28398, Warsaw, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28398, Warsaw, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.91 percent of residents in 28398 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 7.37 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Warsaw, NC (ZIP Code 28398)

The decision to relocate, especially for those facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of available resources. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," focuses on transportation and healthcare access within ZIP code 28398, Warsaw, North Carolina, a rural community. Understanding the practicalities of getting to appointments is paramount, impacting quality of life and the ability to maintain independence. This write-up considers the realities of transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial elements in assessing the suitability of Warsaw for individuals and families considering a move.

Warsaw, nestled in Duplin County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The town's rural character, while offering a sense of peace, also influences the availability and accessibility of transportation options. The area's healthcare infrastructure, while present, requires careful consideration of travel times and modes of transport. This assessment aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing healthcare within the context of Alzheimer's disease.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Warsaw. The town's central location is served by several key roadways. US Highway 117, a major north-south artery, provides access to larger towns and cities. NC Highway 24, running east-west, offers another critical route. Local roads, such as NC Highway 903 and various county roads, connect Warsaw to surrounding communities.

A significant consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's is the time required to reach medical facilities. Drive times to specialized care can be substantial. The nearest hospitals, such as Sampson Regional Medical Center in Clinton, are approximately a 30-45 minute drive via US-117. Accessing Wilmington, with its more comprehensive healthcare options, involves a drive of around an hour and a half via NC-24 and I-40.

These drive times can be taxing for individuals with cognitive impairments. The need for frequent appointments, coupled with the potential for disorientation and memory loss, makes long drives particularly challenging. Family members or caregivers may need to factor in extra time for navigation, rest stops, and managing potential anxiety.

Public transportation in Warsaw is limited. Duplin County does offer a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the needs of the general population. The system may not be equipped with the specific features required to support individuals with Alzheimer's.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial. While the county transit system may have some ADA-compliant vehicles, their availability and scheduling may not always align with the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. Detailed information on routes, schedules, and ADA features can be obtained by contacting the Duplin County Transit Department directly. The number and frequency of routes are limited, so it is important to research the system's efficiency.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas, but their presence in Warsaw is less certain. Service availability is often dependent on driver availability and demand. This can be a significant issue, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled at unusual times.

The reliability of ride-sharing services for medical appointments is also a concern. Individuals with Alzheimer's may require assistance with boarding and exiting vehicles, and drivers may not always be equipped or trained to provide this level of support. Advance booking and clear communication with the driver are essential.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. Several companies offer medical transportation in the region, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for scheduled appointments.

Companies like First Choice Medical Transportation and others may serve the Warsaw area. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medication management. The cost of medical transportation can vary, and it is essential to check insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses.

The Alzheimer's Score for Warsaw, NC, is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The rural setting presents challenges in terms of transportation options and healthcare access. While the town offers a sense of community, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel to larger cities.

The limited public transit, the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on driving highlight the importance of careful planning. Individuals and families considering a move to Warsaw must prioritize access to reliable transportation. This includes exploring all available options, from family support to medical transportation services.

Moving to Warsaw requires a detailed assessment of the individual's specific needs and capabilities. The ability to drive safely, the availability of a caregiver, and the financial resources to access medical transportation are all critical considerations. The Alzheimer's Score is not a definitive rating, but a framework for evaluating the practicalities of accessing healthcare within the context of Alzheimer's disease.

The success of a move to Warsaw depends on proactive planning and the establishment of a robust support system. This includes identifying healthcare providers, arranging for transportation, and ensuring access to necessary resources. The journey to healthcare should be manageable, and the quality of life should be preserved.