23889, Warfield, Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 23889, Warfield, Virginia is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

15.58 percent of residents in 23889 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bon Secours Southern Virginia Medical Center with a distance of 18.47 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23889

Considering a move to the charming community of Warfield, Virginia, within ZIP code 23889? This assessment provides a detailed "Alzheimer's Score" analysis, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access, particularly for individuals navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. Transportation options, drive times, and the availability of specialized services are all meticulously examined, offering a comprehensive understanding of the practicalities of daily life and the potential hurdles faced by those seeking consistent medical care.

The core of this analysis revolves around the concept of "healthcare access," a multifaceted term that encompasses not just the presence of medical facilities but also the ease with which they can be reached. This is especially vital for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience cognitive decline, mobility issues, and reliance on caregivers. Therefore, a smooth and reliable transportation infrastructure is paramount, making this assessment a crucial tool for informed decision-making.

Warfield, nestled in the heart of Brunswick County, offers a tranquil setting. However, its rural character presents unique challenges in terms of transportation and healthcare access. The nearest major medical facilities are located in South Hill, Emporia, and Petersburg, requiring careful consideration of travel times and available modes of transport. The "Alzheimer's Score" will reflect the degree of difficulty in reaching these facilities, factoring in factors like distance, road conditions, public transit options, and the availability of specialized transportation services.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in this area. From Warfield, the journey to the Community Memorial Hospital in South Hill, the closest major hospital, typically involves a drive along US-58, a major east-west highway. This drive, usually taking around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic and the specific location within Warfield, offers a relatively straightforward route. However, the US-58 corridor can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times and adding stress for individuals with cognitive impairments.

For specialized care, the journey to larger hospitals in Emporia or Petersburg becomes necessary. Traveling to Southern Virginia Regional Medical Center in Emporia involves a drive along US-1, another significant north-south artery. This route, spanning approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the exact starting point in Warfield, presents a longer commute. The roads are generally well-maintained, but the distance necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential fatigue for the driver or the individual with Alzheimer's.

Reaching the larger hospitals in Petersburg, such as the Bon Secours Southside Medical Center, requires a drive of approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. This journey usually involves taking US-1 to I-85 North and then onto I-95 North. While the interstate highways offer a faster route, navigating these complex roadways can be challenging for those with cognitive impairments, necessitating the presence of a reliable caregiver or driver familiar with the route.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 23889 are limited. Brunswick County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their condition. The absence of fixed-route buses or other forms of public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or specialized medical transportation.

While public transportation is limited, Brunswick County does offer a demand-response service through the Virginia Department of Rail and Public TransportationPublic Transportation. This service, known as "The Tide," provides transportation to medical appointments, shopping, and other essential destinations. However, it requires advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly for appointments scheduled during peak hours or in areas with high demand. The availability and reliability of this service are crucial factors in the "Alzheimer's Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Warfield area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas, and wait times may be longer than in urban centers. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor for individuals with limited incomes, potentially impacting their ability to access necessary healthcare.

Specialized medical transportation services cater specifically to the needs of individuals with disabilities and medical conditions, including those with Alzheimer's. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assistance with mobility, and trained staff familiar with the specific needs of their clients. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including First Transit, and others. These services are valuable for individuals who cannot drive or require assistance with their transportation. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, especially for appointments scheduled on short notice.

The "Alzheimer's Score" considers the availability of these specialized services and their impact on healthcare access. Factors such as the cost of these services, the distance to medical facilities, and the availability of trained staff are all carefully evaluated. The score will reflect the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, considering the transportation options available and the specific needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

When considering moving to Warfield, it's crucial to evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities and the available transportation options. The "Alzheimer's Score" provides a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in this rural setting. It highlights the importance of careful planning, the potential reliance on caregivers, and the need for proactive measures to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's can receive the medical care they need.

The proximity of family and caregivers is a critical factor. Having a support system that can provide transportation, assistance with appointments, and emotional support can significantly improve healthcare access. This support network is particularly crucial in areas with limited public transportation options and longer travel times to medical facilities.

Ultimately, the "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the suitability of Warfield for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. It underscores the importance of considering transportation infrastructure, the availability of specialized services, and the presence of a strong support system when making decisions about healthcare access. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed choices that prioritize their health and well-being.