26250, Belington, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26250, Belington, West Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.56 percent of residents in 26250 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Davis Medical Center with a distance of 7.99 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26250

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human need, takes on a heightened significance when considering the challenges faced by individuals living with Alzheimer's disease. In the context of ZIP Code 26250, encompassing Belington, West Virginia, the "Alzheimer's Score" becomes a crucial metric. It assesses the accessibility of medical services, factoring in the intricacies of transportation options and their suitability for those with cognitive impairments. This write-up explores the landscape of healthcare access within this rural area, providing a comprehensive understanding for anyone contemplating moving to Belington or supporting a loved one residing there.

The primary determinant of the Alzheimer's Score is the ease of reaching healthcare facilities. Belington, nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique transportation environment. Private vehicles dominate the landscape, with limited public transit options. The major thoroughfare, US Route 250, serves as the spine of the community, connecting Belington to surrounding towns and cities. Driving times, therefore, are a critical component of the score.

For routine appointments, the closest healthcare facilities are likely to be in Belington itself. The Belington Clinic, a family medicine practice, offers primary care services. Reaching this clinic by car is generally straightforward, with minimal travel time for most residents. However, for specialized care, individuals in ZIP Code 26250 often need to travel to larger medical centers.

The closest hospital with a broader range of services is Broaddus Hospital in Philippi, approximately 15 miles away. The drive along US Route 250 and WV Route 92 typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This relatively short drive is a positive factor in the Alzheimer's Score, offering a moderate level of accessibility for urgent medical needs.

For more complex care, residents may need to travel to Morgantown, home to WVU Medicine. This journey, approximately 80 miles via US Route 250 and I-79, can take up to two hours. The extended travel time presents a significant challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety, confusion, and fatigue during long car rides. The Alzheimer's Score is negatively impacted by this distance.

Public transportation options are limited in Belington. The Barbour County Transit Authority offers demand-response services, requiring advance booking. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive. However, the limited operating hours and potential for scheduling delays can pose difficulties for those with Alzheimer's, who may have fluctuating needs and require flexibility. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is essential, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can also access these services.

The lack of readily available public transportation significantly affects the Alzheimer's Score. The reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged services adds complexity to healthcare access. The absence of frequent, reliable bus routes hinders spontaneous medical visits and increases the burden on caregivers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Belington. This further limits transportation options, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The absence of these services directly impacts the Alzheimer's Score, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport, are available in the area. Companies like MedStar and several local providers offer services that can transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services are often equipped with trained personnel who can assist individuals with Alzheimer's. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, and the availability of these services needs to be considered.

The Alzheimer's Score must also consider the infrastructure of the healthcare facilities themselves. Are the waiting rooms comfortable and accommodating for individuals with cognitive impairments? Are there staff members trained in dementia care? These factors contribute to the overall healthcare experience and significantly impact the Alzheimer's Score.

When considering moving to Belington, families should thoroughly assess the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the absence of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning. Caregivers must be prepared to provide or arrange transportation for medical appointments, ensuring the individual with Alzheimer's can access the care they need.

The Alzheimer's Score for ZIP Code 26250 is moderate. While the proximity to Broaddus Hospital offers a degree of convenience, the long travel times to Morgantown and the limitations of transportation options present significant challenges. The availability of medical transportation services and the presence of local clinics mitigate some of these challenges.

Ultimately, the success of healthcare access in Belington hinges on the availability of reliable transportation. The community must invest in improving public transit options, supporting medical transportation services, and ensuring that healthcare facilities are equipped to meet the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. This proactive approach will enhance the Alzheimer's Score and improve the quality of life for those living with this challenging disease.