43716, Beallsville, Ohio Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 43716, Beallsville, Ohio is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.09 percent of residents in 43716 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 12.66 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43716

Imagine a crisp autumn morning in Beallsville, Ohio, the air carrying the scent of fallen leaves and woodsmoke. You're considering a move to this tranquil community, perhaps drawn by its slower pace and the allure of small-town living. But if you or a loved one are navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, a crucial factor in your decision-making process must be healthcare access. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP Code 43716, focusing on the critical aspect of reaching medical care.

Beallsville, nestled in Monroe County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural nature, while offering serenity, necessitates a careful examination of transportation options. The primary consideration, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's, is the ease and reliability of getting to and from medical appointments. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, all crucial elements in the "Alzheimer's Score" equation.

The primary artery connecting Beallsville to the wider world is State Route 7, a two-lane highway that snakes along the Ohio River. Driving to the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics in nearby towns like Woodsfield and Marietta is a significant undertaking. Woodsfield, home to the Monroe County Hospital, is approximately a 20-minute drive via State Route 7 and then onto County Road 11. The drive is generally straightforward, but the winding roads and potential for heavy truck traffic, especially during harvest season, can be challenging for someone with cognitive impairments.

Marietta, a larger city offering a broader range of healthcare options, is a more considerable commute. Reaching Marietta Memorial Hospital, for example, requires a drive of roughly 45-60 minutes. The route typically involves navigating State Route 7, then potentially transitioning to State Route 77 or Interstate 77, depending on the specific destination within Marietta. Interstate 77, while offering a faster route, can be overwhelming due to its high speeds and complex interchanges. The "Alzheimer's Score" must reflect the increased stress and potential for disorientation associated with longer drives and busier roadways.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. The Monroe County Transit Authority provides demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available to residents of Beallsville, but its availability and reliability must be thoroughly investigated. Crucially, inquire about the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of their vehicles. Are they equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users? Do they offer assistance with boarding and disembarking? The "Alzheimer's Score" heavily weighs the availability and accessibility of public transit, recognizing its potential to provide independence while acknowledging its limitations in this context.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Marietta area but their presence in Beallsville is less certain. The "Alzheimer's Score" must account for the potential unreliability of these services in a rural area. Availability may be limited, and wait times could be significant, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the lack of a consistent driver could be disorienting for someone with Alzheimer's.

Medical transportation services are another crucial consideration. Several companies specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of the vehicle and accompanying the patient into the doctor's office. Researching the availability and cost of these services in the Beallsville area is essential. Look for companies with experience transporting individuals with cognitive impairments and those that offer compassionate and patient-centered care.

The "Alzheimer's Score" also needs to factor in the availability of home healthcare services. If the individual requires regular medical attention or assistance with daily living activities, the ability to access in-home care providers is paramount. Research the availability of home health agencies in the area, ensuring they offer services tailored to the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. Consider the proximity of pharmacies and the ease of prescription refills, as medication management is critical.

When moving to Beallsville, the "Alzheimer's Score" will be determined by the cumulative impact of these factors. The longer the drive times, the more limited the public transit options, and the less reliable the ride-sharing services, the lower the score. The availability of medical transport, home healthcare, and accessible pharmacies will increase the score.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for ZIP Code 43716 is likely to be lower than in more urban areas with robust transportation infrastructure and readily available healthcare services. This does not necessarily preclude a move to Beallsville, but it does necessitate careful planning and a proactive approach to healthcare access. It requires a realistic assessment of the challenges and a commitment to finding solutions that prioritize the individual's safety, comfort, and well-being.

Before making a decision, thoroughly investigate the following: the reliability and accessibility of the Monroe County Transit Authority; the availability and cost of medical transport services; the presence of home healthcare agencies; the proximity of pharmacies and their ability to handle prescription refills; and the willingness of family members or friends to assist with transportation.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not just a number; it's a reflection of the commitment to providing the best possible care for someone living with Alzheimer's. It is a reminder that moving to a new community is more than just finding a house; it's about ensuring access to the essential services that support a fulfilling life. The beauty of Beallsville can be enjoyed, but it must be balanced with a practical understanding of the healthcare landscape.