15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.42 percent of residents in 15137 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 2.58 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in North Versailles (ZIP Code 15137)

Considering a move to North Versailles, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15137), especially if you or a loved one faces the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility of medical care within the area, focusing on transportation options crucial for managing the disease. This score will help you understand the realities of getting to appointments, therapies, and support services, factoring in the specific needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

The cornerstone of this evaluation is transportation. Alzheimer's often impairs driving ability, making reliable transportation a necessity. This assessment considers various modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare within and around North Versailles.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

North Versailles is situated in a suburban setting, with healthcare facilities primarily located in surrounding areas. Driving is a common mode of transportation, but understanding potential travel times is critical. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are the **William Penn Highway (US-22)**, the **Parkway East (I-376)**, and **Lincoln Highway (US-30)**.

For routine appointments at UPMC McKeesport Hospital, a major healthcare provider, the drive typically takes 10-15 minutes via US-30 and Lincoln Highway. This route is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, can extend travel times. The Parkway East (I-376) provides access to healthcare facilities in downtown Pittsburgh, such as UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside. This drive can take 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, and involves navigating a major interstate highway.

Specialized care, such as neurological specialists or memory care centers, might require travel to facilities further afield. For example, the drive to the UPMC SeniorCare Memory Center in Pittsburgh could take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the chosen route. The William Penn Highway (US-22) offers another route to Pittsburgh, but it can be subject to heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting hours.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the PAT System:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation within North Versailles. The primary bus routes serving the area are the **61A, 61B, and 67**. These routes connect North Versailles to Pittsburgh and surrounding communities. The 61A and 61B offer more frequent service and connect to the city center.

Public transit can be a viable option, but its suitability for individuals with Alzheimer's requires careful consideration. The PAT system is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, navigating the system can be challenging. Waiting at bus stops, especially in inclement weather, can be difficult. Transfers between routes can be confusing, and the potential for delays exists.

The 67 bus route provides access to the McKeesport area, including UPMC McKeesport Hospital. This route could be a good option for those who do not drive. The 61A and 61B routes connect to downtown Pittsburgh, offering access to a wider range of healthcare facilities. However, these routes involve longer travel times and potential transfers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in North Versailles. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, and the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation** and **CareRide** offer specialized transportation services. These services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Healthcare Access and Alzheimer's Considerations:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for North Versailles considers the combined factors of transportation, healthcare facility proximity, and specialized services. The area offers a mix of options, but challenges exist. While UPMC McKeesport Hospital is nearby, access to specialized care in Pittsburgh requires navigating traffic and potentially longer travel times.

The availability of public transit and ride-sharing services provides alternative transportation options. However, the reliability and suitability of these options for individuals with Alzheimer's must be carefully assessed. The need for frequent appointments, therapies, and support services necessitates a reliable transportation plan.

**Moving to North Versailles with Alzheimer's:**

For those considering moving to North Versailles with Alzheimer's, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is crucial. The ability to access healthcare facilities, including specialized memory care centers and neurological specialists, is paramount.

Consider the following factors:

* **Proximity to healthcare providers:** Evaluate the distance to hospitals, clinics, and specialists.
* **Transportation options:** Assess the availability and suitability of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport.
* **Support services:** Research the availability of memory care programs, support groups, and in-home care services.
* **Safety and security:** Consider the safety of the neighborhood and the accessibility of the home for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Conclusion:**

North Versailles offers a blend of healthcare access options. While proximity to UPMC McKeesport Hospital is a positive factor, access to specialized care in Pittsburgh requires careful transportation planning. The availability of public transit and ride-sharing services provides alternatives, but their suitability for individuals with Alzheimer's needs careful consideration. The "Alzheimer's Score" for North Versailles is moderate, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and a comprehensive understanding of transportation options when making decisions about healthcare access and the potential of moving to North Versailles. This information provides a foundation for making informed decisions about healthcare access and the challenges of managing Alzheimer's in this community.