28464, Teachey, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28464, Teachey, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.93 percent of residents in 28464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Vidant Duplin Hospital with a distance of 13.24 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Teachey, NC (ZIP Code 28464)

Considering a move to Teachey, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28464)? This analysis offers a "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, a framework to understand the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare, particularly crucial for individuals managing Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive impairments. The score considers transportation options, a vital component in healthcare access, and the specific needs of residents within this rural community.

Teachey, nestled in Duplin County, presents a unique landscape. Its charm lies in its small-town atmosphere and proximity to agricultural lands. However, this rural setting also dictates the availability and accessibility of healthcare services. The "Alzheimer's Score" will evaluate the ease with which residents can reach medical appointments, therapy sessions, and other essential healthcare needs, factoring in the limitations of transportation.

**The Alzheimer's Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access**

The "Alzheimer's Score" isn't a numerical value but a descriptive analysis. It considers the following factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options (both public and private), the ease of navigating these options, and the presence of services specifically designed to support individuals with cognitive impairments. It aims to provide a clear picture of what a person with Alzheimer's or a caregiver can expect when it comes to transportation and healthcare access.

**Driving Distances and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in Teachey is personal vehicles. The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in nearby towns, demanding travel on local roads and highways. The drive to Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, the closest hospital, is approximately 10-15 minutes via NC-24 East. This route, while relatively short, is a single-lane highway, which could present challenges for drivers with cognitive impairments.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Wilmington, approximately an hour and fifteen minutes away via I-40 East and US-117 South. This longer drive requires navigating a major interstate and a busy highway, potentially stressful for individuals with Alzheimer's. The drive to Fayetteville, another potential destination for specialized care, takes about an hour and a half via NC-24 West and US-401 North.

The roadways themselves are generally well-maintained, but the rural setting means limited public transportation options and fewer services catering to individuals with mobility or cognitive challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and consideration of the driver's capabilities and the potential need for a caregiver to accompany them.

**Public Transportation in Duplin County:**

Duplin County offers limited public transportation options. The Duplin County Transportation Department provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is crucial for individuals without access to personal vehicles. However, availability is often limited, and scheduling can be complex, particularly for those with memory issues.

The Duplin County Transportation Department offers door-to-door service, which is crucial for individuals with mobility challenges. They also have vehicles equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for those with disabilities. However, riders must register for the service and schedule rides in advance, requiring planning and coordination.

The lack of fixed-route public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access. Individuals cannot simply walk to a bus stop; they must arrange transportation, which can be a barrier to accessing timely medical care. This scarcity highlights the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wilmington area but have limited presence in Teachey and surrounding areas. Availability is often unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can make it difficult to schedule appointments and access healthcare services.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans and Firstat Nursing Services, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues. However, these services often come at a higher cost and require advance booking. The availability of these services in Teachey is limited, requiring careful research and planning.

**Healthcare Facilities and Services:**

Vidant Duplin Hospital in Kenansville offers primary care, emergency services, and some specialized care. This proximity is a significant advantage for residents of Teachey. However, for specialized care, residents often must travel to Wilmington or Fayetteville.

The availability of specialized Alzheimer's care and support services in the immediate vicinity of Teachey is limited. Residents may need to travel to Wilmington or other larger cities to access memory care clinics, support groups, and specialized therapies. This travel adds to the burden of healthcare access.

**Navigating the Challenges: A Caregiver's Perspective**

For individuals with Alzheimer's, transportation challenges can be amplified. Memory loss, disorientation, and difficulty with navigation can make it difficult to travel independently. Caregivers play a crucial role in ensuring safe and reliable transportation.

Caregivers must plan trips carefully, considering the individual's cognitive abilities, the distance to the healthcare facility, and the availability of transportation options. They may need to arrange for a driver, utilize medical transportation services, or rely on family and friends for assistance.

**Recommendations for Enhancing Healthcare Access:**

To improve healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's in Teachey, several strategies are essential. Expanding public transportation options, including fixed-route services and increased demand-response services, would be a significant step.

Promoting ride-sharing services and medical transportation options would also be beneficial. Partnering with local organizations to provide transportation assistance, such as volunteer driver programs, could also help.

Increasing the availability of specialized Alzheimer's care and support services within the community would reduce the need for long-distance travel. This could include establishing memory care clinics, support groups, and respite care services.

**Moving to Teachey: Considerations for Alzheimer's Care**

Moving to Teachey presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The close-knit community and slower pace of life can offer a supportive environment. However, the limited healthcare access and transportation options require careful planning and consideration.

Before moving, it is crucial to assess the individual's cognitive abilities, transportation needs, and the availability of healthcare services. Researching local transportation options, identifying healthcare providers, and establishing a support network are essential steps.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Teachey, NC (ZIP Code 28464) highlights the importance of proactive planning and the need for creative solutions to ensure healthcare access. While the rural setting presents challenges, the strong community spirit and the potential for growth in healthcare services offer hope for a supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.