15413, Allison, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15413, Allison, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.65 percent of residents in 15413 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Uniontown Hospital with a distance of 9.13 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 15413 (Allison, PA)

Considering a move to Allison, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15413) for yourself or a loved one facing Alzheimer's disease necessitates a thorough evaluation of healthcare access. This "Alzheimer's Score" considers the crucial element of transportation, recognizing that navigating appointments, therapies, and emergencies becomes exponentially more challenging with cognitive decline. The score reflects the ease of reaching essential medical services, factoring in driving times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport.

Allison, a small community nestled in Fayette County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's rural character often translates to longer travel distances, particularly for specialized care. The assessment prioritizes the accessibility of primary care physicians, neurologists, memory care specialists, pharmacies, and emergency services.

**Driving Times: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of transportation in Allison is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The ability to drive safely and reliably is paramount. For those with Alzheimer's, driving becomes increasingly problematic. This score will assess the drive times to key healthcare providers, assuming an individual's ability to be driven.

The main arteries facilitating healthcare access are Route 119 and Route 21. Route 119, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers a direct route to Uniontown, the county seat, where the bulk of medical services are concentrated. Driving to Uniontown Hospital, a critical healthcare hub, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive involves navigating a mix of winding country roads and sections of highway, requiring attentive driving skills.

Route 21, heading east, provides access to Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, and Greene County Memorial Hospital. The drive, though scenic, can take upwards of 45 minutes, adding to the potential stress of healthcare appointments. This route also involves navigating rural roads, which can be particularly challenging during inclement weather or at night.

Smaller roads, such as Old 119, and local routes like New Salem Road, provide access to smaller clinics and pharmacies within Allison and surrounding areas. However, these routes can be poorly maintained and may lack adequate lighting, potentially increasing safety concerns.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in 15413 are severely limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. The Fayette County Transportation Authority (FCTA) offers some bus routes, but their service area is not extensive, and the routes may not directly serve Allison or provide convenient access to key healthcare facilities.

The FCTA routes that might be relevant would be those serving Uniontown. However, these routes often operate on limited schedules, with infrequent service, especially on weekends and evenings. This makes scheduling appointments and returning home challenging.

Furthermore, the accessibility of FCTA buses for individuals with mobility issues is a critical consideration. While the FCTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, the availability of these buses on all routes cannot be guaranteed. The lack of readily available, reliable public transit severely limits healthcare access for those who cannot drive or lack access to a driver.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in rural areas like Allison. While availability may fluctuate, depending on driver availability, reliance on these services can be unpredictable and costly. The time it takes for a ride-share to arrive, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be a significant factor.

Specialized medical transport services offer a more structured solution for individuals with Alzheimer's. Companies like CareRide or other regional providers may offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles and accompanying the individual to appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, especially for short-notice appointments.

**Healthcare Access: Key Facilities and Considerations**

The primary healthcare providers for Allison residents are located in Uniontown. Uniontown Hospital is the primary hospital, offering a range of services, including emergency care, cardiology, and some neurology services. Access to specialized Alzheimer's care, such as memory clinics or geriatric psychiatry, may require travel to Pittsburgh, approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive.

Pharmacies are readily accessible in Uniontown and closer to Allison. However, ensuring timely medication refills and managing prescriptions is a crucial aspect of care. The availability of home delivery services from pharmacies could be a significant advantage for individuals with Alzheimer's.

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

The "Alzheimer's Score" for 15413 reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services combine to create a complex environment. While medical transport services provide a vital lifeline, their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

Moving to Allison with Alzheimer's necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare planning. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician, exploring available transportation options, and pre-arranging medical transport services are essential steps. The score emphasizes the importance of family support, community resources, and a comprehensive care plan to ensure the individual's well-being and access to necessary medical care.

The score would be negatively impacted by the lack of readily available public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the distance to specialized care. The score would be positively influenced by the proximity to Uniontown Hospital, the availability of medical transport services, and the potential for family support.

Ultimately, the "Alzheimer's Score" is a dynamic assessment. Regular re-evaluation is crucial, considering changes in the individual's cognitive abilities, the availability of transportation options, and the evolving healthcare landscape.