26298, Bergoo, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26298, Bergoo, West Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.71 percent of residents in 26298 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Webster Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.44 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26298 (Bergoo, West Virginia)

The tranquil expanse of Bergoo, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26298), offers a life steeped in the quiet rhythms of nature. Nestled amidst the Appalachian Mountains, this rural community presents a unique set of considerations for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Crucially, the ability to navigate the complexities of **transportation** to **healthcare access** becomes a defining factor in the quality of life. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," will delve into the realities of commuting to medical facilities, considering the limitations and challenges faced by those with cognitive impairments and their caregivers, especially for those **moving to Bergoo**.

The primary challenge in Bergoo is the limited infrastructure. The roads, while scenic, can be treacherous, especially during inclement weather. The absence of readily available public **transportation** and the vast distances to specialized medical care create significant hurdles. This score will assess the feasibility of accessing essential medical services, including neurology, memory care, and geriatric psychiatry, considering the available options and their suitability for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The heart of this assessment lies in the drive times. From Bergoo, the nearest hospitals offering comprehensive medical services are in Webster Springs, Buckhannon, and Elkins. The journey to Webster Memorial Hospital in Webster Springs, primarily via **US Route 20**, is approximately a 30-minute drive under ideal conditions. This route, while relatively straightforward, can become challenging during winter months, with potential for icy roads and reduced visibility. The winding nature of the road can also pose difficulties for those with visual or cognitive impairments.

For more specialized care, the drive to St. Joseph's Hospital in Buckhannon, typically via **US Route 20** and then **US Route 33**, extends to about an hour. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, including consideration of restroom breaks, medication management, and the potential for the individual to become disoriented. The route involves navigating a more complex intersection, which can add to the cognitive burden.

The most significant drive is to Davis Medical Center in Elkins, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily on **US Route 33**. This route, while offering access to a wider range of specialists, presents the greatest challenges. The length of the trip increases the likelihood of fatigue, anxiety, and disorientation for the individual with Alzheimer's. Moreover, traffic, while generally light, can become congested during peak hours or on weekends, further complicating the commute.

Public **transportation** options in Bergoo are virtually nonexistent. There are no fixed-route bus services, and the availability of demand-response services, like those offered by the West Virginia Department of **Transportation**, is limited. Even if these services were available, the lack of frequency and the potential for long wait times would make them impractical for individuals with Alzheimer's. The absence of readily accessible public transit highlights a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for this population.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public **transportation**, but the lack of such services in Bergoo negates these protections. This absence underscores the reliance on private **transportation** and the challenges faced by those who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle. The absence of ADA-compliant routes further exacerbates the difficulties faced by individuals with mobility issues.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are extremely limited or unavailable in Bergoo and the surrounding areas. This leaves families reliant on personal vehicles, family members, or private medical **transportation** services. The unavailability of ride-sharing services severely restricts the options for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical **transportation** services are available, but their cost and availability can be significant barriers. Companies like MedStar and FirstCall Medical Transportation offer services, but their pricing often reflects the distances involved. These services typically require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs. The reliance on such services adds to the financial burden and logistical complexities of **healthcare access**.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Bergoo (ZIP Code 26298) reflects the challenges of accessing **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's. The long drive times, limited public **transportation**, and the absence of ride-sharing services create significant obstacles. The reliance on personal vehicles, family support, and potentially expensive medical **transportation** services underscores the need for careful planning and consideration.

For those **moving to Bergoo** with a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer's, a comprehensive assessment of **transportation** options is critical. This includes evaluating the ability to drive, the availability of family support, and the feasibility of utilizing medical **transportation** services. The remoteness of the area necessitates proactive planning to ensure access to essential medical care and support services.

The challenges presented by the geographical isolation of Bergoo are undeniable. The lack of readily accessible **transportation** options significantly impacts the ability of individuals with Alzheimer's to maintain their independence and receive timely medical care. The "Alzheimer's Score" highlights the need for creative solutions, such as expanding medical outreach programs, promoting caregiver support, and exploring alternative **transportation** models to improve **healthcare access** in this rural community. The score is not a definitive number, but a reflection of the complex realities of living with Alzheimer's in a rural environment.