35474, Moundville, Alabama Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 35474, Moundville, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.51 percent of residents in 35474 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greene County Hospital with a distance of 18.78 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Moundville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35474)

The decision to relocate, particularly when considering the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, necessitates a meticulous examination of healthcare access. This analysis, tailored for the Moundville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35474) area, provides an "Alzheimer's Score" by evaluating transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for maintaining quality of life and ensuring timely medical attention. This score considers drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. Our goal is to paint a clear picture for those considering moving to Moundville, allowing for informed decisions regarding healthcare accessibility.

Moundville, nestled in rural Alabama, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The area's charm and slower pace of life are attractive, but the distance to specialized medical care demands careful consideration. The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a numerical grade but a qualitative assessment, providing a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its implications for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

The primary mode of transportation in Moundville is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The vast majority of healthcare destinations require a car journey. The closest significant medical center is DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, approximately 25 miles away. The drive primarily involves navigating **Highway 69** north, a two-lane road that can experience moderate traffic, especially during peak hours. The journey typically takes around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Another option is to travel east on **Highway 14**, which leads to Selma, Alabama, where there are smaller medical facilities. However, this drive is longer, approximately 50 miles, and takes over an hour, making it less desirable for urgent medical needs. Local roads, such as **County Road 20** and **County Road 21**, provide alternative routes, but these are often less maintained and can be challenging during inclement weather.

For those with Alzheimer's, the potential for disorientation or difficulty navigating unfamiliar routes is a significant concern. The long drive times and the need to manage traffic, especially on **Highway 69**, can exacerbate these challenges. Therefore, caregivers must be prepared for extended travel times and the potential need for assistance during the journey.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Moundville and the surrounding areas are limited. The Tuscaloosa Area Regional Transportation (TART) system does not directly serve Moundville. The lack of public transit presents a significant hurdle for individuals who cannot drive or who are no longer safe to drive.

The absence of readily available public transportation necessitates reliance on other modes of transport, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport, which can increase costs and complexity. The lack of public transit is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's in Moundville.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Tuscaloosa, but their availability in Moundville is less consistent. The rural location may result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares. This unpredictability can be a significant concern for scheduled appointments or urgent medical needs.

Specialized medical transport services are available in the area, but their cost and availability vary. These services, often provided by companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** or local ambulance services, offer transportation for individuals with medical needs. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or personal transportation and may require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The availability of specialized healthcare services in Tuscaloosa is a positive factor. DCH Regional Medical Center offers a range of medical specialties, including neurology and geriatrics, which are crucial for managing Alzheimer's disease. However, the distance to Tuscaloosa and the limited transportation options necessitate careful planning and coordination.

Caregivers must be prepared to manage the logistics of transportation, including scheduling appointments, arranging transportation, and ensuring the individual with Alzheimer's is comfortable and safe during the journey. The lack of readily available public transportation and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services require a proactive approach to healthcare access.

**Moving to Moundville: An Alzheimer's Perspective:**

For individuals with Alzheimer's and their families considering moving to Moundville, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. The rural setting offers a peaceful environment, but the limited healthcare access necessitates careful planning.

Caregivers must be prepared to drive to healthcare appointments, utilize ride-sharing services when available, or rely on specialized medical transport. The lack of public transportation and the distance to medical facilities require a commitment to proactive healthcare management.

The decision to move to Moundville should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the individual's needs and the available resources. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the challenges of healthcare access must be carefully considered. The "Alzheimer's Score" for Moundville highlights the importance of transportation planning, emphasizing the need for caregivers to be prepared for the logistical demands of healthcare access in this rural environment.