44427, Kensington, Ohio Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 44427, Kensington, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.31 percent of residents in 44427 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.43 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Kensington, OH (ZIP Code 44427)

The quaint village of Kensington, Ohio, nestled in the rolling hills of Columbiana County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," evaluates the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 44427, focusing on the practicalities of reaching vital medical appointments. We'll explore the drive times, public transit options, and available ride-sharing and medical transport services, all crucial elements in ensuring accessible healthcare for those affected by this debilitating illness. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone considering moving to Kensington or supporting a loved one already residing there.

The most immediate concern is the distance to specialized medical care. While Kensington itself offers limited healthcare facilities, the nearest comprehensive medical centers are located in surrounding towns and cities. The primary route for many residents involves traveling via **State Route 172**, a winding two-lane road that can be challenging, especially during inclement weather. The drive to Alliance Community Hospital, approximately 15 miles away, typically takes around 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey requires careful planning, considering the potential for cognitive challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's.

Further afield, the Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital in Canton, a regional center for specialized care, is about 30 miles away. This trip, primarily via **State Route 183** and **U.S. Route 62**, can take between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic. This longer commute necessitates careful consideration of the patient's endurance and the need for frequent breaks. The route also involves navigating potentially confusing intersections and highway interchanges, adding another layer of complexity.

For those seeking specialized neurological care, the University Hospitals system in Cleveland, approximately 70 miles away, becomes a necessity. The drive, primarily on **U.S. Route 62** to **U.S. Route 224** then **Interstate 77** can easily consume 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic congestion. This extended travel time demands meticulous planning, including pre-arranging comfortable seating, ensuring hydration, and considering the need for restroom stops. This long journey underscores the critical importance of exploring all transportation options.

Public transportation options in and around Kensington are limited. The Columbiana County Transit (CCT) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While CCT does provide transportation within the county, availability and scheduling can be restrictive, especially for appointments with specific time constraints. The CCT fleet is equipped with ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, navigating the scheduling process, especially for those with cognitive impairments, requires significant support from family members or caregivers.

The lack of readily available public transportation highlights the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation services. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Kensington. The cost of these services can also accumulate rapidly, making them a potentially expensive option for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, offer another alternative. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist with mobility and provide basic medical support. However, the availability of medical transport services in the Kensington area should be carefully researched. Pricing can vary significantly, and it is essential to confirm insurance coverage and the specific services offered.

When considering moving to Kensington, or supporting a loved one already there, the limitations in healthcare access, particularly concerning transportation, must be acknowledged. The Alzheimer's Score for this area reflects the challenges associated with accessing specialized medical care. The drive times, the limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services contribute to a complex transportation landscape.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the ability to maintain regular medical appointments is crucial for managing the disease and maintaining quality of life. The need for frequent appointments with neurologists, therapists, and other specialists necessitates a reliable and accessible transportation system. This is where the Alzheimer's Score comes into play. It is a tool to assess and understand the accessibility of healthcare.

The score, based on the drive times, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, helps to inform the decision-making process. It underscores the importance of carefully considering the transportation challenges and the need for proactive planning. This planning should include establishing a network of support, including family members, caregivers, and potential transportation providers.

The goal is to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's in Kensington can access the healthcare they need, regardless of their ability to drive or the availability of public transit. This requires a collaborative effort involving family members, caregivers, healthcare providers, and community resources. It also highlights the need for continued advocacy for improved transportation options and increased access to healthcare services in rural communities.

The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, is not merely a numerical assessment; it is a call to action. It is a reminder that ensuring healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's requires a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and a commitment to finding solutions that meet their unique needs. It is a testament to the importance of community and the power of proactive planning in navigating the challenges of this devastating disease.