Health Scores Near 26814, Riverton, West Virginia
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The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26814, Riverton, West Virginia is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
46.50 percent of residents in 26814 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grant Memorial Hospital with a distance of 24.37 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 26814, Riverton, West Virginia
| Alzheimers Score | 25 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 64 |
| Provider Score | 10 |
| Hospital Score | 68 |
| Travel Score | 13 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 26814 | Riverton | West Virginia |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.72 |
| 1 Car | 11.50 | 11.50 | 20.26 |
| 2 Cars | 59.50 | 59.50 | 41.64 |
| 3 or More Cars | 29.00 | 29.00 | 35.38 |
Vehicular Access in 26814, Riverton, West Virginia
## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 26814 (Riverton, West Virginia)
Considering a move to the scenic beauty of Riverton, West Virginia (ZIP code 26814)? This analysis delves into the complexities of healthcare access for individuals, and their caregivers, facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. We'll evaluate the transportation landscape, a crucial factor in maintaining quality of life and ensuring timely medical attention. This "Alzheimer's Score" focuses on the practicalities of getting to and from essential healthcare appointments.
The rural nature of 26814 presents unique transportation hurdles. Public transit options are limited, and the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. This can be especially challenging for those with Alzheimer's, who may experience cognitive decline affecting their driving abilities or ability to navigate unfamiliar environments. The need for reliable transportation is paramount.
**Driving the Distance: Roads and Highways**
The primary artery for healthcare access in this area is **US Route 33**, connecting Riverton to larger towns and medical facilities. Driving from Riverton to the nearest hospital, **Grant Memorial Hospital** in Petersburg, is a relatively short journey, typically taking around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route primarily follows US Route 33, a well-maintained road, but one that winds through the mountainous terrain.
The journey to more specialized care often requires a longer drive. For instance, reaching **WVU Medicine’s University Hospital** in Morgantown, a major medical center, necessitates a drive of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, primarily via US Route 33 East and then onto Interstate 79 North. This extended travel time can be taxing for individuals with Alzheimer's, potentially exacerbating their symptoms and increasing the burden on caregivers.
Another important route is **West Virginia Route 28**, which can provide access to healthcare facilities in Franklin, approximately 20 minutes away. However, like US Route 33, Route 28 is a rural road, and its winding nature can pose navigational challenges for those with cognitive impairments.
**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**
Public transportation options in 26814 are severely limited. There is no established public bus system operating directly within the ZIP code. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or who do not have access to a personal vehicle.
The absence of public transit is a major factor impacting the Alzheimer's Score. The inability to easily access medical appointments can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and a decline in overall well-being. This is a significant concern for anyone considering moving to the area.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Navigating the Options**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Riverton or the surrounding rural areas. This means that individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers cannot rely on these services for transportation to medical appointments.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are a potential solution. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. Several medical transport providers may service the area, but it is crucial to investigate their coverage area, cost structure, and ability to accommodate individuals with specific needs, such as those with mobility issues or requiring assistance during transport.
**Medical Transport Brands:**
* **Valley Ambulance Service:** Offers medical transport services, including non-emergency transport.
* **Grant County EMS:** Provides emergency and non-emergency medical transport.
* **Mountain Valley Transportation:** May offer services in the area.
**ADA Accessibility:**
When considering transportation options, it's essential to assess their accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those with Alzheimer's. This includes ensuring that vehicles are equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users and that drivers are trained to assist passengers with mobility issues.
**The Caregiver's Burden:**
The transportation challenges in 26814 place a significant burden on caregivers. They may be responsible for driving their loved ones to appointments, managing the logistics of transportation, and navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. This can lead to caregiver burnout and negatively impact their own health and well-being.
**Healthcare Access: A Critical Element**
The availability of healthcare facilities in and around Riverton is an important consideration. While Grant Memorial Hospital in Petersburg offers basic medical services, access to specialized care often requires travel to larger cities like Morgantown or Harrisonburg, Virginia. This necessitates careful planning and coordination of transportation.
**Moving to Riverton: Considerations for Alzheimer's Care**
For individuals considering a move to Riverton with a loved one who has Alzheimer's, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. The lack of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services mean that a personal vehicle or reliance on medical transportation services is often necessary.
**The Alzheimer's Score: A Summary**
The Alzheimer's Score for 26814 is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The absence of public transit, the lack of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant challenges for healthcare access. The extended travel times to specialized medical facilities further compound these difficulties.
**Recommendations:**
* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Carefully evaluate the transportation needs of the individual with Alzheimer's. Consider their ability to drive, their mobility limitations, and their comfort level with different modes of transportation.
* **Explore Medical Transportation:** Research the availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transportation services in the area.
* **Plan for Caregiver Support:** Recognize the significant burden placed on caregivers and develop a support system that includes respite care, counseling, and access to resources.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Evaluate the proximity of healthcare facilities and the ease of access to specialized care.
* **Community Resources:** Investigate the availability of community resources, such as support groups, memory care programs, and home healthcare services.
Moving to Riverton can be a rewarding experience. However, for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, it is essential to carefully consider the transportation challenges and plan accordingly. Prioritizing healthcare access is paramount.
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