27932, Edenton, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27932, Edenton, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.82 percent of residents in 27932 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Chowan Hospital with a distance of 0.35 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 27932

The tranquil embrace of Edenton, North Carolina, nestled within the 27932 ZIP code, beckons with its historic charm and serene waterfront. For individuals and families considering a move, particularly those navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This Alzheimer's Score provides a detailed assessment of transportation options, a critical component of ensuring consistent and reliable healthcare access. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape significantly impacts the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

This analysis focuses on the practical realities of accessing healthcare facilities from various locations within the 27932 ZIP code. We'll examine drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions about their move to Edenton, considering the unique challenges posed by Alzheimer's disease.

Driving, the most common mode of transportation, offers a degree of independence and control. However, it's crucial to assess drive times to essential healthcare providers. From the heart of Edenton, a drive to the Chowan Hospital, located on Virginia Road, is typically a short and manageable journey. The route primarily utilizes Broad Street, which seamlessly transitions into Virginia Road. The drive, depending on traffic, usually takes between 5 to 10 minutes.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in neighboring cities. A trip to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina, is a significant undertaking. The most direct route involves taking US-17 South, a major thoroughfare. The drive, covering approximately 70 miles, can take anywhere from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This longer drive necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety or fatigue during extended travel.

Another option is the Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City, approximately 30 miles from Edenton. The journey, primarily via US-17 North, typically takes 45 minutes to an hour. While closer than Greenville, this still requires careful consideration of the patient's comfort and the caregiver's availability.

Public transportation options in Edenton are limited. The Albemarle Rural Transportation System (ARTS) provides demand-response transportation services, including door-to-door rides. While ARTS is available, it is essential to inquire about the specifics of their service, including availability, scheduling procedures, and ADA accessibility features. Confirming the availability of accessible vehicles and trained drivers is essential for individuals with mobility challenges or cognitive impairments.

Navigating the public transportation system requires careful planning and coordination. The caregiver must be prepared to schedule rides in advance, account for potential delays, and ensure the patient’s comfort and safety throughout the journey. The success of this option depends heavily on the reliability of the service and the availability of trained personnel.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in Edenton and the surrounding areas needs to be verified. Even if services are available, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The caregiver must also consider the patient’s comfort level and ability to interact with a ride-share driver.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with Alzheimer's who require assistance with transportation. These services provide trained personnel and vehicles equipped to handle the specific needs of patients with medical conditions. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including First Choice Medical Transportation and Medical Transport Services.

These services offer a more controlled and supportive environment. They can provide assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle, monitoring the patient's condition during the journey, and communicating with healthcare providers. While medical transport services offer a higher level of care, they often come at a higher cost.

Healthcare access in Edenton presents both advantages and challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The proximity of the Chowan Hospital offers immediate medical care. However, specialized treatments and services may require travel to larger medical centers in Greenville or Elizabeth City. The availability of public transportation is limited, and ride-sharing services may not be readily accessible.

Medical transport services provide a valuable option, but their cost must be considered. The caregiver's role is crucial in navigating the transportation landscape, coordinating appointments, and ensuring the patient's safety and well-being.

Moving to Edenton requires a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Score highlights the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options, considering drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services. The caregiver's ability to navigate this complex landscape significantly impacts the patient's quality of life.

By understanding the transportation infrastructure and available resources, prospective residents can make informed decisions, ensuring that healthcare access remains a priority. The peaceful environment of Edenton, combined with careful planning and a proactive approach to transportation, can provide a supportive and enriching environment for individuals living with Alzheimer's and their families. The success of a move to Edenton hinges on the thoughtful integration of these factors.