28574, Richlands, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28574, Richlands, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.42 percent of residents in 28574 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Onslow Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.33 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Richlands, NC (ZIP Code 28574)

The decision to relocate, particularly for individuals facing cognitive challenges like Alzheimer's disease, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of local resources. This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare in Richlands, North Carolina (ZIP code 28574), with a focus on transportation options, a critical component of healthcare access. We’ll consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture for those considering moving to Richlands.

Richlands, a town nestled in Onslow County, presents both opportunities and challenges for those requiring regular healthcare visits. The rural nature of the area significantly impacts transportation choices, demanding a careful evaluation of available options. The goal is to determine the ease with which individuals can reach crucial medical appointments, a vital consideration when assessing quality of life and support systems.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation in Richlands is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The success of healthcare access hinges on the ability to drive or be driven to appointments. Understanding the road network and estimated travel times to healthcare facilities is paramount. The town's central location means many medical services are concentrated in Jacksonville, the county seat, or in nearby towns like New Bern.

From Richlands, the most direct route to Jacksonville often involves taking US Highway 258 South. This route provides a relatively straightforward drive, typically taking around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Jacksonville. This drive, while manageable for many, can be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's, especially if they are no longer able to drive. The road itself is generally well-maintained, but the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, should be considered.

Another option involves utilizing NC Highway 53 East towards Jacksonville. This route offers an alternative, but it may take slightly longer, potentially adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the journey. The choice between these routes often depends on the specific location of the healthcare provider and the prevailing traffic conditions.

For access to medical facilities in New Bern, the drive is considerably longer. The most direct route involves taking US Highway 17 North, a major thoroughfare. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning and consideration of the individual's stamina and cognitive abilities.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in Richlands and the surrounding area is limited. The Onslow County Transit System (OCTS) provides a crucial service, but it is not a comprehensive network. OCTS primarily offers demand-response transportation, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This system's availability is vital, but its limitations are significant.

The OCTS operates on a fixed-route system with limited hours of operation. This means that access to healthcare appointments is subject to the availability of the bus, which may not always align with appointment schedules. Scheduling and coordination are crucial, and the need for advanced planning adds complexity, especially for individuals with cognitive impairments.

The OCTS does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is a critical feature for individuals with mobility limitations. These vehicles are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring that individuals in wheelchairs or with other mobility aids can access the service. However, the availability of these vehicles is subject to demand, and booking in advance is essential.

The routes themselves are not always direct to healthcare facilities. Riders may need to transfer buses or rely on a combination of public transit and other modes of transportation to reach their destinations. This adds complexity and potential for confusion, which can be particularly challenging for those with Alzheimer's.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Richlands, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Reliance on ride-sharing requires access to a smartphone and the ability to navigate the app, which may pose challenges for some individuals with Alzheimer's.

Medical transport services provide a specialized option for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and other needs. Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including Firstat Nursing Services, and Liberty HomeCare.

These services can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's, offering a safe and reliable means of transportation. However, they often come at a higher cost than other options, and availability may be limited. It's essential to research and compare different providers to find the best fit for the individual's needs and budget.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View:**

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for healthcare access in Richlands, NC (28574) reflects a mixed picture. While personal vehicles offer the most direct access, the limitations of public transit, the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport necessitate careful planning.

The decision to move to Richlands should be weighed carefully, considering the individual's ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential need for professional medical transport services. The proximity of healthcare facilities in Jacksonville is a positive factor, but the longer travel times to New Bern require careful consideration.

The key to successful healthcare access lies in proactive planning, utilizing all available resources, and building a strong support network. This includes familiarizing oneself with the road network, understanding the limitations of public transit, and researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The goal is to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain their independence, receive the necessary medical care, and enjoy a high quality of life in their new community. This requires a comprehensive understanding of the local transportation landscape and a commitment to finding the most effective and supportive solutions.