accidents are also factors to consider. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful consideration of these factors.

**Public Transit**

Public transportation options in Ridgeland are severely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within the town. The **Coastal Regional Transportation Authority (CRTA)**, which provides public transit in Beaufort and Jasper counties, does not have a regular route that serves Ridgeland. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of regular public transit necessitates alternative transportation strategies. This includes relying on family, friends, or community support networks. The lack of accessible public transit is a significant disadvantage for those considering moving to Ridgeland.

**ADA Accessibility**

The lack of public transit also impacts accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Without accessible public transportation options, individuals requiring wheelchairs or other mobility aids face significant challenges in accessing healthcare facilities. This underscores the importance of considering the availability of specialized transportation services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ridgeland area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for those needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies provide these services in the area, including **CareRide** and **FirstLight Home Care**. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility needs and providing support throughout the journey. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Ridgeland, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29936) is moderate. While the proximity to I-95 offers relatively quick access to hospitals in Hardeeville and Savannah, the limitations in public transit and the potential reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and the cost of medical transportation services can be a significant barrier.

Individuals considering moving to Ridgeland should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and their ability to access healthcare facilities. This includes assessing their access to a personal vehicle, their financial resources for ride-sharing or medical transportation, and the availability of support networks.

The lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles are significant considerations. The "Overall Health Score" is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The need for residents to drive to their healthcare needs is a key consideration.

The decision to move to Ridgeland should be made with a clear understanding of these transportation limitations. While the area offers a rural lifestyle and a close-knit community, healthcare access requires careful planning and consideration. Prospective residents should factor in drive times, potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation, and the availability of support networks when assessing the suitability of Ridgeland for their healthcare needs. The absence of a reliable public transit system is the most significant negative factor influencing the "Overall Health Score."