44441, Negley, Ohio Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 44441, Negley, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.14 percent of residents in 44441 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 16.42 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Negley, Ohio (ZIP Code 44441)

The tranquil landscapes of Negley, Ohio, a community nestled in the heart of Columbiana County, offer a peaceful setting for life. However, for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease, the serenity of rural living must be balanced with the practicalities of healthcare access. This Alzheimer's Score assesses the transportation infrastructure within ZIP code 44441, providing insights into the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical appointments and support services. This is particularly crucial when considering a move to Negley, or for those already residing there, as transportation limitations can significantly impact quality of life for those with cognitive impairments.

The core of this assessment revolves around understanding the available **transportation** options. Negley, being a rural area, presents unique challenges. While the community offers a sense of isolation, the need for consistent and reliable access to healthcare remains paramount. We'll explore the drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport possibilities to determine the overall accessibility of healthcare within and around ZIP code 44441.

**Driving Times and Road Conditions:**

For those who drive, the primary arteries connecting Negley to healthcare facilities are State Route 11 and State Route 170. Traveling south on State Route 11 provides access to East Liverpool, approximately a 20-minute drive, where East Liverpool City Hospital offers a range of medical services. The drive is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can impact travel times and road safety. State Route 170 heads west, connecting Negley to larger communities like Salem, approximately a 30-minute drive, where Salem Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive care.

The roads are generally well-maintained, but it's crucial to consider the potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or in the event of accidents. For individuals with Alzheimer's, the stress of navigating unfamiliar routes or dealing with heavy traffic can be overwhelming. Therefore, planning and preparation, including pre-programmed GPS devices and the presence of a caregiver, are essential for safe and stress-free travel. Road conditions, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also pose challenges for those with mobility issues, further impacting the feasibility of driving.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options in Negley are extremely limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive bus system. This lack of public **transportation** significantly restricts **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or who are unable to secure alternative means of travel. This is a critical factor to consider when evaluating the suitability of Negley for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on other options, such as family, friends, or specialized medical **transportation** services. This reliance can create logistical challenges and potentially limit access to timely medical care. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any available public transit options further exacerbates the difficulties for those with mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Columbiana County area, but their presence in Negley itself can be sporadic. Availability depends on driver density, and wait times can vary significantly. This unreliability makes ride-sharing a less-than-ideal option for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Some of the companies providing NEMT in the vicinity include First Transit and MedStar. However, it is crucial to investigate the specific services offered by each provider, including their coverage area, cost, and ability to accommodate the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. This includes whether they have trained staff to handle individuals with cognitive impairments and the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

**Healthcare Access and Support Services:**

Beyond the physical **transportation** challenges, **healthcare access** in Negley also involves understanding the availability of specialized Alzheimer's care. While Negley itself may not have dedicated memory care facilities, surrounding communities, such as East Liverpool and Salem, offer assisted living facilities and skilled nursing homes with memory care units.

Accessing these facilities requires reliable **transportation**. Additionally, support services, such as support groups for caregivers, are essential for families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's. These services may be available in neighboring towns, again necessitating reliable **transportation**. This underscores the importance of careful planning and coordination of **transportation** arrangements to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers can access the necessary support.

**Alzheimer's Score and Considerations for Moving to Negley:**

The Alzheimer's Score for Negley, Ohio (44441) is influenced by the limited public transit, the dependence on private vehicles or ride-sharing, and the availability of specialized medical **transportation** services. The score is moderate, with significant challenges related to **transportation** accessibility.

For those considering **moving to Negley**, the following factors must be carefully considered:

* **Driving Ability:** Assess the individual's ability to drive safely and independently.
* **Caregiver Support:** Ensure the availability of a caregiver who can provide **transportation** and support.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Research and secure reliable medical **transportation** services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Consider the distance to healthcare facilities and support services.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Develop a plan for emergency **transportation** and medical care.

The decision to move to Negley should be made with a thorough understanding of the **transportation** challenges and a proactive plan to ensure **healthcare access**. While Negley offers a peaceful environment, the realities of rural living and the complexities of Alzheimer's disease require careful planning and a commitment to ensuring the well-being of those affected.