26385, Lost Creek, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26385, Lost Creek, West Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.36 percent of residents in 26385 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland-Clarksburg Hospital, Inc with a distance of 7.76 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lost Creek, WV (ZIP Code 26385)

The gentle hills and winding roads of Lost Creek, West Virginia, a community nestled in Harrison County, offer a tranquil backdrop. But for individuals navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers, the serenity can be shadowed by the challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This "Alzheimer's Score" provides a detailed overview of the available options within ZIP code 26385, illuminating the practical realities of receiving care in this rural setting.

For those considering **moving to Lost Creek**, or for current residents seeking to understand their options, this assessment considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a crucial glimpse into the landscape of support. The goal is to empower individuals and families with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The primary focus is on reaching medical facilities capable of providing specialized care for Alzheimer's patients. This includes neurologists, geriatric specialists, memory care units, and support services. The evaluation will consider the ease of reaching these destinations, the availability of alternative transportation methods, and the overall accessibility of the healthcare system.

The cornerstone of transportation in Lost Creek is the automobile. The most direct route to significant medical facilities involves navigating the local roadways. To reach United Hospital Center (UHC) in Bridgeport, a major regional hospital offering specialized services, residents typically travel via **WV-19** south, connecting to **I-79** south. The drive is approximately 20 miles and takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Another critical destination is Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown, approximately 50 miles north, requiring a drive of roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. This journey involves taking **WV-19** north to **US-19** north, and eventually connecting to **I-79** north. The route, while primarily on well-maintained highways, can be affected by weather, particularly during winter months, necessitating careful planning and consideration for those with cognitive impairments.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are available in the nearby towns of Clarksburg and Salem. Accessing these facilities usually involves navigating the secondary roads like **WV-19** and **WV-20**. Drive times to these locations are typically shorter, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, but the quality of care and specialized services may be limited compared to larger hospitals.

Public transit options within ZIP code 26385 are limited. The Harrison County Senior Center offers some transportation services, including door-to-door assistance for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, these services are often restricted to specific destinations, such as medical appointments, grocery shopping, and social events. Availability may be limited, and advance booking is typically required.

The West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) operates a public transit system, but its coverage in Lost Creek is minimal. There are no fixed-route bus services within the immediate area. The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or who are no longer able to operate a vehicle safely. This underscores the critical need for alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Lost Creek are variable. Service may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or complex medical needs. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically involve transporting patients to and from medical appointments in specially equipped vehicles, often with trained attendants.

Some of the prominent medical transport brands serving the area include First Call Medical Transportation and MedStar Ambulance Service. These services require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies depending on the provider and the patient's insurance plan.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Lost Creek presents unique challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant hurdles. The drive times to specialized medical facilities, coupled with the potential for weather-related delays, require careful planning and consideration.

For those **moving to Lost Creek**, it is crucial to assess the availability of transportation options and the accessibility of healthcare services. Caregivers should research the availability of medical transport services, the cost of ride-sharing, and the limitations of public transit. Planning for future healthcare needs is essential, including considering the potential for increased reliance on transportation assistance as the disease progresses.

The Alzheimer's Score for ZIP code 26385 highlights the importance of proactive planning. Individuals and families should develop a comprehensive transportation strategy that addresses potential challenges and ensures access to timely and appropriate medical care. This may involve exploring various options, including utilizing family support, engaging professional caregivers, and leveraging available community resources.

Ultimately, navigating the healthcare system in Lost Creek requires a multifaceted approach. By understanding the **transportation** landscape, proactively planning for future needs, and exploring available resources, individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers can enhance their **healthcare access** and improve their quality of life. The journey may be challenging, but with careful planning and a commitment to seeking support, it is possible to navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's disease in the heart of West Virginia.