27852, Macclesfield, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27852, Macclesfield, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.20 percent of residents in 27852 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilson Medical Center with a distance of 1.97 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27852

The tranquil, rural landscape of Macclesfield, North Carolina, nestled within ZIP code 27852, offers a peaceful haven. However, for those considering a move, particularly individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, a crucial factor demands careful consideration: the ease of **healthcare access**. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," delves into the **transportation** landscape, assessing the viability of reaching essential medical appointments.

The journey begins with a fundamental understanding of the geographic realities. Macclesfield, a town of approximately 500 residents, is situated in Edgecombe County. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are primarily located in Tarboro, Greenville, and Wilson, each presenting unique **transportation** challenges. The Alzheimer's Score weighs these challenges, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and the availability of alternative **transportation** services.

The primary mode of **transportation** in this area is, inevitably, the personal vehicle. The drive to Vidant Edgecombe Hospital in Tarboro, roughly 15 miles away, is the most accessible option. The route primarily involves taking NC-97 East, a relatively straightforward and well-maintained road. The drive typically takes around 20-25 minutes, making it a feasible option for regular appointments. However, the patient’s driving abilities, and the need for a caregiver, are vital considerations.

For more specialized care, the journey to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, approximately 30 miles from Macclesfield, becomes necessary. This route primarily involves taking NC-97 East to US-264 East. The drive can take up to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The longer travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety or confusion during extended periods of travel. This travel time, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score.

Wilson, approximately 25 miles from Macclesfield, also provides healthcare options, including Wilson Medical Center. The route involves taking NC-97 West to US-264 West. The drive time is comparable to Greenville, around 40 minutes, with similar considerations regarding traffic and the patient's comfort. This further reduces the Alzheimer's Score.

Public **transportation** options in ZIP code 27852 are limited. The primary provider is the Tar River Transit, which serves Edgecombe County. However, the service is primarily demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This is especially problematic for those with Alzheimer's disease who may experience unpredictable needs for medical attention.

Tar River Transit offers ADA-accessible vehicles, a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the service area and frequency are limited, and the scheduling process can be challenging for caregivers. This significantly lowers the Alzheimer's Score. The availability of public transit is a crucial element of **healthcare access**, especially for those who can no longer drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in rural areas like Macclesfield can be inconsistent. This can lead to longer wait times and potential cancellations, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The unpredictable nature of these services poses a significant challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's, who require predictable and reliable **transportation**. This instability further reduces the Alzheimer's Score.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private companies, are another option. These services typically provide door-to-door **transportation** and may offer specialized assistance for individuals with cognitive impairments. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may be limited. The cost and potential logistical complexities of these services must be carefully considered when evaluating the Alzheimer's Score.

The Alzheimer's Score also considers the availability of caregivers. The ability to secure reliable and supportive care is critical for individuals with Alzheimer's. Caregivers often bear the responsibility of coordinating **transportation** to medical appointments. The availability of local support groups, respite care services, and home healthcare providers can significantly improve the quality of life for both the patient and the caregiver.

Moving to Macclesfield requires a comprehensive assessment of the available resources. The Alzheimer's Score takes into account the distance to healthcare facilities, the reliability of **transportation** options, and the availability of caregiver support. The score provides a valuable framework for evaluating the suitability of the area for individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's disease.

The Alzheimer's Score for ZIP code 27852 reflects the challenges associated with **healthcare access**. While the proximity to Tarboro offers some degree of accessibility, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** and ride-sharing services present significant obstacles. The need for specialized medical care in Greenville or Wilson further complicates matters.

The score would be significantly improved by increased public transit options, especially those with a fixed route and frequent schedules. The expansion of ride-sharing services and the availability of affordable medical **transportation** would also enhance the score. Furthermore, the development of local support services for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers would greatly improve the quality of life and improve the Alzheimer's Score.

In conclusion, while Macclesfield offers the allure of a peaceful rural setting, the **transportation** landscape presents significant challenges for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. Careful consideration of these factors, along with a thorough assessment of individual needs and resources, is essential before making a move. The Alzheimer's Score serves as a valuable tool for navigating these complexities and ensuring access to the necessary medical care.