36375, Slocomb, Alabama Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36375, Slocomb, Alabama is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.45 percent of residents in 36375 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Flowers Hospital with a distance of 10.94 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Slocomb, Alabama (ZIP Code 36375)

The golden years often bring a heightened awareness of the importance of accessible healthcare. For individuals considering a move to Slocomb, Alabama (ZIP Code 36375), particularly those navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease or supporting loved ones with the condition, understanding the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" analyzes the current landscape of **healthcare access** within and around Slocomb, offering a nuanced perspective on the practical challenges and potential solutions.

The primary concern for residents of Slocomb is the availability of specialized care. While Slocomb itself is a small town, the nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in Dothan, approximately 20 miles to the south. This distance necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or specialized medical **transportation** for appointments and treatments.

Driving to Dothan from Slocomb involves navigating several key routes. The most direct route is via Alabama State Route 103 South, a two-lane highway that connects Slocomb with Dothan. This drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. However, the route can be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments, requiring constant attention to lane discipline and potential distractions.

Another option is to take County Road 49 South, which eventually merges with U.S. Highway 84 East. This route, while slightly longer, offers a wider road and potentially less traffic, particularly during peak hours. U.S. Highway 84 is a major thoroughfare that provides access to various medical facilities in Dothan. The drive time on this route is usually around 45 minutes.

For those without personal vehicles or unable to drive, public **transportation** options are limited. The Wiregrass Transit Authority (WTA) provides public bus service in the Dothan area, but service to Slocomb is not available. This lack of public **transportation** presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a car.

The WTA buses in Dothan offer some ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the absence of service to Slocomb renders these features irrelevant for residents of the town. The reliance on alternative **transportation** methods is therefore crucial.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Dothan area. However, their availability in Slocomb may be less consistent, and wait times could be longer. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Individuals with Alzheimer's or other cognitive impairments may also require assistance from the driver, which can be challenging to arrange and potentially costly.

Specialized medical **transportation** services are another option. Several companies in the Dothan area provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals with Alzheimer's, providing a safe and comfortable way to travel to and from medical appointments. However, these services often come with a higher price tag than standard ride-sharing or personal vehicles.

One notable medical **transportation** provider in the area is Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC), which offers patient **transportation** services. This service can be especially helpful for those who are admitted to the hospital and require assistance getting home.

The Alzheimer's Score for Slocomb, Alabama, is therefore influenced by several factors. The limited public **transportation** options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The availability of specialized medical **transportation** and the proximity to medical facilities in Dothan offer some mitigating factors.

For those considering **moving to Slocomb**, a thorough assessment of **transportation** needs is essential. Individuals with Alzheimer's or other cognitive impairments may require assistance with driving, navigating routes, and managing appointments. Careful consideration should be given to the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, as well as the availability of specialized medical **transportation**.

The physical layout of medical facilities in Dothan also plays a role in the Alzheimer's Score. The ease of navigating hospital corridors, the availability of accessible parking, and the presence of dementia-friendly environments can significantly impact the patient experience. Families should research the specific features of the medical facilities they plan to use, including the availability of specialized programs for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Furthermore, the social support network in Slocomb is a critical factor. Family members, friends, and community organizations can provide invaluable assistance with **transportation** to medical appointments, medication management, and other essential tasks. The availability of caregiver support groups and respite care services can also help alleviate the burden on family caregivers.

In conclusion, while Slocomb offers a peaceful and close-knit community, its **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's presents certain challenges. The lack of public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing, and the potential cost of specialized medical **transportation** all contribute to a lower Alzheimer's Score. However, the proximity to medical facilities in Dothan, the availability of specialized medical **transportation**, and the potential for strong community support offer some mitigating factors. Thorough planning, careful consideration of **transportation** options, and a strong support network are crucial for ensuring access to quality healthcare for individuals with Alzheimer's in Slocomb, Alabama.