36006, Billingsley, Alabama Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36006, Billingsley, Alabama is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.81 percent of residents in 36006 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Vincent's Chilton with a distance of 16.05 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36006

Nestled in the heart of Autauga County, Alabama, the rural ZIP code 36006, encompassing the small community of Billingsley, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," delves into the critical aspect of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. For those considering **moving to Billingsley**, understanding these factors is paramount for ensuring quality of life and care.

The Alzheimer's Score considers several key elements: drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport options. Each factor is assessed to provide a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers in accessing vital healthcare.

The primary healthcare hub for Billingsley residents is undoubtedly the city of Prattville, located approximately 15 miles north. The journey typically involves navigating along County Road 14, a relatively well-maintained two-lane road. Drive times to Prattville's Baptist Medical Center South, a major hospital offering comprehensive services, average around 25-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, the absence of sidewalks and limited streetlights on County Road 14 pose challenges, particularly for individuals with cognitive impairments who might be walking.

Further afield, Montgomery, the state capital, offers a wider array of specialized medical facilities. Reaching Montgomery requires a longer commute, typically involving travel along Interstate 65 (I-65) North. The drive to major hospitals like Jackson Hospital or the University of Alabama Hospital takes approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. I-65, while a major highway, can experience heavy congestion, especially during peak hours and on weekends, potentially exacerbating the stress and anxiety for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Public **transportation** options in 36006 are severely limited. The Autauga County Area Transportation System (ACATS) provides demand-response services, requiring advance booking. While ACATS offers door-to-door service, the availability and scheduling can be restrictive, particularly for urgent medical appointments. Furthermore, the system's operational hours and the potential for extended travel times due to multiple pickups and drop-offs can pose significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's, who often require timely and predictable transportation. ACATS vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, but the need for advance booking and limited service areas remain significant barriers.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Prattville and Montgomery areas, but their presence in Billingsley itself is sporadic. Securing a ride can be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliance on smartphone apps and the potential for fluctuating fares also present challenges for individuals with cognitive impairments and those who may not have access to these technologies.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are a crucial consideration. Several companies operate in the area, including, but not limited to, AMR (American Medical Response), and MedTrans. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency situations.

For individuals considering **moving to Billingsley**, the availability and accessibility of healthcare facilities are vital. The reliance on personal vehicles for most medical appointments is a significant factor. The absence of robust public transit and the sporadic presence of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration of the challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

The Alzheimer's Score for 36006 reflects the difficulties associated with accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the uncertainties of ride-sharing services highlight the need for proactive planning and support.

The potential for social isolation is another critical concern. The lack of readily available **transportation** options can limit opportunities for social interaction and engagement, which are vital for maintaining cognitive function and overall well-being. Caregivers also face significant challenges, as they often bear the responsibility for providing **transportation** and accompanying their loved ones to medical appointments.

The Alzheimer's Score also considers the availability of support services, such as home healthcare, respite care, and memory care facilities. While these services may be available in the Prattville and Montgomery areas, accessing them from Billingsley can be challenging due to **transportation** limitations. The distance and **transportation** challenges can create additional stress and burden for caregivers.

To improve the Alzheimer's Score for 36006, several key initiatives are needed. Enhancing the availability and reliability of public **transportation** is paramount. This could involve expanding the ACATS service area, increasing the frequency of routes, and providing more flexible scheduling options. Collaboration between local government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations could facilitate the development of innovative **transportation** solutions.

Furthermore, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services in Billingsley could improve **healthcare access**. Offering incentives to ride-sharing companies to serve the area or providing subsidies for residents could make this option more accessible and affordable.

Increasing awareness of medical **transportation** services and providing financial assistance to those in need is also crucial. Educating residents about the available options and helping them navigate the complexities of accessing these services can significantly improve their ability to reach healthcare appointments.

The Alzheimer's Score for 36006 is a dynamic assessment, influenced by the evolving landscape of healthcare and **transportation**. The score reflects the challenges and opportunities facing individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. By addressing the **transportation** barriers, improving **healthcare access**, and supporting caregivers, the community can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for those affected by this devastating disease. For anyone **moving to Billingsley**, the challenges of **transportation** must be considered.