15333, Fredericktown, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15333, Fredericktown, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.01 percent of residents in 15333 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington Health System Greene with a distance of 11.64 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fredericktown, PA (ZIP Code 15333)

Fredericktown, Pennsylvania, nestled within the embrace of Greene County, presents a unique landscape for those considering a move, particularly when factoring in the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," delves into the critical aspects of healthcare access and transportation options within and around ZIP code 15333, offering a nuanced perspective for individuals and families grappling with the challenges of this progressive neurological disorder.

The core of this evaluation rests on the ability to reach essential healthcare services. For residents of Fredericktown, this often translates to a reliance on vehicular transportation. The availability and accessibility of healthcare, coupled with the ease of navigating the local roadways, are paramount considerations.

The primary arterial route serving Fredericktown is **Pennsylvania Route 88**, a winding thoroughfare that snakes its way through the heart of the community. This road connects to **Interstate 70 (I-70)**, a vital east-west corridor that offers access to regional healthcare facilities. Driving times, however, can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination.

**Route 88** offers a direct route to the larger towns of Brownsville and California, which have medical offices. The commute to these towns can be completed in 15-20 minutes.

**I-70** becomes the crucial link to more comprehensive healthcare options. Heading east on **I-70** leads to Washington, PA, a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Washington Hospital is a well-regarded regional medical center. Further east, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes on **I-70** can take you to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA, a world-renowned healthcare institution.

Heading west on **I-70** will take you to Wheeling, West Virginia. The drive is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Wheeling Hospital is a regional healthcare center.

The Alzheimer's Score must consider the limitations that can arise with driving as the disease progresses. Cognitive decline can impair driving skills, making alternative transportation solutions essential.

Public transportation options in Fredericktown are limited. The primary provider is the **Greene County Transit**, which offers bus services within the county. Unfortunately, the frequency and coverage of these routes are limited, and the availability of specific routes serving Fredericktown may be restricted. It is crucial to investigate the current schedules and routes to determine if they align with the needs of someone with Alzheimer's.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical factor. **Greene County Transit** is required to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses. However, the practical application of these services, such as the ease of scheduling and the reliability of pick-up times, needs to be carefully evaluated.

The absence of readily available and frequent public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's who can no longer drive. This emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region. However, their availability and response times can vary, particularly in rural areas like Fredericktown. The Alzheimer's Score must consider the potential unreliability of these services, especially during inclement weather or off-peak hours. Booking and coordinating rides can also be challenging for someone with cognitive impairments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized approach. These services often provide trained personnel and vehicles equipped to handle the specific requirements of individuals with Alzheimer's.

Several medical transportation providers serve the broader Pittsburgh metropolitan area. These providers offer a range of services, from basic transportation to assisted transport with medical staff. The Alzheimer's Score must consider the cost of these services, the availability of specific providers in the Fredericktown area, and the ability to arrange for transportation on a regular basis.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Fredericktown is limited. Residents must typically travel to nearby towns or cities for specialized medical care. This underscores the importance of assessing the accessibility of these facilities and the ease of transportation.

The Alzheimer's Score also considers the availability of specialized care for Alzheimer's disease. This includes memory care clinics, support groups, and geriatric specialists. Identifying these resources and assessing their proximity to Fredericktown is essential.

The social support network is another critical element. The presence of family, friends, and community organizations can play a vital role in providing assistance and companionship to individuals with Alzheimer's. Assessing the strength of these networks within the Fredericktown area is an important consideration.

Moving to Fredericktown presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. The rural setting offers a sense of tranquility, but the limited healthcare access and transportation options can create significant obstacles.

The Alzheimer's Score for Fredericktown, PA, is therefore a complex calculation. It considers the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options. It also factors in the availability of specialized care, the strength of social support networks, and the overall accessibility of essential services.

The final score is not merely a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment that reflects the realities of living with Alzheimer's in this specific geographic location. It serves as a crucial tool for informed decision-making, empowering individuals and families to navigate the complexities of healthcare access and transportation in Fredericktown, PA, and to make choices that prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of those affected by this challenging disease. The ability to successfully navigate these hurdles will be the key to a successful move to Fredericktown.