15332, Finleyville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15332, Finleyville, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.33 percent of residents in 15332 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jefferson Hospital with a distance of 5.72 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Finleyville (ZIP Code 15332)

The specter of Alzheimer's disease casts a long shadow, demanding careful consideration of healthcare accessibility. This analysis, tailored for the residents of Finleyville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15332), examines the crucial intersection of transportation and healthcare access, providing an Alzheimer's Score to gauge the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical services. This is particularly important for those considering moving to Finleyville, as it will impact their healthcare access.

Finleyville, a small borough nestled in Washington County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The very nature of Alzheimer's necessitates a reliable and readily available transportation system, impacting the quality of life. The ability to attend appointments, access therapies, and receive consistent care is paramount. This score will help determine the feasibility of these critical needs.

**Drive Times and Roadways: A Crucial Assessment**

The primary arteries serving Finleyville are Pennsylvania Route 88 and State Route 136. These roadways, while offering direct access to nearby towns, can become congested during peak hours, impacting travel times. Healthcare facilities are not immediately available within the borough.

For routine appointments, the drive to Monongahela, approximately 6 miles away, is a frequent journey. This involves navigating PA-88, a winding two-lane road, which can take 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The trip to Canonsburg, roughly 15 miles, utilizing PA-88 and Interstate 79, can take 25-35 minutes. This route offers a faster, more direct pathway, but I-79 is prone to traffic backups. Pittsburgh, a major healthcare hub, lies about 25 miles north, accessible via I-79. The drive can range from 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city.

The condition of the roads is also a consideration. PA-88, while scenic, has sections that require careful driving. Winter weather can significantly impact travel times, especially on secondary roads. An individual with Alzheimer's may have difficulty navigating these roads, especially if they are driving.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Significant Challenges**

Public transportation options in Finleyville are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for individuals with Alzheimer's. The primary provider is the Washington County Transportation Authority (WCTA). Their services are primarily demand-response, meaning riders must schedule trips in advance. This pre-planning can be difficult for those with cognitive impairments.

The WCTA operates a shared-ride program, which is the most viable option for accessing healthcare. However, the availability of these services can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or for trips to more distant locations. The ADA-compliant vehicles are equipped with ramps and lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility issues. However, the waiting times and the need to coordinate travel can be stressful.

The lack of fixed-route bus service in Finleyville is a major drawback. This eliminates the convenience and predictability of a regular schedule. The reliance on demand-response services increases the burden on caregivers and can lead to missed appointments. The uncertainty of travel times can also exacerbate anxiety for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Finleyville area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, like those offered by Senior Life and several private companies, provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of the vehicle. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability of these services also varies depending on the specific healthcare needs and insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The availability of healthcare facilities in Finleyville is limited. The closest primary care physicians are located in Monongahela, Canonsburg, and surrounding areas. Specialty care, such as neurology and geriatrics, requires travel to Pittsburgh or other regional centers.

The UPMC and Allegheny Health Network systems have hospitals and specialist clinics in Pittsburgh, providing a comprehensive range of services. However, the travel times and the need to navigate urban environments can be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's. The availability of specialized geriatric care and memory clinics is a critical factor.

**Alzheimer's Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Alzheimer's Score for Finleyville (ZIP Code 15332) reflects the challenges in accessing healthcare. The score considers the drive times, the limitations of public transportation, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation, and the proximity of healthcare facilities.

**Factors impacting the score:**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. While nearby towns are accessible, travel to Pittsburgh and other major healthcare centers can be time-consuming and subject to traffic.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. The reliance on demand-response services presents a significant barrier.
* **Ride-Share/Medical Transportation:** Variable. Availability and cost are significant considerations.
* **Healthcare Proximity:** Moderate. Primary care is available nearby, but specialty care requires travel.

**Recommendations:**

* **Caregiver Support:** Family members or caregivers will need to be actively involved in coordinating transportation and attending appointments.
* **Transportation Planning:** Pre-planning and scheduling transportation well in advance is crucial. Explore all options, including WCTA, ride-sharing, and medical transport.
* **Healthcare Provider Coordination:** Work with healthcare providers to schedule appointments efficiently and consider telehealth options when appropriate.
* **Community Resources:** Investigate local resources for seniors, including support groups, respite care, and transportation assistance programs.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Finleyville presents a complex landscape for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. While the community offers a peaceful setting, the limitations in transportation and healthcare access require careful planning and proactive management. The Alzheimer's Score highlights the challenges and underscores the importance of comprehensive support systems. Those considering moving to Finleyville must carefully assess their healthcare needs and develop a robust transportation strategy to ensure access to essential medical services. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining quality of life and providing the best possible care.