45101, Aberdeen, Ohio Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 45101, Aberdeen, Ohio is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.23 percent of residents in 45101 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Clermont Hospital with a distance of 34.34 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Aberdeen, Ohio (ZIP Code 45101)

The decision to move to a new community, especially for individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, requires meticulous consideration. Healthcare access, a cornerstone of well-being, demands careful scrutiny. This report, the "Alzheimer's Score," analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding Aberdeen, Ohio (ZIP Code 45101), focusing on healthcare access. It assesses the feasibility of reaching essential medical services, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all crucial elements in ensuring quality of life.

Aberdeen, nestled along the Ohio River, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding transportation. The town's relatively rural setting and limited public transit infrastructure necessitate a deeper dive into the available options. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the transportation realities, empowering informed decision-making for those considering a move to Aberdeen.

**Drive Times: The Primary Route to Care**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Accessing healthcare often involves navigating the network of roads that connect Aberdeen to surrounding communities. The primary artery for travel is **U.S. Route 52**, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Driving east on Route 52 leads towards Maysville, Kentucky, where some specialized medical services may be available. Westward, Route 52 connects to larger towns like Ripley and Georgetown, Ohio.

For routine medical appointments, the closest healthcare facilities are likely located in Aberdeen itself or nearby. However, for specialized care, such as neurology or geriatric services, residents may need to travel further afield. **Ohio State Route 41** offers a north-south alternative, potentially leading to facilities in Hillsboro or even Cincinnati, although these destinations involve significantly longer travel times.

The drive time to the nearest hospital, the Adams County Regional Medical Center in Seaman, Ohio, is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This involves traveling on Route 52 west and then south on Route 247. While manageable, this drive can become challenging during inclement weather or for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility**

Public transportation options in Aberdeen and the surrounding area are limited. The primary provider is likely to be the Ohio Valley Regional Transit Authority (OVRTA), which may offer routes connecting Aberdeen to other towns in the region. However, the frequency of service and the areas served are often restricted, particularly in rural areas.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility challenges. OVRTA is mandated to provide accessible services, but it's essential to confirm the availability of accessible routes and the ease of boarding and disembarking at specific stops. Inquiries should be made directly with OVRTA regarding route numbers, schedules, and ADA features.

The lack of robust public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or who have difficulty navigating a car. Reliance on public transit for medical appointments can lead to longer travel times and increased stress, impacting overall healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are increasingly available in many areas, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles. However, their presence in Aberdeen and the surrounding rural areas may be inconsistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, the demand for services, and the location.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and may offer assistance with mobility, such as wheelchair accessibility. Several medical transport brands serve the region, including CareRide and FirstMed Transport.

However, medical transport services typically come with a cost, and the availability of these services can also be limited. It is crucial to investigate the availability, cost, and coverage area of these services before moving to Aberdeen.

**The Alzheimer's Score: Evaluating the Landscape**

The "Alzheimer's Score" considers the following factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, availability and accessibility of public transit, and the presence of ride-share and medical transport options.

In the case of Aberdeen (ZIP Code 45101), the score is influenced by the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. While the drive to the nearest hospital is reasonable, access to specialized care may involve longer travel times.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport:** Variable. The availability of ride-share services may be inconsistent, while medical transport services offer a more reliable, but potentially costly, option.

**Making the Decision: A Holistic Approach**

Moving to a new community is a significant life change, especially for individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. Careful consideration of transportation options and healthcare access is paramount.

Before making a move to Aberdeen, individuals should conduct thorough research. This includes:

* Contacting OVRTA to confirm the availability of accessible public transit routes and schedules.
* Investigating the availability, cost, and coverage area of ride-share services.
* Researching medical transport services and their associated costs.
* Contacting local healthcare providers to determine the availability of specialized services and appointment scheduling procedures.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The transportation landscape in Aberdeen, Ohio, presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. While drive times to basic medical care are manageable, the limited public transit and the potential variability of ride-share services necessitate careful planning. Medical transport services offer a more reliable solution but come with associated costs.

By meticulously evaluating the transportation options and healthcare access, individuals and families can make informed decisions that prioritize quality of life and ensure access to the care needed. This "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a starting point, encouraging a comprehensive approach to evaluating the suitability of Aberdeen as a new home.