28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.57 percent of residents in 28543 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Brynn Marr Hosp with a distance of 0.94 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tarawa Terrace (ZIP Code 28543)

The diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, or any form of dementia, casts a long shadow, demanding a shift in priorities. One of the most critical considerations becomes **healthcare access**, the ability to reach medical appointments, therapies, and support services reliably and safely. For individuals or families contemplating a move to Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28543), understanding the local **transportation** landscape is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for navigating the healthcare system within this specific geographic area.

Tarawa Terrace, a small community nestled near Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, offers a unique blend of coastal charm and military influence. Its proximity to Jacksonville, the largest city in the area, provides access to a wider range of healthcare options. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present significant hurdles for individuals with cognitive impairments. The "Alzheimer's Score" will assess the accessibility of healthcare, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, ultimately providing a clearer picture for those seeking to make informed decisions about their future.

**Drive Times and Roadways: A Car-Dependent Reality**

For many residents of Tarawa Terrace, the car is king. The primary routes to healthcare facilities in Jacksonville are dominated by personal vehicles, creating a dependence that can become problematic as cognitive abilities decline. The most direct route to Jacksonville involves traveling on US Highway 17, a major thoroughfare that experiences significant traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. This can be stressful for anyone, but particularly challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may struggle with navigation, decision-making, and processing information quickly.

The drive to the main healthcare hub, Onslow Memorial Hospital, via US-17 is typically a 10-15 minute journey under normal traffic conditions. However, this time can easily double during rush hour or due to unforeseen incidents. Alternative routes, such as using NC-24, offer some relief from congestion, but they add mileage and require more complex navigation. For specialized care, such as neurology or geriatric medicine, patients may need to travel further. The drive to specialists in New Bern or Wilmington could easily exceed an hour, adding considerable strain on both the patient and their caregivers.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transit in Onslow County, including the area surrounding Tarawa Terrace, is limited. The Jacksonville Transit System (JTS) offers a bus service, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to the needs of individuals with cognitive impairments. The routes are infrequent, and the stops may be a considerable distance from residences or healthcare facilities. While the JTS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair lifts and priority seating, the overall system is not conducive to easy and independent travel for those with Alzheimer's.

The lack of frequent service and the necessity of transfers further complicate the use of public transit. Individuals with Alzheimer's may struggle with remembering routes, managing schedules, and navigating unfamiliar environments. The waiting times at bus stops, especially in inclement weather, can also be a significant challenge. The JTS does offer a demand-response service, but this requires advance booking and is not always readily available, especially for urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible **transportation** option, but their availability in Tarawa Terrace and Jacksonville can fluctuate. While these services can be a convenient alternative to driving, they are not always reliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles and assistance with mobility devices. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, especially for long-distance travel. The availability of medical **transportation** services in the Tarawa Terrace area is variable, and it's crucial to research and secure these services well in advance of any healthcare needs.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Tarawa Terrace (ZIP Code 28543) highlights the multifaceted challenges of **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services create a complex landscape. The drive times, while seemingly manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic and the patient's cognitive abilities. The lack of robust public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly alternatives.

For families considering **moving to Tarawa Terrace**, careful planning is essential. Assessing the patient's ability to drive safely, exploring available **transportation** options, and establishing a network of support services are crucial steps. This includes identifying reliable caregivers, exploring home healthcare options, and familiarizing oneself with the local healthcare providers.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Tarawa Terrace underscores the importance of proactive planning. Families should prioritize:

* **Careful assessment of driving abilities:** Regularly evaluate the individual's ability to drive safely, considering cognitive decline and physical limitations.
* **Exploring alternative transportation options:** Research and secure reliable **transportation** services, including ride-sharing, medical **transportation**, and caregiver assistance.
* **Building a support network:** Establish a network of caregivers, family members, and healthcare professionals to provide assistance and support.
* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** Consider proximity to healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and support services when choosing a residence.
* **Advocating for improved transportation:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public transit and expanding access to **transportation** services for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Navigating the healthcare system with Alzheimer's requires a proactive and informed approach. While Tarawa Terrace offers a desirable lifestyle, the **transportation** limitations present significant challenges. By carefully assessing these factors and implementing appropriate strategies, families can enhance **healthcare access** and improve the quality of life for individuals **moving to Tarawa Terrace** and facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. The "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a starting point for this critical planning, emphasizing the need for tailored solutions and a commitment to ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's can receive the care and support they deserve.