26343, Crawford, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26343, Crawford, West Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.21 percent of residents in 26343 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland-Clarksburg Hospital, Inc with a distance of 30.43 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 26343

Crawford, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Mountain State, offers a tapestry of natural beauty and small-town charm. But for individuals and families considering a move to this community, especially those impacted by Alzheimer's disease, a critical assessment of healthcare access becomes paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" delves into the practicalities of transportation and healthcare accessibility within ZIP code 26343, providing a nuanced understanding for informed decision-making.

The primary concern for those with Alzheimer's is the ability to maintain consistent healthcare appointments. This requires a reliable transportation network, a cornerstone of independent living. In Crawford, the road network serves as the primary artery for accessing medical services. The journey often begins on **US Route 19**, a major thoroughfare connecting Crawford to larger towns and cities. Traveling south on US 19 provides access to healthcare facilities in Weston, approximately a 20-minute drive.

However, navigating US 19 can present challenges. The road, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially exacerbating travel times. Furthermore, the winding nature of the road requires drivers to remain attentive, which can be difficult for individuals with cognitive impairments.

To the east, **West Virginia Route 33** provides another route to healthcare. This road offers a scenic drive, but it also involves navigating mountainous terrain, which can be demanding, especially during inclement weather. Accessing healthcare facilities in Buckhannon via Route 33 typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Beyond the major highways, a network of smaller county roads, such as **County Route 19/2** and **County Route 19/3**, weaves through the community. These roads offer more direct routes to local services, but they are often narrower and less well-maintained than the primary highways. This can pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those who are unfamiliar with the area.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 26343 are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who are unable to drive. The absence of regular bus routes or other forms of public transportation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.

While there is no dedicated public transit, the **Upshur County Senior Center** may offer limited transportation services for seniors, including those with Alzheimer's. This service, however, is often restricted to specific appointments and may require advance booking. The Senior Center may also provide transportation to and from medical appointments, but availability can vary.

For those unable to drive or lacking access to personal vehicles, ride-sharing services and medical transportation become crucial. **Uber** and **Lyft**, while available in some surrounding areas, might have limited availability within the immediate vicinity of Crawford. This can result in longer wait times and higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **FirstCall Medical Transportation** and **MedExpress** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing services.

Healthcare access in Crawford is primarily centered around the **Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital** in Weston, which is a short drive from Crawford. This hospital provides a range of medical services, including primary care, specialist consultations, and emergency care. The hospital's proximity is a significant advantage for residents of Crawford, as it reduces travel times and ensures timely access to medical attention.

However, accessing specialized medical care may require travel to larger cities like Morgantown or Charleston. This involves longer travel times and potentially more complex transportation arrangements. The journey to Morgantown, home to the **West Virginia University Medicine**, typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours via US 19 North. The trip to Charleston, which has a greater number of medical facilities, is closer to 2.5 to 3 hours, also primarily via US 19.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the challenges of long-distance travel can be significant. The unfamiliar environment, the extended time spent in transit, and the potential for sensory overload can exacerbate cognitive difficulties and increase anxiety. Careful planning and consideration of the individual's needs are essential when arranging transportation to medical appointments outside of Crawford.

When considering a move to Crawford, families must carefully assess the availability and reliability of transportation options. The lack of robust public transit necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation. The distance to specialized medical care in larger cities also needs to be factored into the decision-making process.

The availability of support services, such as home healthcare agencies and respite care providers, can also significantly impact healthcare access. These services can provide assistance with daily living activities, medication management, and transportation to medical appointments, allowing individuals with Alzheimer's to maintain their independence and quality of life.

Ultimately, the "Alzheimer's Score" for ZIP code 26343 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity of the Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital in Weston provides convenient access to essential medical services, the limited public transportation options and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care present significant challenges.

For individuals and families contemplating a move to Crawford, a thorough evaluation of transportation needs, healthcare access, and available support services is crucial. Careful planning, open communication with healthcare providers, and a proactive approach to managing transportation challenges are essential for ensuring the well-being and safety of individuals living with Alzheimer's in this community. The ability to navigate the roads, utilize available services, and adapt to the unique circumstances of Crawford will determine the success of independent living.