36524, Coffeeville, Alabama Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36524, Coffeeville, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.59 percent of residents in 36524 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jackson Medical Center with a distance of 19.13 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 36524

Understanding the challenges of healthcare access is crucial, especially for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 36524 (Coffeeville, Alabama), provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment of transportation and healthcare availability, offering insights for those considering a move or already residing in the area. The score reflects the ease and practicality of accessing necessary medical services, considering the specific needs of individuals with cognitive impairments.

The primary factor influencing the Alzheimer's Score is the distance and accessibility of healthcare facilities. In 36524, residents primarily rely on private vehicles for transportation. The nearest hospitals and specialized care centers are located in neighboring towns, necessitating travel along specific roadways. The most direct route to Jackson Medical Center in Jackson, Alabama, involves a drive of approximately 25 miles, typically taking around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey primarily utilizes **Highway 43 South**, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours.

The drive to Mobile, Alabama, offering a wider range of specialized medical services, is significantly longer. This commute necessitates navigating **Highway 43 South** to **Highway 98 East**, a journey of about 80 miles, potentially taking upwards of 1 hour and 45 minutes, or even longer, depending on traffic. This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety and confusion during prolonged periods of transit.

Public transportation options in 36524 are extremely limited. There are no local bus services operating within the ZIP code itself. The nearest public transit options are located in larger cities like Mobile, requiring a significant drive to access. These options, primarily consisting of the Mobile Transit Authority (MTA) buses, offer limited routes and schedules, making them impractical for regular healthcare appointments, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's. Furthermore, accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and audio-visual announcements, may not be consistently available on all routes, adding another layer of complexity. The lack of readily available public transit significantly lowers the Alzheimer's Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and affordability in 36524 are questionable. While these services can provide a convenient alternative to driving, their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing, including potential driver cancellations and delays, further complicates its suitability for individuals with Alzheimer's, who require consistent and reliable transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel to assist with patient care. However, the cost of NEMT can be substantial, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially longer wait times. The availability of specialized medical transportation services is a positive factor, but the associated costs and potential limitations must be carefully considered.

Healthcare access also encompasses the availability of specialized medical facilities and services. In Coffeeville itself, the healthcare options are limited. The nearest primary care physicians, dentists, and pharmacies are located within a short driving distance. However, access to specialists, such as neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists, requires travel to larger cities like Mobile or Jackson. The distance and travel time to these specialized services contribute to the overall challenges of healthcare access.

The availability of support services for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers is another crucial aspect of the Alzheimer's Score. In 36524, resources are limited. Support groups, memory care facilities, and respite care programs may require travel to neighboring communities. This lack of local support services can place a significant burden on caregivers, increasing the challenges of managing the disease.

The Alzheimer's Score for 36524 is significantly impacted by the limited transportation options and the distances to specialized healthcare facilities. The reliance on private vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access. While medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution, the associated costs and potential limitations must be considered. The limited availability of local support services further exacerbates the challenges.

For individuals and families considering moving to Coffeeville or already residing in the area, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. The challenges of navigating long distances, limited public transit, and the potential costs of specialized transportation services must be carefully weighed against the benefits of living in a rural community. Planning ahead, exploring all available options, and establishing a reliable transportation strategy are essential for ensuring access to necessary medical care and support services.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for 36524 reflects the significant challenges associated with healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. The limited transportation options, long distances to specialized medical facilities, and the lack of local support services create a complex landscape. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the practical realities of healthcare access must be carefully considered. For those contemplating a move, the availability of reliable transportation, the proximity to specialized medical care, and the availability of support services should be prioritized. Careful planning and a proactive approach are essential for ensuring the well-being of individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease in this rural setting. The journey to healthcare requires careful navigation, considering the specific needs of individuals with cognitive impairments.