15049, Harwick, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15049, Harwick, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.73 percent of residents in 15049 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Allegheny Valley Hospital with a distance of 5.70 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Harwick, PA (ZIP Code 15049)

Considering a move to Harwick, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15049), and facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease? This assessment provides a detailed overview of healthcare access, focusing on transportation options, crucial for ensuring timely and safe medical care. This "Alzheimer's Score" considers the unique needs of individuals living with cognitive decline, emphasizing ease of access and minimizing stress.

The geography of Harwick, nestled along the Allegheny River, presents both advantages and disadvantages. The river provides scenic beauty, but the terrain can complicate transportation. Healthcare access, therefore, hinges on understanding the available routes and services.

**Driving Distances and Roadways:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation, especially for those with early-stage Alzheimer's who retain their driving privileges. However, as the disease progresses, driving becomes increasingly unsafe. Therefore, understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is paramount.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare is the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)**, providing relatively quick access to Pittsburgh. From Harwick, the nearest entrance is approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. The **Allegheny Valley Expressway (PA-28)** offers another route, albeit with more traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

For specialized care, UPMC facilities are readily accessible. UPMC St. Margaret Hospital in Lawrenceville is a 30-45 minute drive via PA-28, while UPMC Presbyterian in Oakland, a major hub for neurology and geriatric care, requires a 45-60 minute drive via the Turnpike or PA-28. The drive time is significant and must be considered when scheduling appointments.

Local roads like **Freeport Road** and **Saxonburg Boulevard** offer access to smaller medical offices and pharmacies within the surrounding communities. However, these routes are often slower and may involve navigating complex intersections, potentially challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments.

**Public Transportation: A Detailed Examination:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation within the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. However, public transit in Harwick and surrounding areas is limited, making healthcare access challenging.

Bus routes serving the area include the **91 (Harwick) and 93 (Freeport Road)**, but these routes are infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends. The 91 offers limited service to the Aspinwall area, where some medical offices are located. The 93 travels along Freeport Road, connecting to the 88, which can provide access to the city.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. PAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and ramps, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility issues. However, individuals with Alzheimer's may require assistance navigating the bus system, including boarding, disembarking, and understanding route information. This necessitates a caregiver or companion.

The limited frequency and coverage of public transit in Harwick significantly impact healthcare access. Relying solely on buses for appointments, especially those requiring specialized care, can be unreliable and time-consuming.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Exploring Alternatives:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to driving and public transportation. However, the availability of these services in Harwick may vary, and wait times can be unpredictable.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, ride-sharing requires careful planning. The individual must be able to identify the driver, navigate the app, and communicate their destination. A caregiver or companion is often necessary to ensure a safe and comfortable ride.

Medical transportation services specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service, assisting with boarding and disembarking, and providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

Several medical transportation providers serve the Pittsburgh area, including **CareRide, MedExpress, and GoHealth Urgent Care**. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs. However, they provide a more reliable and supportive option for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

Several healthcare facilities are located within a reasonable distance of Harwick. The nearest primary care physicians and specialists are often found in neighboring communities like Aspinwall, Fox Chapel, and Cheswick.

UPMC St. Margaret Hospital provides a range of medical services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient clinics. UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside hospitals offer specialized care, including neurology and geriatric medicine.

The availability of specialized Alzheimer's care is crucial. The UPMC Memory and Aging Program offers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for individuals with cognitive disorders. Accessing these services requires navigating the transportation challenges discussed above.

**Considerations for Moving to Harwick:**

Moving to Harwick with a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer's requires careful planning and consideration of healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the transportation limitations pose a significant challenge.

Before making the move, assess the individual's cognitive abilities and transportation needs. Determine whether driving is still an option, and if not, explore the availability and reliability of public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services.

Consider the proximity of healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, and memory care programs. Ensure that the chosen location provides convenient access to the necessary medical care.

**Alzheimer's Score Summary:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for healthcare access in Harwick, PA (ZIP Code 15049), is moderate. While driving provides access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on highways and local roads, combined with potential traffic congestion, can be stressful. Public transportation is limited and requires careful planning. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer viable alternatives, but their availability and cost must be considered.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the ideal scenario involves a combination of reliable transportation options, readily accessible healthcare facilities, and a supportive caregiver network. Moving to Harwick necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare access, ensuring that the individual's medical needs are met safely and efficiently. The transition, while potentially challenging, can be made smoother with careful planning and a commitment to prioritizing the individual's well-being.