36569, Saint Stephens, Alabama Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36569, Saint Stephens, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.11 percent of residents in 36569 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington County Hospital with a distance of 10.63 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Stephens, Alabama (ZIP Code 36569)

Considering a move to the serene community of Saint Stephens, Alabama (ZIP Code 36569), and navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease, requires careful consideration. This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up aims to provide a detailed assessment of transportation options and their suitability for individuals with cognitive impairments, ensuring informed decisions about healthcare access. We’ll delve into the specifics of commute times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure.

Saint Stephens, nestled in Washington County, offers a tranquil setting, but its rural nature influences transportation options. The availability and accessibility of transportation are paramount for those with Alzheimer's, who may experience difficulties with memory, orientation, and judgment. The ability to attend medical appointments, access pharmacies, and receive necessary care hinges on reliable and convenient transportation.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For those who can drive or have family members providing transportation, understanding drive times to essential healthcare facilities is crucial. The primary route to Mobile, the nearest city with comprehensive medical services, involves traveling on **Highway 43** south. This is the most direct route, but traffic conditions can vary. Drive times to major hospitals like **University Hospital** and **Providence Hospital** in Mobile can range from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Another option, albeit slightly longer, involves taking **Highway 43** south to **Highway 98** east. This route offers a scenic drive but adds approximately 15-20 minutes to the journey. It is important to consider the patient's tolerance for longer travel times and the potential for increased anxiety.

Local clinics and smaller medical facilities closer to Saint Stephens, such as those in Chatom (approximately 20-30 minutes away via **Highway 43** north), offer a more immediate option for routine check-ups and basic medical needs. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to Mobile.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Careful Planning**

Public transportation in Saint Stephens is extremely limited. Washington County does not have a dedicated public transit system. Therefore, for individuals with Alzheimer's, relying on public transit is not a viable option. This lack of public **transportation** poses a significant challenge, highlighting the dependence on private vehicles or alternative services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Exploring Alternatives**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Mobile, but their presence in Saint Stephens is sporadic. Securing a ride may require advance planning and scheduling, which can be difficult for individuals with cognitive impairments. The reliability of these services is also a concern, as cancellations or delays can disrupt medical appointments and cause undue stress.

Medical **transportation** services, designed specifically for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **MedStar Transportation** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and care. However, costs can be a significant factor, and availability may require pre-booking.

**Healthcare Access: A Crucial Consideration**

The availability of specialized Alzheimer's care within Saint Stephens is limited. The closest facilities offering comprehensive memory care and specialized treatment are located in Mobile. This necessitates the need for reliable **transportation** to access these vital services.

**Moving to Saint Stephens: Making Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering **moving to Saint Stephens** with Alzheimer's, a thorough assessment of **healthcare access** is essential. The lack of robust public **transportation** and the reliance on private vehicles or specialized services necessitates careful planning. Factors to consider include the patient's ability to travel, the availability of family support, and the financial implications of utilizing ride-sharing or medical transport services.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Summary**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Saint Stephens (36569) reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by its rural setting. The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to Mobile (1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes) for specialized care.
* **Public Transit:** Non-existent public transit, severely limiting **transportation** options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Sporadic availability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability of medical transport services, but at a cost.
* **Healthcare Access:** Limited local specialized Alzheimer's care, requiring travel to Mobile.

In conclusion, while Saint Stephens offers a peaceful environment, the **transportation** landscape presents significant hurdles for individuals with Alzheimer's. Careful consideration of **healthcare access** and the availability of reliable **transportation** options is paramount for those considering **moving to Saint Stephens**. The need for proactive planning, family support, and potentially utilizing medical transport services are crucial to ensuring access to necessary care and maintaining the well-being of individuals living with Alzheimer's disease. The absence of robust public **transportation** necessitates a strong reliance on private vehicles or specialized services, which can significantly impact the quality of life and the ability to access vital medical care.