Health Scores Near 28631, Grassy Creek, North Carolina
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The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28631, Grassy Creek, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
74.88 percent of residents in 28631 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashe Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.29 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 28631, Grassy Creek, North Carolina
| Alzheimers Score | 90 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 86 |
| Provider Score | 38 |
| Hospital Score | 72 |
| Travel Score | 64 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 28631 | Grassy Creek | North Carolina |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.14 |
| 1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 19.36 |
| 2 Cars | 35.31 | 35.31 | 40.83 |
| 3 or More Cars | 64.69 | 64.69 | 37.67 |
Vehicular Access in 28631, Grassy Creek, North Carolina
## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28631
This analysis provides a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" for healthcare accessibility within ZIP Code 28631, focusing on the challenges faced by individuals with cognitive impairments when navigating transportation options. This score, though not a formal medical assessment, considers factors crucial for safe and reliable healthcare access, particularly for those with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias. We'll examine drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, highlighting potential difficulties and suggesting mitigation strategies. The goal is to offer a realistic picture for those considering moving to Grassy Creek or already residing in the area, ensuring their healthcare needs are met.
The primary consideration for residents of 28631 is the geographic isolation and the limited availability of alternative transportation modes. Grassy Creek, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers stunning natural beauty, but the terrain and sparse population density create significant transportation hurdles. This directly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's who may experience disorientation, memory loss, and impaired judgment, making independent travel challenging.
**Driving Times and Road Conditions:**
The predominant mode of transportation in 28631 is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in our Alzheimer's Score. The nearest hospital, **Wilkes Medical Center** in North Wilkesboro, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. This journey primarily involves navigating **NC-18** and **US-421**.
NC-18, a winding two-lane road, can be challenging for drivers with cognitive impairments. The curves, elevation changes, and potential for wildlife encounters demand constant attention. US-421, a more major highway, offers a faster route but often experiences higher traffic volumes, particularly during peak hours. This can increase stress and confusion for individuals with Alzheimer's.
Accessing specialized medical care, such as neurology or geriatric psychiatry, may necessitate travel to larger cities like Winston-Salem or Charlotte. These journeys, undertaken on **US-421**, **I-77**, and **I-40**, can easily extend to 1.5 to 2 hours or more, significantly impacting the individual's ability to maintain consistent healthcare appointments. The long drive times, coupled with the potential for getting lost or disoriented, can be overwhelming.
**Public Transportation Limitations:**
Public transportation options in 28631 are severely limited. There is no dedicated public bus system serving the immediate area. The absence of public transit poses a major obstacle for individuals who can no longer drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.
While some regional transportation services may offer limited demand-response transportation, these options often require advance booking, have restricted operating hours, and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the lack of ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and lifts, on available vehicles could be a major issue for those with mobility issues, a common co-morbidity with Alzheimer's.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally available in the area, but their reliability can be inconsistent. Availability depends on driver density, which is often lower in rural areas like 28631. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with disabilities or medical needs, are a more viable option. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist passengers. However, the cost of NEMT can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments.
**Medical Transport Brands:**
Several medical transport brands provide services in the region. **Care Ride** and **Medicaid Transportation** are two examples. These services usually require pre-booking and are often covered by Medicaid or private insurance, depending on the individual's eligibility. It's crucial to investigate insurance coverage and eligibility requirements before relying on these services.
**Mitigation Strategies and Recommendations:**
Given the transportation challenges, several strategies can improve healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's in 28631.
* **Caregiver Support:** Having a dedicated caregiver, family member, or professional aide is crucial. The caregiver can assist with transportation, appointment scheduling, and medication management.
* **Appointment Planning:** Schedule appointments strategically, considering travel times and potential delays. Consolidate appointments whenever possible to minimize travel.
* **Transportation Planning:** Explore all available transportation options, including ride-sharing, medical transportation, and volunteer driver programs. Book services well in advance.
* **Home Healthcare:** Consider home healthcare services, such as in-home nursing or physical therapy, to reduce the need for frequent travel.
* **Telehealth:** Utilize telehealth services for routine check-ups and consultations, reducing the need for in-person visits.
* **Community Resources:** Explore local community resources, such as the Alzheimer's Association or local senior centers, for support and assistance with transportation.
* **Vehicle Modifications:** For those who can still drive, consider vehicle modifications, such as adaptive driving aids, to enhance safety and independence.
**Alzheimer's Score Assessment:**
Based on the factors discussed, the Alzheimer's Score for healthcare access in 28631 is considered **Moderate to High Risk**. The limited public transportation, long drive times, and reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals with cognitive impairments. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, impacting the individual's health and well-being.
Moving to Grassy Creek or residing in the area with an Alzheimer's diagnosis requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Prioritizing caregiver support, planning appointments strategically, and exploring all available transportation options are essential for ensuring access to timely and appropriate healthcare. The individual and their support network must proactively address these transportation barriers to maintain the highest possible quality of life.
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