28436, Delco, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28436, Delco, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.69 percent of residents in 28436 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 19.56 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28436

The specter of Alzheimer's disease looms large, demanding meticulous planning, especially concerning healthcare access. This analysis provides a "Alzheimer's Score" for transportation options within ZIP Code 28436, focusing on ease of access to medical facilities. Considering the challenges Alzheimer's presents, this score evaluates the practicalities of reaching healthcare, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. This is vital for individuals considering moving to Delco, North Carolina, or for those already residing here, ensuring their ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

**Drive Times: The Road Ahead**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in 28436, but it presents unique considerations for individuals with Alzheimer's. The ability to drive safely and independently diminishes as the disease progresses. Therefore, understanding drive times to key healthcare providers is crucial for planning.

The primary thoroughfare, **US Highway 17**, provides access to Wilmington and surrounding areas. Driving to **New Hanover Regional Medical Center** in Wilmington via US-17 typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route, while generally straightforward, can become congested, particularly during peak hours. Navigating this stretch requires attention, and the potential for delays could prove challenging for someone with cognitive impairments.

Smaller roads, such as **NC Highway 211**, offer alternative routes. However, these roads often involve more turns and potential for confusion. The drive to the **Brunswick Novant Medical Center** in Bolivia, using a combination of NC-211 and other local roads, is roughly 20-30 minutes. While shorter, these routes may be less familiar and potentially more stressful.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in 28436 are limited, presenting significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The **Wave Transit** system, serving the Wilmington area, offers some routes that extend into the periphery of 28436. However, these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

The Wave Transit system does provide ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the need for transfers, the potential for long wait times, and the reliance on schedules can be overwhelming for someone with cognitive decline. The lack of readily available, convenient public transit significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** offer an alternative to driving and public transit. However, the availability of these services in 28436 may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services offer a more tailored approach. Companies like **Care Ride** and **FirstLight Home Care** provide transportation specifically for individuals with medical needs. These services often include door-to-door assistance and may be equipped to handle mobility issues. While these options offer convenience and support, they are generally more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. The reliability and availability of these services are crucial factors in the Alzheimer's Score.

**Healthcare Access: The Cornerstone of the Score**

The proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities are paramount. 28436 residents have access to hospitals, clinics, and specialized care providers. However, the distance to these facilities and the availability of transportation directly impact the ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center** in Wilmington provides comprehensive medical services, including neurology and geriatric care. **Brunswick Novant Medical Center** in Bolivia offers a range of services, including primary care and specialized clinics. Local clinics and physician offices within 28436 offer some level of care, but the availability of specialized services may be limited.

**Alzheimer's Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Alzheimer's Score for 28436 reflects the challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The length and complexity of drives to healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transportation.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability, reliability, and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and specialized services offered by medical transport providers.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** The distance to healthcare facilities and the availability of specialized care.

**Scoring Methodology:**

Each factor is assigned a score based on its impact on healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. The scores are weighted based on their relative importance. For example, drive times and the availability of specialized medical transport services carry more weight than the availability of public transit. The final Alzheimer's Score is then calculated, providing a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape in 28436.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Expand Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of Wave Transit routes, particularly those serving healthcare facilities.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Partner with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates or subsidized transportation for individuals with Alzheimer's.
* **Enhance Medical Transport:** Increase the availability of medical transport services and ensure they are equipped to handle the specific needs of individuals with cognitive impairments.
* **Improve Healthcare Facility Accessibility:** Ensure all healthcare facilities are easily accessible, with clear signage, ample parking, and supportive staff.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available transportation options and resources for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The Alzheimer's Score for 28436 highlights the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. While the area offers some options, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of driving necessitate a multi-faceted approach. By understanding the transportation landscape, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and proactively seek support. This includes exploring ride-sharing, medical transport, and other available resources. For those considering moving to Delco, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial for ensuring a supportive and accessible environment. Ultimately, the goal is to create a community where individuals with Alzheimer's can live with dignity and receive the care they deserve, navigating the journey with compassion and support.