28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.94 percent of residents in 28365 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 14.60 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28365

The tranquil town of Mount Olive, North Carolina, nestled in ZIP code 28365, offers a slower pace of life, a potential draw for those considering a move, perhaps even for retirement. However, the realities of healthcare access, especially for individuals navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, demand careful consideration. This analysis, a "Alzheimer's Score" write-up, examines the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing vital healthcare services within and around this specific area. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the logistical hurdles and opportunities that residents, particularly those with cognitive impairments, may face.

The primary concern for those with Alzheimer's is consistent and reliable access to medical care. This includes routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and emergency services. Transportation becomes a critical factor in this equation. The ability to get to and from these appointments safely and efficiently significantly impacts the quality of life for both the individual and their caregivers.

Driving is, undoubtedly, the most common mode of transportation in this predominantly rural area. The major thoroughfares impacting access to healthcare include Interstate 40 (I-40), a vital east-west artery, and US Highway 117, a crucial north-south route. From Mount Olive, a drive to the nearest major healthcare provider, UNC Health Wayne in Goldsboro, typically involves a journey of approximately 20 miles. This drive, primarily via US-117 South, can take between 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The drive to Wilmington, a larger city with more specialized medical facilities, is further. This journey, mostly on I-40 East, covers roughly 80 miles and can take between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, again contingent on traffic. The reliability of these drive times is crucial. Unexpected delays, due to accidents or construction, can create significant stress for individuals with cognitive impairments and their caregivers, potentially leading to missed appointments or increased anxiety.

Public transportation options in this area are limited. While Wayne County, in which Mount Olive is situated, offers a public transit system, the routes and frequency are not ideally suited for the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. The system, known as Wayne County Transit, provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This can be challenging for those with unpredictable needs or memory difficulties.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial. While Wayne County Transit does offer some accessible vehicles, the demand can be high, and the wait times can be lengthy. The lack of frequent, fixed-route services also presents a significant hurdle. Individuals with Alzheimer's often require assistance navigating unfamiliar environments, and the absence of readily available public transit exacerbates this challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative. However, the availability of these services in Mount Olive is not as robust as in larger metropolitan areas. While they are present, wait times can be longer, and the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The reliance on smartphones and apps can also pose a challenge for individuals with cognitive impairments or those who are unfamiliar with technology.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, are another potential solution. Companies like Med-Ride and First Choice Medical Transport offer specialized transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist patients with mobility issues and provide support during the journey. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, requiring careful planning and coordination.

The Alzheimer's Score for transportation in ZIP code 28365 is, therefore, moderate. While driving offers the most direct access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for long drive times to specialized facilities are factors to consider. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services add further complexities.

For those considering moving to Mount Olive, especially those with Alzheimer's or their caregivers, a proactive approach to transportation planning is essential. This includes assessing the individual's ability to drive safely, exploring the availability of ride-sharing services, and investigating the options offered by medical transportation providers.

The proximity to healthcare facilities, such as UNC Health Wayne, is a positive factor. However, the need to travel to larger cities like Wilmington for specialized care should also be factored into the equation. The availability of local support services, such as home healthcare and respite care, can also play a crucial role in mitigating transportation challenges.

Ultimately, the ability to maintain access to healthcare is paramount for individuals with Alzheimer's. Careful consideration of the transportation landscape, coupled with proactive planning and the utilization of available resources, is essential to ensuring a high quality of life for those living with this challenging disease. The decision to move to Mount Olive, or any location, requires a comprehensive assessment of the transportation infrastructure and its capacity to meet the healthcare needs of the individual. The Alzheimer's Score serves as a tool to facilitate this assessment, promoting informed decision-making and ensuring the best possible outcomes for those affected by this disease.