27524, Four Oaks, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27524, Four Oaks, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.73 percent of residents in 27524 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 26.14 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 27524

The journey to healthcare in ZIP Code 27524, encompassing the charming town of Four Oaks, North Carolina, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals grappling with Alzheimer's disease. This score, meticulously crafted to assess the ease of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, considers the specific needs of those with cognitive impairment, providing a nuanced understanding of the landscape. It's a critical factor for anyone considering **moving to Four Oaks**, or already residing there, and seeking to ensure quality care.

The primary hurdle for residents of 27524 lies in its rural character. While offering a peaceful atmosphere, the area is characterized by limited public **transportation** options and a reliance on personal vehicles. This is particularly problematic for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may lose the ability to drive safely.

The most direct route to specialized care often involves driving. From the heart of Four Oaks, a trip to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, such as those in Smithfield or Raleigh, typically requires navigating well-maintained roadways. A drive to Johnston Health in Smithfield, a vital resource, entails a journey of approximately 15 minutes via US-301 South. This route, relatively straightforward, is usually manageable for those capable of independent travel.

However, the drive to more specialized Alzheimer's care centers, often located in Raleigh, can be significantly longer. The most common route involves taking Interstate 95 North to Interstate 40 East, a journey of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This route can be daunting, especially for individuals with cognitive decline who might struggle with the complexities of highway driving. The sheer length of the trip, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, could prove overwhelming.

Alternatively, a trip to Raleigh can be accomplished by taking US-70 East, providing a slightly shorter, albeit often more congested, alternative. Regardless of the chosen route, the reliance on personal vehicles presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who can no longer drive.

Public **transportation** options in 27524 are limited. The Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) offers some routes, but they are not designed with the specific needs of individuals with Alzheimer's in mind. JCATS services primarily serve the needs of the general public, with fixed routes and schedules that may not align with the flexibility required for medical appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, is crucial. While JCATS strives to meet ADA standards, the frequency of service and the geographical reach of its routes may not be sufficient for frequent trips to medical appointments. This is a major factor to consider when assessing the practicality of public **transportation** for this population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more convenient alternative to public **transportation**, but their availability in 27524 can be inconsistent. While these services are generally accessible, their reliability depends on the availability of drivers, which can be scarce in rural areas. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, making it a less sustainable option for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with mobility limitations or cognitive impairments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like FirstLight Home Care and others may offer services, including door-to-door assistance and trained caregivers who can accompany patients to appointments. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public **transportation**, and their availability can vary.

The availability of specialized Alzheimer's care within 27524 itself is limited. While the area may have primary care physicians and general practitioners, specialized memory care units and neurologists specializing in Alzheimer's are often located in larger cities like Raleigh or Durham. This necessitates longer travel times and further complicates the **transportation** equation.

The ability to secure timely and reliable **transportation** is paramount for maintaining the health and well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's. The absence of readily available options, coupled with the challenges of driving and the limitations of public **transportation**, creates a significant barrier to **healthcare access** in 27524.

For those considering **moving to Four Oaks** with a loved one affected by Alzheimer's, a thorough assessment of **transportation** needs is essential. The availability of support systems, such as family members or caregivers, who can provide **transportation** assistance, is a crucial factor.

Furthermore, exploring the possibility of utilizing medical **transportation** services or carefully budgeting for ride-sharing options is essential. The proximity of healthcare facilities and the ease of access to specialized care should be a primary consideration.

The **Alzheimer's Score** for **transportation** and **healthcare access** in 27524 is therefore influenced by the limited public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** options. The score is further impacted by the distance to specialized care facilities and the potential challenges of navigating highways and roads.

The score reflects the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's can access the healthcare they require. This includes exploring all available **transportation** options, establishing a robust support system, and proactively seeking out resources that can facilitate access to care.

In conclusion, while the charm of Four Oaks and the surrounding area is undeniable, the challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's require careful consideration. The **Alzheimer's Score** highlights the need for proactive planning, exploring all available resources, and ensuring that the individual's **transportation** needs are met to guarantee their well-being.