27325, Robbins, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27325, Robbins, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.53 percent of residents in 27325 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Firsthealth Moore Regional Hospital with a distance of 18.42 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27325 (Robbins, NC)

Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease requires more than just medical expertise. It demands a supportive environment, and a crucial element of that is reliable and accessible transportation to healthcare. For individuals considering a move to Robbins, North Carolina, within ZIP code 27325, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount to assessing the quality of healthcare access. This 'Alzheimer's Score' write-up will explore the available transportation options, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for those living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer's.

Robbins, a small town nestled in Moore County, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. While the charm of a rural setting might be appealing, it often translates to limited options for getting to medical appointments. The ability to reach doctors, specialists, and therapists is a cornerstone of effective Alzheimer's care, and this score will dissect the realities of that journey.

**Driving the Distance: Roads and Highways**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The town is primarily served by US Highway 15-501, a major artery connecting Robbins to larger towns and cities. This highway offers a relatively direct route to healthcare facilities in Southern Pines (approximately 20 minutes) and Pinehurst (around 30 minutes). However, navigating US 15-501 can present challenges. Traffic, especially during peak hours, can be a concern, and the road’s design may not always be conducive to drivers with cognitive impairments.

Smaller roads like NC Highway 705 and various county roads provide access to local services and residences. These roads, while often less congested, can be winding and poorly lit, posing navigation difficulties for individuals with Alzheimer's. The condition of the roads, including potholes and lack of shoulders, can also be a safety concern. The distance to healthcare facilities, even on these smaller roads, can be significant, potentially impacting the patient's stamina and the caregiver's availability.

**Public Transit: A Limited Offering**

Public transportation options in Robbins are, unfortunately, limited. Moore County does offer a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are not designed for frequent medical appointments. The system primarily serves the county's larger towns, and the service to Robbins may be infrequent, requiring extensive planning and longer travel times. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, and this must be confirmed before relying on public transit.

The specific routes serving Robbins and their schedules should be carefully investigated. The lack of frequent service can be a major obstacle for those needing regular medical attention. The need to transfer between routes, and the potential for delays, can add to the stress and confusion for someone with Alzheimer's. The caregiver’s role in accompanying the patient on public transit is also critical, but the availability of assistance from the transit provider should also be considered.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Navigating the Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Moore County area, but their availability in Robbins itself can be inconsistent. The wait times for a ride can be long, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability makes ride-sharing a less-than-ideal solution for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and some local providers. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and luggage. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and it may not be covered by all insurance plans. Careful research into the available providers, their services, and their pricing is essential. The reliability of these services, including their on-time performance and the professionalism of their drivers, is also critical.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is a key factor. While Robbins itself may not have a full-service hospital, the proximity to hospitals and clinics in Southern Pines and Pinehurst is a significant advantage. FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst offers comprehensive medical services, including specialized care for Alzheimer's and dementia. Other local clinics and physician practices provide primary care and specialist services.

However, the availability of appointments, especially with specialists, can be a challenge. Long wait times for appointments can delay diagnosis and treatment. The need for frequent follow-up appointments further underscores the importance of reliable transportation. The caregiver's ability to schedule and manage appointments is a critical factor in ensuring access to healthcare.

**Moving to Robbins: Considerations for Alzheimer's Care**

For individuals considering a move to Robbins, careful consideration of the transportation and healthcare landscape is essential. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services should be weighed against the proximity to healthcare facilities in Southern Pines and Pinehurst. The availability of medical transportation services and their associated costs must be factored into the decision-making process.

The caregiver's role in managing transportation and healthcare appointments is paramount. The caregiver’s access to a reliable vehicle, or the financial resources to utilize medical transportation services, is critical. The availability of support services, such as adult day care and in-home care, can also help to ease the burden on the caregiver and improve the quality of life for the individual with Alzheimer's.

**Conclusion: Assessing the Score**

The 'Alzheimer's Score' for transportation and healthcare access in Robbins, NC (ZIP code 27325) is moderate. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in nearby towns is a positive factor, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, and the need for careful planning and coordination of transportation, highlight the importance of a strong support system.

For individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, moving to Robbins requires a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape. The ability to secure reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, medical transportation services, or the assistance of family and friends, is crucial for ensuring access to the healthcare needed to manage this challenging disease. A proactive approach, including thorough research, careful planning, and the development of a comprehensive transportation strategy, is essential for maximizing the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer's in Robbins.