25671, Dingess, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25671, Dingess, West Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.90 percent of residents in 25671 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Logan Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.93 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Dingess, WV (ZIP Code 25671)

The crisp mountain air of Dingess, West Virginia (ZIP code 25671) offers a serene backdrop for life. However, for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease, the tranquility can be quickly overshadowed by the complexities of healthcare access. This Alzheimer's Score analysis assesses the transportation landscape within and around Dingess, focusing on how easily residents can reach vital medical services, a critical consideration when contemplating a move to this area.

The primary concern for individuals with Alzheimer's is the ability to navigate to and from healthcare appointments. This often requires reliable, safe, and easily understood transportation. The challenges are amplified by the progressive nature of the disease, which can impair memory, judgment, and spatial awareness, making even familiar routes difficult to manage. Therefore, this analysis delves into the available transportation options, considering their practicality for those living with Alzheimer's.

The primary artery for travel in and out of Dingess is **US Route 52**, a two-lane highway that snakes its way through the rugged terrain. Driving times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by this road. The nearest hospital, **Cabell Huntington Hospital**, is located in Huntington, WV, approximately 75 miles away. Under ideal conditions, the drive on US-52 and then **Interstate 64** (eastbound) takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. This journey, however, can be significantly impacted by traffic, weather, and the winding nature of the roads. For someone with Alzheimer's, such a long drive can be exhausting and disorienting.

Closer to home, the **Logan Regional Medical Center** in Logan, WV, presents a slightly shorter commute. The drive, primarily on **WV Route 10** and then **US Route 119**, covers approximately 40 miles and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This route is less reliant on interstate travel, but it still involves navigating winding mountain roads, which can be a challenge for those with cognitive impairments.

Public transit options are extremely limited in Dingess. The area is not served by a robust public transportation system, and there are no local bus routes. This lack of public transportation severely restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or who are no longer able to drive safely. The absence of accessible public transit is a significant barrier for individuals with Alzheimer's who may rely on others for transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also unreliable in this rural area. The availability of drivers is sporadic, and wait times can be lengthy. Even if a ride is secured, the driver may not be familiar with the specific needs of someone with Alzheimer's, such as assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle or remembering the destination. This lack of readily available ride-sharing services further compounds the transportation challenges.

Medical transportation services offer a potential solution. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals with disabilities or medical needs. These services typically require advance booking and can be costly. However, they can provide door-to-door service and offer assistance with mobility. Some of the companies that serve the area include **MedTrans** and **CareRide**. It is crucial to thoroughly research and vet these services to ensure they provide the level of care and support needed for someone with Alzheimer's.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available transportation is a critical consideration. The lack of public transportation in Dingess means that ADA compliance is not a factor. However, the medical transportation companies are required to meet ADA standards for accessibility, which includes vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. It is essential to confirm that any medical transportation service used is fully compliant with ADA regulations.

The availability of in-home healthcare services is another crucial element of healthcare access. Home health aides and visiting nurses can provide medical care and support in the comfort of the patient's home, reducing the need for frequent trips to medical facilities. However, the availability of these services in Dingess may be limited, and the cost can be substantial.

When considering moving to Dingess, families must carefully assess the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The long distances to medical facilities, the lack of public transit, and the unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive medical transportation services requires careful planning and financial consideration.

The Alzheimer's Score for transportation and healthcare access in Dingess is therefore, low. While the natural beauty of the area is undeniable, the practical realities of accessing healthcare, especially for those with cognitive impairments, present significant obstacles. Families considering a move to Dingess must prioritize a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs and develop a comprehensive plan to ensure access to timely and appropriate medical care. This plan should include identifying reliable medical transportation services, exploring the availability of in-home healthcare, and considering the potential need for relocation to a location with better healthcare access as the disease progresses. The decision to move to Dingess, or any rural location, should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation limitations and their impact on the quality of life for someone living with Alzheimer's.