15774, Shelocta, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15774, Shelocta, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.70 percent of residents in 15774 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 27.68 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Shelocta, PA (ZIP Code 15774)

Considering a move to Shelocta, Pennsylvania, with its tranquil rural setting? If you or a loved one face the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, a crucial aspect of your decision-making process will be healthcare access. This analysis, an "Alzheimer's Score" for the region, delves into the complexities of transportation options available for residents of ZIP code 15774, specifically focusing on the accessibility of medical facilities. Understanding these transportation dynamics is paramount for ensuring timely and reliable healthcare access, a cornerstone of quality of life.

Shelocta, nestled in Indiana County, presents a unique set of circumstances. Its location offers a blend of natural beauty and a more limited infrastructure, particularly concerning public transportation. This necessitates a careful evaluation of various transportation methods, factoring in drive times, the availability of public transit, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing services or specialized medical transport. The ability to navigate these systems directly impacts the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience cognitive and physical limitations.

**Driving the Landscape: Roads and Highways**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Shelocta is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The town is served by a network of roads, with Pennsylvania Route 119 serving as a major thoroughfare. This route provides access to the larger towns and cities in the region, including Indiana, PA, where the Indiana Regional Medical Center is located. The drive to Indiana, approximately 10 miles, typically takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Other significant roads include PA Route 210, which offers connections to the east, and local roads like Manorville Road and Main Street, which facilitate movement within the community. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can impact travel times and safety. For individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience visual impairments or difficulties with spatial awareness, navigating these roads can be challenging.

The drive to Pittsburgh, PA, a major metropolitan area with numerous specialized medical facilities, is roughly 60-70 miles and requires approximately 1.5 to 2 hours via US-22 and US-30. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, considering potential fatigue and the need for rest stops. The presence of tolls on some routes adds another layer of complexity to the journey.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Shelocta are limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus services within Indiana County. However, the routes and schedules are not extensive, and service to Shelocta may be infrequent. This makes relying on public transit for regular healthcare appointments difficult, especially for those with cognitive impairments or mobility issues.

The ICTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with features like ramps and wheelchair lifts, to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of these accessible buses and the overall coverage of the transit system should be thoroughly investigated. Contacting ICTA directly is essential to confirm routes, schedules, and ADA-compliant features for specific healthcare destinations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the Shelocta area, but their reliability and availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. It is essential to check the availability of these services in advance and to factor in potential wait times.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained staff and specialized vehicles. Several companies may operate in the region, including those offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). Researching and contacting these services is critical.

**Medical Transport Providers**

While specific medical transport providers operating in the immediate Shelocta area are difficult to pinpoint without real-time market research, some national and regional providers may service the area. These include companies that offer non-emergency medical transport, such as Modivcare, LogistiCare, and Medical Transportation Management (MTM). Local ambulance services may also offer non-emergency transport services.

**Healthcare Access: Key Considerations**

The distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation, and the overall accessibility of medical services are crucial factors. The Indiana Regional Medical Center is the primary hospital in the region. In addition to this, there are several medical clinics and physician offices in Indiana, PA, offering a range of healthcare services.

Specialized care for Alzheimer's disease, including neurology and geriatric services, may require travel to larger medical centers in Pittsburgh. This underscores the importance of carefully assessing transportation options and planning for longer journeys.

**Evaluating the "Alzheimer's Score"**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Shelocta, PA, reflects the challenges presented by limited public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services. The rural setting and longer distances to specialized medical care add complexity. The score is impacted by the availability of medical transport services, the accessibility of local roads, and the potential for weather-related disruptions.

**Recommendations for Moving to Shelocta**

For individuals with Alzheimer's disease or their caregivers considering a move to Shelocta, a comprehensive assessment of transportation needs is essential. This should include:

* **Pre-move planning:** Research the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transport providers, and the feasibility of using the ICTA.
* **Vehicle assessment:** Ensure the vehicle is reliable and suitable for navigating the local roads, especially during winter.
* **Caregiver support:** Identify and establish a support network to assist with transportation and healthcare appointments.
* **Medical facility proximity:** Prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* **Emergency preparedness:** Develop an emergency plan that includes transportation arrangements in case of a medical crisis.

Moving to Shelocta can be a rewarding experience. However, careful planning and a thorough understanding of healthcare access and transportation options are crucial for ensuring the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. This detailed analysis aims to provide a framework for making informed decisions, prioritizing healthcare access, and ensuring a comfortable and supportive living environment.