28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.15 percent of residents in 28468 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center with a distance of 16.90 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sunset Beach (ZIP Code 28468)

Planning a move, especially with considerations for Alzheimer's, requires meticulous attention to detail. This assessment focuses on healthcare access within and around Sunset Beach, North Carolina (ZIP code 28468), evaluating transportation options crucial for maintaining quality of life. Understanding these complexities is vital for families considering this coastal haven, ensuring the individual’s needs are met while navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's.

The core of this analysis centers on the crucial link between transportation and healthcare access. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and support services is paramount. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation options, providing a comprehensive view of the area's suitability for individuals managing Alzheimer's. The goal is to illuminate the practical realities of accessing healthcare, offering a realistic perspective for informed decision-making.

Sunset Beach, a charming community, presents unique transportation considerations. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, its relatively isolated location necessitates careful planning regarding healthcare access. This analysis will explore the practicalities of navigating the region, providing a clear picture of the transportation landscape.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary artery connecting Sunset Beach to broader healthcare resources is **Highway 17**, a major thoroughfare running north and south. Heading north on Highway 17 provides access to Wilmington, a regional hub with extensive medical facilities. The drive to New Hanover Regional Medical Center, a major hospital, typically takes around an hour, depending on traffic. This is a significant factor, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety during long drives.

Southbound on Highway 17 leads towards Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offering another cluster of healthcare options. However, this direction involves crossing state lines, which can add complexities to insurance and healthcare coverage. The drive to major hospitals in Myrtle Beach, such as Grand Strand Medical Center, is roughly 45 minutes to an hour, again, traffic-dependent.

Within Sunset Beach itself, local roads like **Sunset Boulevard** and **Main Street** provide access to local businesses and services. These roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic can increase during peak seasons, potentially impacting appointment punctuality. The ability to navigate these roads safely and efficiently is critical.

**Public Transit and Accessibility:**

Public transportation options in the Sunset Beach area are limited. The Brunswick County Transportation System (BCTS) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system, while available, may not be ideal for individuals with Alzheimer's who require spontaneous trips or have unpredictable schedules.

BCTS vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and ramps, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility impairments. However, the reliance on pre-booked appointments and the potential for longer travel times necessitate careful planning. The availability of public transit, while present, does not offer the same level of convenience as in more urban environments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Sunset Beach area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, provide another option. Several companies, such as **Care Ride** and **First Choice Medical Transportation**, operate in the region. These services offer non-emergency medical transport, often with trained staff and specialized vehicles. This can be a valuable resource, especially for individuals who are unable to drive or require assistance during travel. However, availability and cost vary, so thorough research is essential.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

Sunset Beach offers some local healthcare options, including primary care physicians and urgent care clinics. However, specialized care, such as neurology or geriatric medicine, often requires travel to Wilmington or Myrtle Beach. This necessitates careful consideration of drive times and transportation options.

The availability of home healthcare services is also a crucial factor. Agencies like **Lower Cape Fear LifeCare** and **Coastal Home Care** offer in-home care, providing support and assistance with daily living activities. This can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's, allowing them to remain in their homes longer.

**Evaluating the Alzheimer's Score:**

The Alzheimer's Score for Sunset Beach (28468) reflects the interplay of these factors. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, healthcare access presents challenges. The reliance on driving, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing necessitate careful planning and proactive measures.

The score would be impacted by the distance to specialized medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the presence of support services. A higher score would indicate greater ease of access, while a lower score would highlight potential difficulties. The score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic assessment that considers the individual's needs and circumstances.

**Recommendations for Moving to Sunset Beach:**

For families considering a move to Sunset Beach with an individual managing Alzheimer's, several recommendations are essential. First, thoroughly research available healthcare providers, including specialists, and assess their proximity and accessibility. Second, evaluate transportation options, considering the individual's ability to drive, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation.

Third, explore the availability of home healthcare services and support groups. Fourth, consider the proximity to family and friends who can provide assistance. Finally, proactively plan for potential emergencies, including developing a contingency plan for transportation and healthcare access during inclement weather or unexpected events.

Moving to Sunset Beach can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and a realistic understanding of the healthcare landscape. By proactively addressing transportation and healthcare access challenges, families can ensure that the individual with Alzheimer's receives the necessary care and support while enjoying the beauty and tranquility of this coastal community. This thoughtful approach is critical to ensuring a successful and fulfilling transition.