21545, Mount Savage, Maryland Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 21545, Mount Savage, Maryland is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.62 percent of residents in 21545 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Western Maryland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.35 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21545

The decision to relocate, especially when considering the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, demands meticulous planning. This analysis, tailored for ZIP code 21545 (Mount Savage, Maryland), assesses the accessibility of healthcare, a critical factor in managing this progressive condition. We'll delve into the transportation landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of transport, all vital elements in determining a practical "Alzheimer's Score" for this community.

The very fabric of Mount Savage, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, influences healthcare access. The town's remote location presents inherent challenges, particularly concerning specialized medical care, a crucial consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's. This write-up will serve as a guide for understanding the realities of accessing healthcare, aiding in informed decisions about relocating to or supporting a loved one in this area.

The primary route to healthcare facilities in the region involves driving. From Mount Savage, the most direct path to Cumberland, the nearest city with a concentration of medical services, typically involves taking Maryland Route 36 (MD-36) south. This winding road, known locally as the "Frostburg Road," can be a scenic but often slow journey, especially during inclement weather. Drive times to UPMC Western Maryland Hospital, the primary hospital in Cumberland, typically range from 15 to 20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions.

Another important route is Interstate 68 (I-68), a major east-west highway. While I-68 offers a faster route, it requires a slightly longer drive to access the highway from Mount Savage, adding a few minutes to the overall travel time. This highway connects to larger cities like Hagerstown and Morgantown, West Virginia, which offer more specialized medical care. However, these destinations represent significantly longer commutes, potentially exceeding an hour, making them less practical for routine appointments or emergencies.

Public transportation options in 21545 are limited. The Allegany CountyAllegany County Transit (ACT) system provides bus service within the county, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and service to Mount Savage is restricted. ACT Route 1, for instance, travels to Cumberland, but its limited schedule and potential for delays make it unreliable for time-sensitive healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations often associated with Alzheimer's, should be verified with ACT directly.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cumberland area, but their presence in Mount Savage is less consistent. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, risky, as it's not guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized medical transport providers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, which can be crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's. Researching and pre-arranging these services is essential.

The challenges of transportation in 21545 are amplified by the cognitive and physical impairments associated with Alzheimer's. Driving, even for short distances, can become unsafe. Navigating public transit requires a degree of cognitive function and physical ability that may be compromised. Therefore, the availability of reliable and accessible transportation becomes paramount.

Healthcare access extends beyond simply reaching a medical facility. It encompasses the availability of specialized care, including neurologists, geriatricians, and memory care specialists. UPMC Western Maryland Hospital in Cumberland offers a range of medical services, but specialized care may necessitate travel to larger cities.

The Alzheimer's Association provides valuable resources, including support groups and educational programs, that can be accessed both in person and online. These resources can be invaluable for caregivers and individuals with Alzheimer's, offering support, information, and a sense of community.

Moving to Mount Savage with Alzheimer's requires careful consideration of these factors. The relatively short drive to Cumberland for basic medical care is a positive aspect. However, the limited public transit options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the need for pre-arranged medical transport services present significant challenges.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for 21545, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Cumberland offers a degree of healthcare access, the transportation limitations and the potential need for specialized care elsewhere require careful planning and resourcefulness.

Caregivers and individuals considering relocating to Mount Savage must proactively assess their transportation needs and develop a comprehensive plan. This includes identifying reliable medical transport providers, familiarizing themselves with ACT routes and schedules (if applicable), and establishing a network of support.

The remote location of Mount Savage, while offering a sense of tranquility, necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare access. This analysis provides a foundation for understanding the transportation landscape and making informed decisions about healthcare planning. The "Alzheimer's Score" for 21545 is not a simple number but a complex evaluation of the available resources and the challenges they present.