38118, Memphis, Tennessee Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 38118, Memphis, Tennessee is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.50 percent of residents in 38118 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Delta Specialty Hospital with a distance of 1.37 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 38118

The journey through Alzheimer's disease is fraught with challenges, and ensuring reliable **transportation** to **healthcare** appointments is paramount. This analysis, tailored to the 38118 ZIP code in Memphis, Tennessee, provides an Alzheimer's Score, assessing the accessibility of medical facilities, considering the unique needs of individuals living with cognitive decline. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for families considering **moving to Memphis** or currently residing in this area.

The 38118 ZIP code, encompassing a portion of East Memphis, offers a blend of residential neighborhoods and commercial areas. The presence of major thoroughfares like I-240, Poplar Avenue, and Walnut Grove Road significantly impacts **healthcare access**. However, navigating these roads can be daunting for individuals with Alzheimer's, especially during peak hours. The Alzheimer's Score considers these factors, providing a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape.

Driving times are a critical element. From the heart of 38118, reaching major medical centers like Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis via I-240 typically takes 10-15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. However, rush hour can extend this to 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, utilizing Poplar Avenue can be quicker, but the numerous traffic lights and complex intersections present their own challenges. The Alzheimer's Score accounts for these variables, emphasizing the need for careful planning and potentially, the avoidance of peak travel times.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit becomes essential. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) provides bus service throughout the city. Several routes, including the 42 (Poplar), 50 (Summer), and 53 (White Station), traverse the 38118 area, offering access to various medical facilities. The 42, for instance, connects to Baptist Hospital, while the 50 and 53 offer access to clinics along Summer Avenue and Poplar Avenue, respectively.

MATA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliability of bus schedules and the potential for long wait times can be problematic for those with Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Score weighs these considerations, acknowledging the limitations of public transit for individuals requiring consistent and timely medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for navigating bus routes or driving. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the potential for unfamiliar drivers and the need for clear communication can pose challenges for individuals with cognitive impairments. The Alzheimer's Score incorporates these aspects, highlighting the need for careful consideration of both the advantages and disadvantages of ride-sharing.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like CareRide and SeniorCare offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers experienced in assisting individuals with disabilities. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of these services and their associated costs vary. The Alzheimer's Score assesses the accessibility and affordability of medical transport options, recognizing their importance in providing reliable **healthcare access**.

The Alzheimer's Score also considers the proximity of medical facilities within the 38118 ZIP code. Several clinics and physician offices are located within the area, reducing the need for long-distance travel. However, the availability of specialized geriatric care and memory care specialists may require travel to larger medical centers. The Alzheimer's Score takes into account the concentration of medical resources, emphasizing the importance of choosing a location that minimizes travel distances.

The assessment also considers the potential for traffic congestion. The intersection of Poplar Avenue and I-240 is notorious for traffic delays, particularly during rush hour. The Alzheimer's Score emphasizes the importance of planning trips around peak travel times and utilizing alternative routes when possible. This consideration is critical for ensuring timely arrival at medical appointments and minimizing stress for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Furthermore, the Alzheimer's Score acknowledges the importance of caregiver support. The availability of family members or professional caregivers who can provide transportation assistance significantly improves **healthcare access**. The score considers the availability of caregiver resources and support networks within the 38118 community.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for the 38118 ZIP code reflects a complex interplay of factors influencing **healthcare access**. While the area benefits from proximity to major medical centers and the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services, challenges remain. Traffic congestion, the cost of ride-sharing, and the limitations of public transit for individuals with cognitive impairments must be carefully considered. By evaluating these factors, families considering **moving to Memphis** or currently residing in 38118 can make informed decisions, ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's receive the necessary medical care with minimal stress and maximum safety. The key is to proactively plan for **transportation** needs, leveraging available resources and seeking support when needed.