28391, Stedman, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28391, Stedman, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.85 percent of residents in 28391 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital with a distance of 23.00 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stedman (ZIP Code 28391)

The decision to relocate, especially for individuals or families facing the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, demands meticulous planning. Healthcare access, a critical component of this planning, becomes even more crucial. This Alzheimer's Score for Stedman, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28391), aims to provide a detailed assessment of transportation options and healthcare facilities, allowing for informed decisions regarding the feasibility of settling in this community. The focus is on ease of access to care, understanding that navigating the healthcare landscape can be challenging for those with cognitive impairments.

Stedman, a small town nestled in Cumberland County, presents unique considerations. While offering a close-knit community feel, its rural setting influences transportation choices and, consequently, healthcare access. This analysis considers the available modes of transportation, their accessibility features, and the proximity of healthcare providers, providing a comprehensive overview for individuals and families contemplating a move.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Mobility**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option hinges on the condition of local roadways and the distance to essential healthcare services. In Stedman, the primary thoroughfare is NC-24, a vital artery connecting the town to larger urban centers like Fayetteville.

Driving to Fayetteville, the nearest city with a comprehensive healthcare infrastructure, takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes via NC-24. This route is generally well-maintained, offering a relatively smooth journey. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times, impacting the ability to reach appointments promptly. Accessing Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a major regional hospital, requires navigating through Fayetteville's central areas, potentially adding to the complexity of the commute.

Further afield, the drive to Raleigh, the state capital, is roughly a two-hour journey. This trip involves traveling on I-95, a major interstate highway, and then transitioning onto other roadways. While I-95 facilitates long-distance travel, it can experience heavy traffic, especially during holiday periods or when incidents occur. The extended travel time to Raleigh necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Within Stedman, local roads are primarily two-lane highways and residential streets. These roads generally offer adequate access, although some may lack sidewalks or dedicated bicycle lanes, potentially limiting mobility for those who prefer walking or cycling. Regular road maintenance is crucial for ensuring safe and accessible travel.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Stedman and the surrounding areas are limited. The Fayetteville Area System of Transit (FAST) provides bus services within Fayetteville, but its reach into Stedman is minimal. The availability of public transit is a significant factor when assessing healthcare access, as it provides an alternative for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

FAST routes that serve Fayetteville may offer connections to medical facilities, but the lack of direct routes from Stedman necessitates multiple transfers, increasing travel time and complexity. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. FAST buses are equipped with features like ramps or lifts, designated seating, and audio-visual announcements to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and the need for transfers can still pose challenges for individuals with cognitive impairments.

The absence of robust public transportation underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fayetteville area, including Stedman. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient option for accessing healthcare appointments. However, the reliability of ride-sharing can vary, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized approach. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assistance with mobility, and trained personnel to support passengers. Several medical transport providers operate in the Fayetteville area, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transportation.

These services provide a valuable lifeline for those who cannot drive or are unable to use public transportation. However, the cost of medical transport can be a significant factor, and it is essential to investigate insurance coverage and available financial assistance programs.

**Healthcare Facilities: Proximity and Specialization**

The availability of healthcare facilities is a paramount consideration. Stedman itself has limited healthcare services. Residents primarily rely on facilities in Fayetteville. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is the closest major hospital, offering a wide range of medical specialties and services.

Several outpatient clinics and physician offices are located in Fayetteville, providing primary care, specialist consultations, and diagnostic services. These facilities are generally accessible by car, but the distance and potential traffic congestion should be factored into the planning process.

For specialized care, such as geriatric medicine or memory care, individuals may need to travel to facilities further afield. The availability of these specialized services within a reasonable distance is crucial for managing Alzheimer's disease effectively.

**Accessibility Considerations: Beyond the Physical**

Beyond the physical aspects of transportation and healthcare facilities, accessibility extends to other crucial factors. Clear signage, easy-to-navigate waiting areas, and staff trained in interacting with individuals with cognitive impairments are essential. The ability to communicate effectively with healthcare providers and the availability of resources to support caregivers are also critical.

The presence of support groups, memory care programs, and respite care services within the community can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

**Alzheimer's Score Summary: Weighing the Factors**

This Alzheimer's Score for Stedman reveals a mixed landscape. While the town offers a sense of community and a lower cost of living, healthcare access presents certain challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options necessitate careful planning. The proximity of Fayetteville and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offer solutions, but these options have associated costs and potential limitations.

Individuals and families considering a move to Stedman should carefully assess their transportation needs, healthcare requirements, and financial resources. The availability of support services, the willingness of healthcare providers to accommodate individuals with cognitive impairments, and the ability to navigate the transportation landscape are all critical factors.

Moving to Stedman can be a viable option, but a thorough understanding of the transportation and healthcare landscape is essential. Careful planning, the exploration of available resources, and a proactive approach to healthcare access are crucial for ensuring a successful transition and maintaining a high quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's.