28544, Midway Park, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28544, Midway Park, North Carolina is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.10 percent of residents in 28544 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nmc Camp Lejeune with a distance of 2.01 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Midway Park, NC (ZIP Code 28544)

Midway Park, North Carolina, nestled in Onslow County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," focuses on the critical aspect of healthcare access within the 28544 ZIP code, specifically examining transportation options available for those with cognitive impairments. This is paramount, as reliable transportation is the linchpin for maintaining healthcare appointments, accessing vital services, and ultimately, preserving quality of life. For those considering moving to Midway Park, this evaluation offers a crucial understanding of the local landscape.

The geographic layout of Midway Park, while offering a sense of community, does present certain transportation limitations. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are **US Highway 17** and **NC Highway 24**. These roads, while providing direct routes to Jacksonville, the county seat and primary hub for healthcare services, can become congested during peak hours. Navigating these roads, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's, requires careful consideration due to potential disorientation, memory lapses, and difficulties processing complex traffic situations.

Drive times to healthcare facilities in Jacksonville, such as the Onslow Memorial Hospital, vary depending on the location within the 28544 ZIP code and traffic conditions. A trip to Onslow Memorial Hospital from the heart of Midway Park, assuming minimal traffic, typically takes between 10 to 20 minutes via **US Highway 17**. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 30 minutes or more. Other clinics and specialist offices are dispersed throughout Jacksonville, requiring similar travel times. It is essential to factor in these variables when planning appointments and considering the individual's cognitive abilities and potential for anxiety during travel.

Public transportation options in the area are limited, which poses a significant hurdle for those with Alzheimer's. The Jacksonville Transit System (JTS) operates a bus service, but its routes within and around Midway Park are infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. The JTS primarily utilizes **Route 1**, which primarily runs along **US Highway 17**, and **Route 2**, which follows **NC Highway 24**. While these routes offer some connectivity, they may require transfers and extended travel times, which can be overwhelming for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features of the JTS buses are crucial. All JTS buses are equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on fixed routes and schedules can create challenges. Coordinating transportation to and from medical appointments, especially those with specific time constraints, requires meticulous planning and may necessitate assistance from caregivers or family members. The lack of comprehensive public transit severely impacts healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jacksonville area, offering a potentially more flexible transportation option. However, the availability of drivers in Midway Park can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours. Additionally, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, placing a financial burden on individuals and families. The reliance on smartphones and app-based booking systems may also present a challenge for those with cognitive impairments or those unfamiliar with technology.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, including, but not limited to, **First Choice Medical Transportation** and **Coastal Transport**. These services typically require advance booking and may involve pre-authorization from insurance providers. While they offer a more tailored approach to transportation, the cost can be significant, and availability may be limited, especially during peak demand.

Considering these transportation options, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Midway Park (28544) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the presence of highways and ride-sharing services offers some flexibility, the limited public transit, potential for traffic congestion, and the costs associated with specialized transportation services pose significant challenges.

For individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, careful planning is essential. This includes proactively scheduling appointments, considering the time of day and potential traffic, and exploring all available transportation options. The availability of family support, caregiver assistance, and community resources becomes paramount in navigating the complexities of healthcare access.

Moving to Midway Park requires careful consideration of these factors. Prospective residents should thoroughly assess their individual transportation needs and the availability of support systems. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the accessibility of transportation options, and the availability of caregiver assistance are all critical factors to evaluate.

The long-term implications of these transportation limitations extend beyond mere convenience. Difficulty accessing healthcare can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and a decline in overall health and well-being. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain their health and quality of life in Midway Park. The "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a starting point for this crucial assessment, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and support for those living with Alzheimer's in this community.