26325, Auburn, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26325, Auburn, West Virginia is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

9.09 percent of residents in 26325 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland-Clarksburg Hospital, Inc with a distance of 29.28 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 26325

Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease necessitates careful consideration of various factors, paramount among them being access to healthcare. This analysis, the Alzheimer's Score, specifically examines the transportation landscape within ZIP code 26325, a region that could be of interest to those considering moving to Auburn, particularly if they are concerned about healthcare access. The objective is to assess the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation modalities.

ZIP code 26325 encompasses a portion of Auburn, West Virginia, and its surrounding areas. The primary healthcare provider in this region is St. Joseph's Hospital, located in Buckhannon. Assessing healthcare access demands a deep dive into the transportation infrastructure that links residents to this vital resource.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the commute to St. Joseph's Hospital from various points within 26325 presents a range of drive times. Residents in the heart of Auburn, near the intersection of **US Route 33** and **WV Route 20**, can expect a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes. The journey primarily involves navigating **WV Route 20** north, a relatively well-maintained road. However, traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can slightly extend the travel time.

Venturing further out from Auburn, the drive times increase. Residents in the more rural areas, perhaps residing near **Brushy Fork Road** or **Hall Road**, could face a commute of 25-30 minutes. This longer journey is primarily due to the winding nature of the roads and the reduced speed limits in these areas. **US Route 33**, while offering a more direct route, can be subject to delays due to construction or weather conditions, especially during the winter months.

Public transportation options in 26325 are limited, which can significantly impact healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. The primary provider is the Upshur County Senior Center, which operates a demand-response system. This service, while offering transportation to medical appointments, requires advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent needs. The system’s accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility challenges common in Alzheimer's, is a critical consideration. Information regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, such as wheelchair accessibility and lift-equipped vehicles, is crucial.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their availability may be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services for individuals with cognitive impairments requires careful assessment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, offer another avenue. Companies like CareRide or local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport. These services often cater to individuals requiring assistance with mobility or who need specialized care during transit. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, necessitating advance planning.

The Alzheimer's Score for 26325, therefore, is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. The relatively short drive times from Auburn to St. Joseph's Hospital offer a degree of convenience. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability and affordability of medical transportation services become critical considerations.

The healthcare access landscape in 26325 demands a nuanced understanding. While the proximity of St. Joseph's Hospital is a positive factor, the transportation infrastructure necessitates careful planning and consideration, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that should be revisited as transportation options evolve.

For individuals contemplating a move to Auburn, particularly those concerned about healthcare access, a thorough assessment of these transportation options is paramount. This includes evaluating the availability of ride-sharing services, the accessibility of the Upshur County Senior Center's transportation program, and the cost and reliability of medical transportation providers.

The decision to move to a new location is complex, and the Alzheimer's Score highlights the critical importance of transportation infrastructure in ensuring access to healthcare. The goal is to facilitate informed decision-making, ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers can navigate the healthcare system with confidence and ease.

In conclusion, while the drive times to St. Joseph's Hospital are manageable from many parts of 26325, the limited public transit options and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or costly alternative transportation solutions necessitate careful planning and consideration. The Alzheimer's Score underscores the importance of a comprehensive assessment of transportation infrastructure when evaluating a location for individuals living with Alzheimer's.