28458, Rose Hill, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28458, Rose Hill, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.67 percent of residents in 28458 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 10.93 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rose Hill, NC (ZIP Code 28458)

The decision to relocate, especially for individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of local resources. This Alzheimer's Score assesses the accessibility of healthcare in Rose Hill, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28458), focusing on transportation options crucial for maintaining healthcare access. This analysis will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a detailed picture for those considering moving to Rose Hill.

Rose Hill, a charming town in Duplin County, offers a tranquil environment, yet the availability of specialized healthcare services can be a significant consideration. The Alzheimer's Score aims to illuminate the practical realities of accessing essential medical care, a critical component of quality of life for those living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer's. This information is vital for informed decision-making when considering a move to this community.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

For residents of Rose Hill, personal vehicle transportation remains a primary mode for accessing healthcare. The proximity of medical facilities and the condition of roadways significantly influence the ease of reaching appointments. The primary route to Wilmington, a hub for specialized care, involves traveling along **NC-24 East** towards Jacksonville and then **US-17 South**. The drive to Wilmington, approximately 70 miles, typically takes around one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic.

Closer options exist, with Duplin General Hospital in Kenansville, roughly 15 miles away, offering a quicker commute. The journey, primarily via **NC-24 West**, takes approximately 20 minutes. This local hospital provides essential services, including primary care, and can be a crucial resource for routine check-ups and initial assessments.

Other regional hospitals, such as New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, are accessible via **NC-24 East** and **US-17 South**. The drive time is longer, but the hospital offers specialized geriatric care and memory clinics. The availability of reliable transportation, coupled with the understanding of drive times, is paramount for planning medical appointments and managing the disease.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Careful Planning**

Public transportation options in Rose Hill are limited, presenting a challenge for those reliant on alternatives to personal vehicles. The Duplin County Transportation Authority provides demand-response services, offering transportation within the county and to neighboring areas. While this service is available, it requires advance booking and may involve longer travel times due to route planning and shared rides.

The availability of accessible transportation, including vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts, is critical for individuals with mobility limitations. When moving to Rose Hill, inquiring about the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is essential. Understanding the scheduling process, the potential for delays, and the overall reliability of the public transit system is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rose Hill area, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. The reliability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, should be carefully considered. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide another option. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and personal care. Researching local medical transport providers and their services, including their experience with Alzheimer's patients, is an essential step.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Duplin County Transportation Authority:** Offers demand-response transportation services within Duplin County.
* **Local Taxi Services:** Availability is limited; research local options.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT) Providers:** Research local providers specializing in medical transportation.
* **Ride-sharing services:** Uber and Lyft are available, but availability may be limited.

**Healthcare Access: Navigating the System**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access encompasses the availability of specialized medical care, including geriatricians, neurologists, and memory care specialists. While Rose Hill itself may not have these specialists, the proximity to Wilmington and Jacksonville offers access to a broader range of healthcare providers.

The ability to navigate the healthcare system, including scheduling appointments, coordinating transportation, and managing medical records, is crucial. Establishing a strong support network, including family, friends, or professional caregivers, can significantly enhance healthcare access. Understanding the local healthcare landscape and building relationships with medical professionals is critical for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Moving to Rose Hill: A Balanced Perspective**

Considering a move to Rose Hill requires a balanced assessment of its benefits and challenges. The town's peaceful atmosphere and strong sense of community can be appealing, but the limited transportation options and the distance to specialized medical care present significant considerations.

Thorough research into transportation options, healthcare providers, and support services is essential. The Alzheimer's Score provides a starting point for this process, highlighting the key factors that influence healthcare access. By carefully weighing these factors, individuals and families can make informed decisions about whether Rose Hill is the right place to call home.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The Alzheimer's Score for Rose Hill underscores the importance of prioritizing healthcare access when making relocation decisions. While the town offers a welcoming environment, the availability and reliability of transportation are crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care. Careful planning, including exploring all available transportation options and establishing a robust support network, is essential for maximizing quality of life for those living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer's in Rose Hill. This analysis provides a framework for navigating the complexities of healthcare access, empowering individuals and families to make informed decisions about their future.