27876, Seaboard, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27876, Seaboard, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.37 percent of residents in 27876 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Halifax Regional Medical Center Inc with a distance of 12.67 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Seaboard, NC (ZIP Code 27876)

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing Alzheimer's disease, demands a thorough understanding of available transportation options. This analysis, tailored for ZIP code 27876 (Seaboard, North Carolina), evaluates the accessibility of medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. It aims to provide a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score," reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical care within this specific locale. This is especially critical when considering the challenges of **transportation** for those with cognitive impairments.

Seaboard, a small town nestled in Northampton County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding **healthcare access**. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in neighboring towns, necessitating travel. The **Alzheimer's Score** will consider factors like distance, road conditions, and the availability of alternative transportation methods, crucial for individuals considering **moving to Seaboard** and requiring ongoing medical support.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Seaboard. The major thoroughfare is US-158, which serves as the primary artery connecting Seaboard to surrounding areas. Traveling east on US-158 leads to Roanoke Rapids, a town offering a broader range of healthcare services. This drive typically takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, heading west on US-158 provides access to Jackson, the county seat. While Jackson has some medical facilities, they are generally smaller and may not offer the specialized care required for Alzheimer's patients. Drive times to Jackson are usually around 10 to 15 minutes. The condition of these roads is generally good, but the rural nature of the area means limited lighting and potential wildlife hazards, especially during nighttime travel.

The drive to larger cities like Raleigh, offering more comprehensive healthcare options, is considerably longer. Taking US-158 to I-95 South, then connecting to I-40 East, would take approximately two hours, assuming no traffic delays. This extended travel time significantly impacts the **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety and fatigue during long journeys.

Public transit options in Seaboard are limited. Northampton County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The closest public transportation options are located in neighboring counties, such as Halifax County, which offers a rural transit system. However, these services may not extend directly into Seaboard or may have limited schedules and routes.

The absence of readily available public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or are unable to rely on family members for transportation. The lack of accessibility also impacts those who may require wheelchair-accessible vehicles, as these are not always available.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Seaboard area, though their availability may be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The reliability of these services for regular medical appointments is questionable, as wait times can vary, and drivers may not always be familiar with the specific needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services or Liberty Homecare provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, potentially creating a financial barrier to **healthcare access**.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Seaboard, NC (ZIP code 27876) is moderately challenging. While the town is close to some medical facilities, the lack of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services present significant obstacles. The long drive to more comprehensive healthcare options in Raleigh further exacerbates the difficulties.

The availability of family support is crucial in this context. Family members often become the primary drivers, providing transportation to medical appointments and ensuring the safety and comfort of their loved ones. However, this can place a significant burden on caregivers, who may need to balance their responsibilities with work and personal lives.

Considering the challenges of **transportation**, individuals with Alzheimer's disease in Seaboard may face difficulties in accessing consistent and timely medical care. This underscores the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness.

The development of a local volunteer driver program could significantly improve **healthcare access**. Such a program could recruit and train volunteers to provide transportation to medical appointments, offering a more affordable and reliable alternative to ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Another important consideration is the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth requires reliable internet access, which may be limited in some parts of Seaboard.

The **Alzheimer's Score** for Seaboard is not insurmountable. With careful planning, access to healthcare is possible. The potential for improvement lies in the expansion of transportation options, the promotion of telehealth, and the creation of community-based support systems.

The decision to **move to Seaboard** should be made with a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape. Potential residents, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease or their caregivers, should carefully assess the available transportation options, the proximity of medical facilities, and the availability of support services.

The availability of home healthcare services is another critical factor. Home healthcare providers can offer a range of services, from medication management to personal care, reducing the need for frequent trips to medical facilities.

Furthermore, the local community can play a vital role in improving **healthcare access**. Community organizations can advocate for improved transportation options, support the development of volunteer driver programs, and provide educational resources for caregivers.

In conclusion, the **Alzheimer's Score** for Seaboard, NC (ZIP code 27876) reflects a moderate level of challenge in accessing healthcare. The limitations in **transportation**, the reliance on driving, and the potential costs associated with medical transport services necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness. The availability of family support, the potential for telehealth, and the development of community-based support systems are crucial factors in mitigating these challenges. While **moving to Seaboard** presents certain difficulties, proactive planning and community involvement can significantly improve the **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.