27048, Stoneville, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27048, Stoneville, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.96 percent of residents in 27048 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unc Rockingham with a distance of 9.25 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stoneville, NC (ZIP Code 27048)

Considering a move to the tranquil embrace of Stoneville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27048)? Perhaps you’re contemplating a relocation for a loved one, or even yourself, grappling with the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This assessment provides a detailed overview of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options, a critical component in maintaining quality of life for individuals facing cognitive decline. This analysis, we’ll call it the "Alzheimer's Score," will help you understand the realities of navigating healthcare in this rural setting.

Stoneville, nestled in Rockingham County, offers a peaceful, slower pace of life. However, its rural character presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those with Alzheimer's. The availability of specialized medical care, coupled with reliable transportation options, becomes paramount. The Alzheimer's Score considers these factors, providing a comprehensive picture to inform your decision-making.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical facilities. In Stoneville, this primarily translates to driving. The primary arteries for travel are US-220 and NC-704. These roads are generally well-maintained, but their rural nature means potential for delays due to weather or accidents. The absence of significant traffic congestion, however, is a definite advantage.

Driving times to key healthcare providers are crucial. The closest hospital, UNC Rockingham Health Care in Eden, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via US-220. This relatively short distance is a significant positive in our Alzheimer's Score. Specialized geriatric care, including neurology and memory care, are available at this facility.

Specialist appointments may necessitate travel further afield. For more specialized neurological care, including comprehensive Alzheimer's diagnosis and treatment, you might consider the Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem. This journey, primarily via US-220 and US-52, can take approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer travel time warrants careful consideration, especially for individuals with advanced stages of Alzheimer's.

Public transportation options in Stoneville are limited. Rockingham County does offer a public transit service, but it’s geared towards general needs, not specialized medical transportation. The routes are limited, and scheduling requires advance notice. Moreover, the service may not have specific accommodations for individuals with mobility challenges or cognitive impairments, such as ADA-compliant features. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Stoneville, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Their presence offers a potential solution, but their dependability cannot be guaranteed, which is a concern when consistent healthcare appointments are critical. The Alzheimer's Score reflects this uncertainty.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, exist, but availability and pricing must be carefully researched. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and appointment scheduling. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking. Researching local providers like First Transit or Care Ride is essential.

The impact of these transportation limitations on healthcare access is significant. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience difficulties with driving, and relying on family or friends for transportation can be burdensome. The lack of readily available public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can create significant barriers to attending medical appointments, accessing therapies, and receiving necessary support. This impacts the Alzheimer's Score negatively.

Consider the importance of caregiver support. Living in Stoneville, you may need to rely on family or friends to assist with transportation. This can be a rewarding experience, but it also demands significant time and commitment from the caregiver. The Alzheimer's Score considers this aspect, recognizing the importance of caregiver well-being.

The Alzheimer's Score also takes into account the availability of local resources. Rockingham County offers various programs and services for seniors, including support groups, respite care, and in-home assistance. These resources can help alleviate the burden on caregivers and provide valuable support for individuals with Alzheimer's. Investigating these local resources is a crucial step in planning for healthcare needs.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for Stoneville, NC (ZIP Code 27048) presents a mixed picture. The proximity to UNC Rockingham Health Care is a positive, as is the generally manageable traffic. However, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the need to rely on driving or medical transport companies, present significant challenges.

When considering a move to Stoneville, carefully assess the transportation needs of the individual with Alzheimer's. Explore all available options, including family support, medical transportation services, and local resources. The Alzheimer's Score highlights the importance of proactive planning to ensure access to healthcare and maintain quality of life in this peaceful, but transportation-challenged, rural setting. Carefully weighing these factors will ensure that the move is not only a change of scenery, but a positive step forward in the journey with Alzheimer's.