24245, Dungannon, Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24245, Dungannon, Virginia is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

17.42 percent of residents in 24245 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lonesome Pine Hospital with a distance of 16.13 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dungannon, VA (ZIP Code 24245)

The decision to move, especially when considering the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, demands a meticulous evaluation of healthcare access. This write-up, an "Alzheimer's Score" for Dungannon, Virginia (ZIP Code 24245), focuses on transportation options to and from healthcare facilities, a critical factor in ensuring the well-being of individuals with cognitive impairments. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for families contemplating a move to this rural community.

Dungannon, nestled in the heart of Scott County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding transportation and healthcare access. Its rural character, while offering tranquility, often translates to limited public transportation and longer travel times to medical appointments. Understanding these nuances is paramount when planning for the needs of someone living with Alzheimer's.

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

For most residents of Dungannon, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The primary artery connecting Dungannon to larger towns and healthcare facilities is **US Route 58**. This two-lane highway, while scenic, can experience delays, especially during peak hours or due to inclement weather. Traveling east on US-58 will eventually lead to **Weber City**, a town with some medical services.

The drive to **Holston Valley Medical Center** in Kingsport, Tennessee, a regional healthcare hub, is approximately a 45-minute to an hour's drive, depending on traffic and the specific location within Dungannon. This journey primarily involves navigating US-58 East, merging onto **Interstate 26 East** for a portion of the trip. The interstate offers a faster, more direct route, but can be subject to congestion.

Smaller clinics and physician's offices may be found in nearby towns like **Gate City** and **Clinchport**, which are significantly closer. Gate City, accessible via US-58 West, offers a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes. Clinchport, also accessible via US-58 West, is a similar distance. These shorter drives can be crucial for those with Alzheimer's, minimizing travel time and reducing potential anxiety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Dungannon is severely limited. Scott County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. The availability of fixed-route bus services is virtually nonexistent. This absence poses a significant hurdle for individuals who cannot drive or who are no longer safe to operate a vehicle.

While there is no fixed-route service, the **Scott County Public Transportation** may offer demand-response services, which require advanced booking. These services often cater to seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, availability is limited, and the service may not be able to accommodate all medical appointments due to scheduling constraints and geographic limitations. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these services should be confirmed before relying on them.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in rural areas like Dungannon. While they may be available, their reliability and availability are not guaranteed. Wait times can be long, and the cost can be prohibitive, especially for frequent medical appointments. This is an area where the Alzheimer's Score would be low.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide transportation for individuals with medical needs, including those with Alzheimer's. They often have trained staff and vehicles equipped to handle the specific requirements of patients with cognitive impairments.

Several medical transport providers may serve the Dungannon area, including **Med-Trans Corporation** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**. These companies offer non-emergency medical transportation, as well as emergency services. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage. It is crucial to investigate the coverage and the specific services offered by each provider.

**Healthcare Access: A Crucial Consideration**

Healthcare access in Dungannon is influenced by transportation limitations. While the area has some local medical facilities, the availability of specialized care, particularly for Alzheimer's, may necessitate travel to larger regional centers.

**Holston Valley Medical Center** in Kingsport, Tennessee, offers a wider range of medical specialists and services, including neurology and geriatric care. The drive time, however, is a significant factor, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The availability of home healthcare services is also a critical consideration. Home healthcare agencies can provide in-home assistance with medication management, personal care, and other support services. These services can help individuals with Alzheimer's remain in their homes longer, reducing the need for frequent travel to medical appointments.

**Moving to Dungannon: Weighing the Factors**

Moving to Dungannon with a loved one living with Alzheimer's requires careful consideration of the transportation and healthcare access challenges. The Alzheimer's Score for this area would likely be moderate, reflecting the limited public transportation, potential reliance on personal vehicles, and the need for longer drives to access specialized medical care.

Families considering a move to Dungannon should thoroughly research the availability of medical transport services, home healthcare agencies, and the specific healthcare needs of their loved one. They should also assess the individual's ability to tolerate longer car rides and the potential impact of travel on their well-being.

The decision to move to Dungannon is ultimately a personal one, but it must be informed by a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local environment. By carefully evaluating the transportation landscape and healthcare access options, families can make an informed decision that prioritizes the health and safety of their loved ones.