28460, Sneads Ferry, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28460, Sneads Ferry, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.12 percent of residents in 28460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 28.70 miles from the area.

**Alzheimer's Score: Transportation & Healthcare Access in Sneads Ferry, NC (ZIP Code 28460)**

Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease requires a multi-faceted approach, and transportation is a crucial element. For individuals and families considering a move to Sneads Ferry, North Carolina (ZIP code 28460), understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up assesses the ease of getting to and from medical appointments, pharmacies, and other essential services, painting a picture of the realities of daily life for those managing this challenging condition.

Sneads Ferry, a charming coastal community, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The area's relative isolation, while contributing to its tranquility, can also pose challenges for those with limited mobility or cognitive impairments. The primary mode of transportation is by car, making personal vehicle ownership or access to reliable ride services essential.

**Drive Times & Roadways:**

The major thoroughfare serving Sneads Ferry is **Highway 172**, which connects the town to Jacksonville and the larger regional network. Travel times to healthcare facilities vary depending on location and traffic conditions.

* **Onslow Memorial Hospital** in Jacksonville, the nearest full-service hospital, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via **Highway 172** and **Highway 24**.
* **Coastal Carolina Hospital** in Wilmington, a larger facility with specialized services, is roughly a 1-hour drive via **Highway 172**, **Highway 24**, and **Interstate 140**.
* **Local doctor's offices and clinics** within Sneads Ferry and nearby towns like Holly Ridge are typically accessible within a 15-20 minute drive, often utilizing local roads like **Sneads Ferry Road** and **Old Folkstone Road**.

Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and seasonal tourist influxes, can significantly impact these drive times. Individuals with Alzheimer's may experience increased anxiety or confusion in heavy traffic, making it crucial to plan trips carefully and consider off-peak travel times.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The **Onslow County Transit System** offers some services, but they are not extensive and may not be suitable for individuals with Alzheimer's. Routes and schedules should be carefully researched, as they may not directly serve all healthcare facilities or offer frequent service. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, but advance booking is often required.

The lack of robust public transportation underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions for those who can no longer drive or have limited access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Share Services:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Sneads Ferry area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. Reliability is a key concern. Wait times can be lengthy, and surge pricing may apply during periods of high demand. It is essential to verify service availability and accessibility to healthcare facilities before relying on ride-share services.

**Medical Transportation:**

Several medical transportation services cater to individuals with specific needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs.

* **Coastal Medical Transport** and **CareMed Transport** are a couple of providers that may be available in the area.

These services require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of medical transportation can be significant, so it is essential to explore insurance coverage options and potential financial assistance programs.

**Healthcare Access:**

Healthcare access in Sneads Ferry is a critical factor for individuals with Alzheimer's. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized services, and the quality of care are all important considerations.

* **Primary care physicians:** Several primary care practices are located in Sneads Ferry and the surrounding areas. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician is crucial for ongoing health management and coordination of care.
* **Specialists:** Access to specialists, such as neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists, is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and management of Alzheimer's disease. The availability of these specialists in the immediate area may be limited, necessitating travel to Jacksonville or Wilmington.
* **Memory care clinics:** While Sneads Ferry may not have specialized memory care clinics, support groups and resources for caregivers are available. The Alzheimer's Association and other organizations offer valuable information and support services.

**Moving to Sneads Ferry with Alzheimer's:**

For families considering a move to Sneads Ferry for a loved one with Alzheimer's, careful planning is essential. The transportation and healthcare access challenges must be weighed against the benefits of the community's lifestyle and amenities.

* **Assess transportation needs:** Evaluate the individual's ability to drive, the availability of ride-share services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options.
* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify healthcare providers in the area, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* **Explore support services:** Investigate the availability of support groups, respite care, and other resources for caregivers.
* **Consider housing options:** Choose a home that is safe, accessible, and conducive to the individual's needs.

**Alzheimer's Score Summary:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Sneads Ferry, NC (ZIP code 28460) reflects a mixed picture. While the community offers a pleasant lifestyle, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-share services pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. Healthcare access is reasonable, but access to specialized services may require travel. Families considering a move to Sneads Ferry should carefully assess their transportation needs, research healthcare providers, and explore available support services. Careful planning and proactive measures are essential to ensure the well-being and quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer's in this charming coastal community.