13328, Deansboro, New York Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 13328, Deansboro, New York is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.58 percent of residents in 13328 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Medical Center with a distance of 10.26 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Deansboro (ZIP Code 13328)

Considering a move to Deansboro, New York (ZIP code 13328), and concerned about the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for someone living with Alzheimer's? This analysis provides a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access within and around this rural community. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a detailed perspective to aid informed decision-making.

Deansboro, nestled in the heart of Madison County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, while offering tranquility, often translates to longer travel distances and limited transportation options. This is especially crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience cognitive and physical limitations that significantly impact their ability to travel independently.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Deansboro are US Route 20 and New York State Route 12B. These routes provide the main arteries for accessing healthcare facilities. Driving times are a critical factor in the Alzheimer's Score. The ability to quickly and safely reach medical appointments is paramount.

The nearest major hospital, Community Memorial Hospital in Hamilton, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via NY-12B. This is a manageable distance for many, but consider traffic, weather conditions, and the patient's ability to tolerate travel. For specialized care, the journey to larger hospitals in Utica, such as St. Luke's Hospital or Mohawk Valley Health System, extends the drive time to approximately 45-60 minutes via NY-12B and the NYS Thruway (I-90).

These longer drives necessitate careful planning. The patient's comfort, safety, and the availability of a trusted driver are essential. Consider the potential for increased anxiety and fatigue during longer journeys. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the impact of these factors.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Deansboro are limited. The primary provider is the Madison County Rural Public Transportation System (MCRPTS). While this service offers transportation within the county, its frequency and route coverage are limited, particularly on weekends and evenings.

MCRPTS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the need to pre-book rides and the potential for longer travel times due to multiple stops can pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on a fixed route and schedule may not always align with the unpredictable nature of medical appointments.

The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the limitations of public transportation, emphasizing the need for alternative transportation solutions. The ability to navigate the system, understand schedules, and manage the physical demands of boarding and disembarking buses are all critical considerations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Utica area, but their presence in Deansboro is sporadic. Availability is often dependent on driver proximity and demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is generally unreliable, especially in a rural setting.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with mobility, medication management, and communication with healthcare providers.

In Deansboro, local ambulance services are available for emergencies. NEMT services may be available through private companies or through the patient's insurance plan. Researching and establishing a relationship with a reliable medical transport provider is a crucial component of the Alzheimer's Score.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access encompasses the availability of medical services and the ability to navigate the healthcare system. Deansboro is a small community, and access to specialized care may require travel to larger cities.

Consider the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and support services, such as memory care clinics, geriatricians, and home healthcare providers. The ability to access these services within a reasonable distance is a significant factor in the Alzheimer's Score.

The healthcare system itself can be complex. Individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers may need assistance with appointment scheduling, medication management, insurance claims, and communication with healthcare providers. The availability of care coordination services or a dedicated caregiver is essential.

**Moving to Deansboro: The Alzheimer's Score and Recommendations:**

The Alzheimer's Score for Deansboro, ZIP code 13328, reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility, primarily due to the limitations in transportation options. While the proximity to Community Memorial Hospital is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges.

For individuals considering a move to Deansboro, the following recommendations are critical:

1. **Prioritize a Reliable Transportation Plan:** The most crucial element is establishing a dependable transportation plan. This may involve having a family member or friend available to provide transportation, utilizing medical transport services for appointments, or exploring the possibility of a paid caregiver who can drive.

2. **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify primary care physicians, specialists, and support services in advance. Ensure that the chosen providers are accepting new patients and are located within a reasonable distance.

3. **Explore Care Coordination Services:** Investigate the availability of care coordination services that can assist with appointment scheduling, medication management, and communication with healthcare providers.

4. **Assess Home Healthcare Options:** Determine the availability of home healthcare services, such as skilled nursing care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. These services can provide support and assistance within the comfort of the patient's home.

5. **Plan for Contingencies:** Prepare for unexpected situations, such as inclement weather or the unavailability of a regular driver. Have backup transportation options in place.

6. **Consider Proximity to Support:** Factor in the distance to family members, friends, or support groups who can provide assistance and companionship.

7. **Evaluate Financial Resources:** Ensure that the patient has sufficient financial resources to cover transportation costs, medical expenses, and the cost of care coordination or home healthcare services.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a definitive rating, but rather a framework for evaluating the transportation and healthcare landscape. By carefully considering these factors and implementing a comprehensive plan, individuals with Alzheimer's can successfully navigate the healthcare system in Deansboro and maintain their quality of life. The move to Deansboro can be a fulfilling experience, but thorough planning is essential.