28454, Maple Hill, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28454, Maple Hill, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.30 percent of residents in 28454 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.74 miles from the area.

**Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28454 (Maple Hill, NC)**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals facing Alzheimer's disease, demands a keen understanding of available transportation options. This assessment focuses on ZIP code 28454, encompassing the Maple Hill, North Carolina area, evaluating the feasibility of reaching necessary medical appointments. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-share services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" that reflects the challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic context.

Maple Hill, nestled within the heart of Pender County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The area is primarily rural, with a population density that impacts the availability and efficiency of various transportation methods. Understanding these nuances is crucial for assessing the ease with which residents, particularly those with cognitive impairments, can access vital healthcare services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the practical realities of healthcare access in this community.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary mode of transportation in 28454 is the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on their cars to reach medical appointments. The drive times to healthcare facilities, therefore, become a critical factor. The closest significant medical centers are in Jacksonville and Wilmington.

To reach Jacksonville, residents typically travel via NC-53 East. The drive is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times. The distance is approximately 25 miles, and under ideal conditions, the drive takes about 35-45 minutes. This is a manageable commute for most, but for individuals with Alzheimer's, even a short drive can be challenging.

Wilmington, a larger city with more extensive healthcare options, presents a longer commute. The most direct route involves taking NC-53 East to US-17 South. The distance is roughly 45 miles, and the drive can take upwards of an hour, potentially longer during rush hour. This extended travel time can exacerbate the difficulties associated with Alzheimer's, including disorientation and anxiety.

The road infrastructure in the area is generally well-maintained, but the rural nature of the roads means that access to healthcare is heavily reliant on personal vehicles. This is a key consideration when evaluating healthcare access.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in 28454 are limited. Pender County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The closest public transit is in Jacksonville, but this requires a drive to access. This poses a significant barrier for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their condition.

The lack of public transit, particularly for those with mobility limitations or cognitive impairments, presents a major challenge to healthcare access. Individuals relying on public transit for transportation to healthcare appointments are essentially left with no options. The absence of accessible public transit underscores the reliance on other transportation solutions.

**Ride-Share Services**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary significantly. While these services offer a potential solution, their presence in the rural setting is not as consistent as in larger urban areas.

The availability of ride-share services depends on driver density and demand. During off-peak hours or in less populated areas, securing a ride can be challenging, leading to potential delays or missed appointments. The cost of ride-share services can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

**Medical Transport Services**

Medical transport services are available in the area. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, including those with Alzheimer's. They offer specialized transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical requirements.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation companies. These services typically require advance booking, and the cost can vary depending on the distance, level of care needed, and the specific service provider.

The availability of medical transport services is a crucial component of healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. These services provide a safe and reliable means of transportation, ensuring that patients can attend their medical appointments.

**Assessing the "Alzheimer's Score"**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for 28454 is a reflection of the transportation challenges and available solutions. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The relatively long drive times to Jacksonville and Wilmington, coupled with potential traffic congestion, can be stressful and disorienting for individuals with Alzheimer's.
* **Public Transit:** The lack of public transit options severely limits healthcare access for those who cannot drive.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The inconsistent availability of ride-share services in a rural area adds to the uncertainty of transportation.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability of medical transport services is a positive factor, providing a reliable option for those who need it.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for 28454 would be moderate. While medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline, the limitations in other transportation options create significant barriers to healthcare access.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's in 28454, several strategies are recommended.

* **Advocate for Increased Public Transit:** Lobbying for the expansion of public transit services, including routes connecting Maple Hill to healthcare facilities in Jacksonville and Wilmington, is essential. This could include the implementation of a demand-response transit system.
* **Promote Ride-Share Awareness:** Raising awareness of ride-share services and encouraging their use can improve healthcare access.
* **Support Medical Transport Services:** Providing resources and support to medical transport providers ensures the availability of specialized transportation.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Expanding telehealth services can reduce the need for in-person appointments, making healthcare more accessible.
* **Community Education:** Educating residents about available transportation options and resources is crucial.

**Conclusion: Moving to Maple Hill**

The decision to move to Maple Hill, NC, should be carefully considered for individuals with Alzheimer's. While the area offers a peaceful and rural environment, the transportation challenges to healthcare access are significant. Careful planning, including assessing available transportation options and understanding the potential costs, is essential. The availability of medical transport services is a critical factor, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-share services require careful consideration. A comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is paramount to ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's can access the healthcare they need.