28340, Fairmont, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.05 percent of residents in 28340 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.21 miles from the area.

**Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fairmont, NC (ZIP Code 28340)**

Considering a move to Fairmont, North Carolina, and concerned about healthcare access, especially if Alzheimer's disease is a factor? Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. This assessment, the "Alzheimer's Score," evaluates the ease of accessing medical care, considering factors like drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options. This score is not a formal medical diagnosis, but rather a practical guide to navigating the challenges of healthcare access in Fairmont.

The primary consideration is the distance to healthcare facilities. Fairmont, nestled in Robeson County, offers limited immediate medical options. The nearest hospitals and specialized care centers are primarily located in Lumberton and surrounding areas. These drive times become critical for those with Alzheimer's, where frequent medical appointments are the norm.

Driving, the most common transportation method, presents its own set of challenges. The primary routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating US-74, a major east-west highway, and I-95, a north-south interstate. These highways, while providing efficient travel, can be overwhelming for individuals with cognitive impairments. The drive to Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, a vital healthcare hub, is approximately 15-20 minutes via US-74. This route, while relatively short, requires navigating traffic signals, lane changes, and potential congestion.

For those seeking specialized care, such as neurology or memory clinics, the drive times may extend further. Accessing facilities in Fayetteville, about an hour away, would necessitate travel on I-95, a highway known for its high-speed traffic and potential for driver fatigue. This longer journey demands careful planning and consideration for the patient's comfort and cognitive abilities.

Public transportation options in Fairmont are limited. The Robeson County Area Transportation System (RCATS) provides demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system, while offering ADA-compliant vehicles, can be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's due to the need for pre-planning and potential delays. The lack of fixed-route buses adds to the complexity, making spontaneous trips to the doctor difficult.

The availability of ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, is another aspect to consider. While these services may be available in Fairmont, their reliability and cost can vary. The consistency of these services is crucial for those with Alzheimer's, who often require scheduled appointments and predictable transportation. The availability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours or for trips outside of Fairmont, needs to be confirmed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility or cognitive challenges, offer a specialized solution. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services, while not directly operating in Fairmont, may provide services to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often include trained attendants and specialized vehicles, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Fairmont, NC, reflects the existing limitations in transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to healthcare access. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while relatively short for some, can be challenging for those with cognitive impairments.

For individuals considering moving to Fairmont with Alzheimer's, careful planning is essential. This includes assessing the patient's ability to drive, identifying reliable caregivers, and exploring all available transportation options. Establishing a support network, including family, friends, and healthcare professionals, is crucial. The choice of residence should consider proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of transportation services.

The "Alzheimer's Score" emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. This includes understanding the transportation landscape, evaluating the patient's cognitive abilities, and securing the necessary support systems. While Fairmont offers a welcoming community, the challenges of healthcare access for those with Alzheimer's require careful consideration. The goal is to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain their independence and receive the necessary medical care, regardless of their location.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Fairmont highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare access. The limitations in transportation options, coupled with the potential for cognitive challenges, necessitate careful planning and a proactive approach. By understanding the transportation landscape, identifying reliable caregivers, and exploring all available options, individuals with Alzheimer's can navigate the healthcare system and maintain their quality of life in Fairmont. This is especially important when considering moving to Fairmont.