36009, Brantley, Alabama Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36009, Brantley, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.71 percent of residents in 36009 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crenshaw Community Hospital with a distance of 7.87 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 36009

Considering a move to Brantley, Alabama (ZIP Code 36009)? This assessment provides a "Alzheimer's Score," a qualitative gauge of the ease and practicality of accessing healthcare for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive impairments. It focuses on transportation options, a critical factor influencing healthcare access, especially for those with diminished driving abilities or needing frequent medical appointments. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport within and around the area.

The primary consideration for residents of 36009 is the relative isolation of Brantley. It's a small town, and healthcare facilities are not directly within its borders. The nearest significant healthcare providers, including hospitals and specialized clinics, are located in larger towns and cities, requiring travel. This distance significantly impacts the "Alzheimer's Score," as it increases the complexity and stress associated with healthcare appointments.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation in this rural setting. The primary route to larger towns is via **US Highway 84**, which runs east-west, connecting Brantley to larger towns like Andalusia to the west and Enterprise to the east. Travel times vary depending on traffic and the specific destination. Andalusia, with its hospital, **Crenshaw Community Hospital**, is approximately a 30-minute drive. Enterprise, offering more extensive medical services, is about a 45-minute drive. For specialized care, residents may need to travel further to larger cities like Dothan (approximately an hour) or Montgomery (around two hours).

The condition of **US Highway 84** is generally good, but the drive itself can be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments. The rural nature of the road means limited services along the way, and the potential for disorientation or anxiety during the drive can be a significant concern. The need for frequent stops, due to the effects of Alzheimer's, can further complicate the journey.

Alternative routes involve navigating smaller county roads, such as **County Road 2**, **County Road 4**, and **County Road 6**. These roads are less direct and may be poorly maintained, adding to the difficulty of travel. Navigating these roads requires a high degree of cognitive function, making them unsuitable for individuals with advanced Alzheimer's.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in this area. There is no established public bus system within Brantley or the surrounding Crenshaw County. The absence of public transit is a significant drawback, drastically reducing the "Alzheimer's Score." This lack of options makes it difficult for those who cannot drive or are unable to arrange private transportation to attend medical appointments.

While some counties offer limited rural transit services, these are often demand-response systems, meaning they require advance booking and may have limited operating hours and availability. These services are not specifically designed for individuals with cognitive impairments, and their accessibility features, such as ADA compliance, should be carefully verified.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in larger cities but are not consistently present in Brantley or the immediate surrounding areas. Availability is sporadic, and the reliability of these services for scheduled medical appointments is questionable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more viable option. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, but their availability and coverage area should be thoroughly investigated. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility, and can accommodate medical equipment. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and it's essential to verify insurance coverage and availability well in advance of any appointment.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for 36009 is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing create significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The need to travel to distant healthcare facilities adds to the complexity of accessing care.

When considering a move to Brantley, it's crucial to carefully evaluate the healthcare access. Assess the availability of family or caregivers to provide transportation. Investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services. Determine if the local healthcare providers offer telehealth options, reducing the need for frequent travel.

For individuals with Alzheimer's or other cognitive impairments, the "Alzheimer's Score" is a reflection of the practical challenges of accessing healthcare. The ease of transportation is paramount. The ability to get to appointments, receive specialized care, and maintain a good quality of life depends on a well-thought-out plan.

The move to Brantley requires careful consideration of the transportation challenges. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limited healthcare access can be a significant burden. Careful planning and preparation are essential to ensure that healthcare needs can be met effectively and safely. The availability of reliable transportation is key to successfully navigating the healthcare landscape in 36009.