27576, Selma, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27576, Selma, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.09 percent of residents in 27576 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johnston Health with a distance of 5.17 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Selma, NC (ZIP Code 27576)

Considering a move to Selma, North Carolina (ZIP code 27576), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for someone with Alzheimer's? This analysis provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options, crucial for navigating healthcare appointments and ensuring continued well-being. We'll delve into the practicalities of getting to medical facilities, considering the unique challenges faced by individuals with cognitive impairments.

The Alzheimer's Score isn't a numerical grade, but a narrative assessment, painting a picture of transportation realities. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. This evaluation aims to help you understand the landscape and make informed decisions about healthcare accessibility.

Selma, a town with a population of around 7,000, offers a more rural environment compared to larger metropolitan areas. This setting impacts transportation choices, and thus, healthcare access. The primary consideration is the distance to healthcare facilities, which requires a thorough understanding of the local transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The major roadways that shape transportation in and around Selma are crucial. Interstate 95 (I-95) runs along the eastern edge of Selma, offering a fast route north and south. However, relying on I-95 for local healthcare access might not always be practical, especially for routine appointments.

US Highway 301 (US-301) runs directly through Selma, serving as a vital artery for local travel. It provides access to businesses, services, and, importantly, healthcare facilities within and near the town. North Carolina Highway 50 (NC-50) intersects US-301 in Selma, offering another route for navigating the area.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are critical. The Johnston Health Smithfield facility, located approximately 10 miles north of Selma, is a significant healthcare provider. Expect a drive time of around 15-20 minutes via US-301, depending on traffic. The Johnston Health Clayton facility is further, about 25 miles away, translating to a 30-40 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions on US-70.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, longer drives can be challenging. Cognitive difficulties, such as disorientation and memory loss, can make navigating unfamiliar roads and handling traffic stressful. Therefore, proximity to healthcare facilities is a significant factor.

**Public Transit: Limited but Present**

Public transportation options in Selma are limited, a common characteristic of smaller towns. The Johnston County Area Transit System (JCATS) provides some public transportation services within Johnston County. However, the routes and schedules may not be as frequent or extensive as in larger cities.

Information regarding specific JCATS routes serving Selma and their frequency is essential. It’s crucial to determine whether routes connect directly to healthcare facilities like Johnston Health Smithfield or Clayton. Consider the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the buses. Are they equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with mobility challenges?

The availability of fixed-route buses and demand-response services is essential. Demand-response services, often requiring advance booking, can be crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's who may not be able to navigate fixed routes independently. However, these services may have limited hours and availability.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Selma, offering another transportation option. However, the availability of drivers can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. Reliability is crucial. Can you consistently secure a ride for scheduled appointments?

Medical transport services are specifically designed for individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the area, including:

* **First Medical Transport:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation.
* **CareRide Medical Transportation:** Provides transport for medical appointments.

These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles. They can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's who require extra support. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant factor.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access extends beyond transportation. Consider the availability of specialized geriatric care, memory care clinics, and support groups in the area. These resources are vital for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

The proximity of pharmacies, grocery stores, and other essential services is also important. Can you easily access these services using the available transportation options?

**Moving to Selma: A Personalized Assessment**

Evaluating the "Alzheimer's Score" for Selma requires a personalized assessment. What are the individual's specific needs and abilities? How comfortable are they with different transportation methods?

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the ideal scenario involves living close to healthcare facilities, with easy access to reliable transportation. This could mean residing within a short driving distance of Johnston Health Smithfield or Clayton, or having access to regular and dependable ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Caregivers must carefully consider the transportation challenges and plan accordingly. This includes researching transportation options, establishing backup plans, and considering the potential costs associated with different services.

Moving to Selma can be a positive experience, but it requires careful planning and consideration of healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape and available resources, you can make informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of the individual with Alzheimer's.