28524, Davis, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28524, Davis, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.71 percent of residents in 28524 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carteret General Hospital with a distance of 17.44 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Davis, NC (ZIP Code 28524)

The allure of coastal living in Davis, North Carolina, with its serene waterways and close-knit community, often draws individuals and families seeking a tranquil retirement. However, for those facing the complexities of Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia, the practicalities of accessing healthcare become paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" for Davis (28524) provides a detailed examination of transportation options and healthcare access, crucial considerations when making decisions about relocating or supporting loved ones.

The primary consideration is the availability of specialized healthcare services and the ease with which they can be reached. While Davis itself offers a sense of seclusion, its proximity to larger towns and cities with comprehensive medical facilities is essential. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, focusing on drive times, public transit, and alternative mobility solutions, providing a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare system.

The most direct route for accessing specialized medical care from Davis often involves a car. The primary artery connecting Davis to the outside world is Highway 70, a major east-west thoroughfare. Driving west on Highway 70 leads to Morehead City and Beaufort, towns with a greater concentration of medical specialists and facilities. The drive to Morehead City, where Carteret Health Care is located, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Beaufort, with its smaller medical presence but charming atmosphere, is slightly closer, about a 15-20 minute drive.

Further afield, the drive to New Bern, a larger city with a more extensive healthcare infrastructure, requires a longer journey. Taking Highway 70 west to Highway 17 South, the trip to CarolinaEast Medical Center in New Bern can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This longer drive time necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's who may experience increased anxiety or disorientation during extended travel.

Public transportation options in Davis are limited. The Carteret County Transportation System (CCTS) provides demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While CCTS offers ADA-accessible vehicles, the service is primarily designed for local trips and may not be ideal for regular appointments in Morehead City or New Bern. Scheduling and coordinating rides can be challenging, particularly for individuals with cognitive impairments who may require assistance. The lack of fixed-route bus service necessitates reliance on other transportation modes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. Securing a ride may require advance planning, and the driver's understanding of the passenger's needs is crucial. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Coastal Medical Transport or similar providers offer door-to-door service, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles, and can transport individuals in wheelchairs or with other mobility needs. These services provide a valuable option for those who cannot drive or lack access to family or friends for transportation. However, medical transport services often come at a higher cost than other options.

Healthcare access is not solely about reaching a doctor's office. It encompasses the availability of support services, such as home healthcare, physical therapy, and mental health counseling. The availability of these services in Davis and the surrounding areas is a critical factor in determining the overall quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Home healthcare agencies can provide in-home assistance with personal care, medication management, and other essential tasks. However, the availability of qualified caregivers and the ability to find a suitable match are critical considerations. Physical therapy and occupational therapy services are also essential for maintaining mobility and function. Mental health counseling, particularly for individuals with dementia and their caregivers, is also important.

Moving to Davis, NC, with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's or caring for a loved one with the disease requires careful consideration of the transportation and healthcare landscape. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or specialized services can present challenges.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, necessitate careful planning and consideration of the individual's needs. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternatives, but these options come with their own set of considerations, including cost and reliability. The availability of support services, such as home healthcare and mental health counseling, is also crucial for ensuring a high quality of life.

Ultimately, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Davis (28524) suggests that while the community offers a desirable lifestyle, careful planning and a proactive approach to transportation and healthcare access are essential for individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. The availability of specialized services and the ease with which they can be reached are critical factors in determining the suitability of Davis as a place to live. The serene coastal environment must be balanced with the practical realities of healthcare access, ensuring the best possible quality of life for those facing the challenges of dementia.