23851, Franklin, Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 23851, Franklin, Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.26 percent of residents in 23851 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southampton Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.52 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23851

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals facing cognitive challenges, demands a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," focuses on ZIP Code 23851 (Franklin, Virginia), evaluating its transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare accessibility. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, aiming to provide a comprehensive picture for residents, particularly those considering moving to Franklin or seeking improved healthcare access.

The primary challenge for residents of 23851 is the relative isolation of Franklin. While a charming town, its location necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare appointments. The primary arteries for transportation are US-58, a major east-west thoroughfare, and US-258, which runs north-south. The drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore heavily dependent on these routes.

For routine appointments, the drive to Franklin Primary Care, located within the town, is typically manageable, often taking less than 10 minutes. However, access to specialized care, such as neurology or cardiology, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk, Virginia, is a common destination, reachable via US-58 East. The drive, without traffic, can take around 30-45 minutes.

Further afield, the drive to larger facilities like Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center in Portsmouth or the larger Sentara Norfolk General Hospital can exceed an hour, particularly during peak traffic hours. These longer commutes pose significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, who may experience increased anxiety, disorientation, and fatigue during extended travel. The Alzheimer's Score considers this factor, emphasizing the importance of minimizing travel time.

Public transportation options in 23851 are limited, which significantly impacts healthcare access. The Franklin Transit System offers a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. While this provides a crucial lifeline for some, it may not be suitable for individuals with cognitive impairments who require immediate or unscheduled transportation. The system's ADA-accessible vehicles are a positive feature, ensuring inclusivity. However, the lack of fixed routes and the need for pre-planning can present barriers.

The absence of a robust public transit system means residents must rely heavily on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services. This underscores the importance of assessing the availability and reliability of these options. The Alzheimer's Score weighs these factors heavily, recognizing that transportation is critical to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Franklin. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of these services is a critical consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's, who require dependable transportation to and from appointments. The Alzheimer's Score assesses the frequency of service and the potential for delays.

Medical transport services are also available. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and medication management. While these services can be a valuable resource, they often come at a higher cost than standard ride-sharing or public transit. The Alzheimer's Score accounts for the cost and availability of these services, understanding that financial constraints can limit access to healthcare.

The physical condition of the roads is also relevant. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting can exacerbate the challenges of transportation, particularly for individuals with mobility issues. The Alzheimer's Score considers the road conditions, recognizing that a smooth and safe ride is essential for the well-being of individuals with cognitive impairments.

The availability of caregiver support is another critical factor. Individuals with Alzheimer's often require assistance with transportation, either from a family member, a friend, or a professional caregiver. The Alzheimer's Score assesses the availability of these support systems, recognizing that they play a vital role in facilitating healthcare access.

When considering moving to Franklin, potential residents should meticulously evaluate their transportation needs. They should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends who can provide transportation, and the accessibility of public transit and ride-sharing services. A thorough assessment of these factors is crucial for ensuring that healthcare needs can be met effectively.

The Alzheimer's Score for 23851 is therefore a composite measure. It considers drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit and ride-sharing services, the cost of medical transport, the road conditions, and the availability of caregiver support. A high score indicates excellent healthcare access, while a low score suggests significant challenges.

In the case of 23851, the Alzheimer's Score is moderate. While Franklin offers some local healthcare options, access to specialized care requires longer drives. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. However, the presence of medical transport services and the potential for caregiver support can mitigate some of these difficulties.

For individuals with Alzheimer's disease or their caregivers, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. Before making a move to Franklin, a careful evaluation of these factors is essential. This ensures that healthcare access is not a barrier to quality of life. The Alzheimer's Score serves as a tool to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The future of healthcare access in 23851 may depend on advancements in transportation. Increased investment in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the development of innovative transportation solutions could significantly improve healthcare access for all residents, especially those with cognitive impairments. The Alzheimer's Score will continue to evolve, reflecting these changes and providing a valuable resource for residents and healthcare providers alike.