15778, Timblin, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15778, Timblin, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.96 percent of residents in 15778 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 10.78 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Timblin, PA (ZIP Code 15778)

The serene landscape of Timblin, Pennsylvania, nestled within the rolling hills of Jefferson County, offers a tranquil setting that may appeal to those seeking a slower pace of life. However, for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease, the practicalities of **healthcare access** become paramount. This analysis, an "Alzheimer's Score" for ZIP code 15778, assesses the ease of **transportation** to essential medical services, a crucial factor in maintaining quality of life and ensuring timely care. Planning a **move to Timblin** requires a careful consideration of these factors.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the drive time to healthcare facilities. The nearest hospital, Penn Highlands Brookville, is approximately 10 miles away, a drive that typically takes around 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The primary route is via Route 36 North, a well-maintained two-lane highway. This route offers a relatively straightforward journey, but the potential for delays exists during peak hours or inclement weather. Further, Route 36 North can present challenges for those with cognitive impairments, as it involves navigating intersections and maintaining awareness of surrounding traffic.

Specialist care, often a necessity for Alzheimer's patients, necessitates travel to larger medical centers. UPMC Altoona, approximately 70 miles away, represents a significant drive of about 1 hour and 30 minutes via I-80 East. This interstate highway, while efficient, requires sustained focus and the ability to handle higher speeds. For someone with Alzheimer's, the length of the journey and the complexities of interstate driving could be overwhelming. Another option, though slightly further, is UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh, roughly 95 miles away, accessible via I-80 West and I-376 West. This trip, taking about 2 hours, presents similar challenges to the Altoona route, compounded by the potential for heavier traffic as one approaches the city.

Public **transportation** options in Timblin are limited. The Jefferson County Transportation Authority (JCTA) provides demand-response service, requiring advance booking. While this service offers door-to-door **transportation**, its availability is restricted, and the scheduling process can be cumbersome for individuals with cognitive difficulties or their caregivers. The JCTA vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. However, the reliance on pre-arranged rides and the potential for longer wait times could pose a significant challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Timblin. The sparse population and limited demand make it unlikely that these services operate within the area. This lack of readily available ride-sharing options further restricts **transportation** choices for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer an alternative. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare are prevalent in the region, often contracted by insurance providers. These services provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the availability and coverage of these services depend on insurance plans and the specific needs of the patient. The process of coordinating these rides, involving scheduling, insurance verification, and communication with the **transportation** provider, adds another layer of complexity for caregivers.

The availability of local pharmacies is also crucial. The closest pharmacy is likely in Brookville, requiring a short drive. The ability to pick up prescriptions promptly is essential for managing medications, and the ease of access to pharmacy services significantly impacts the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their families.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Timblin, PA (15778) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Penn Highlands Brookville offers a degree of convenience for basic medical needs, the lack of robust public **transportation**, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on pre-arranged medical **transportation** create significant challenges. The long drive times to specialist care in Altoona or Pittsburgh, along with the complexities of interstate travel, pose additional hurdles. For those considering a **move to Timblin** with an Alzheimer's diagnosis, or who are caring for someone with the disease, careful planning and consideration of these **transportation** and **healthcare access** limitations are essential. The need for reliable, accessible, and readily available **transportation** is amplified in the context of Alzheimer's, making it a critical factor in ensuring the well-being and quality of life for those affected. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively is a key determinant of **healthcare access** and the ability to age in place.