15827, Byrnedale, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15827, Byrnedale, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

90.31 percent of residents in 15827 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 9.99 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Byrnedale, PA (ZIP Code 15827)

Considering a move to Byrnedale, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15827), and concerned about healthcare access, especially if Alzheimer's or related dementias are a factor? This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape, highlighting challenges and opportunities for accessing medical care. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for informed decision-making.

Byrnedale, a small, rural community nestled in Clearfield County, presents unique transportation challenges. The area's limited infrastructure impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals with cognitive impairments. The ability to navigate unfamiliar routes, manage complex schedules, and utilize various transportation modes becomes crucial for maintaining well-being and independence.

**Driving Distances and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in Byrnedale is personal vehicles. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The closest hospital, Penn Highlands Elk, is located in St. Marys, approximately 25 miles away. This drive, primarily via **Pennsylvania Route 255**, usually takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. **Route 255** is a two-lane highway, potentially challenging for individuals with visual or cognitive impairments.

Specialized care, such as neurology or geriatric services, might necessitate travel to larger cities like DuBois or Clearfield. DuBois, about 40 miles away, is accessible via **Interstate 80** and **Pennsylvania Route 255**. This drive could take 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Clearfield, roughly 50 miles distant, is reachable via **Pennsylvania Route 153** and **Interstate 80**, potentially taking 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Navigating these distances can be daunting for individuals with Alzheimer's. The extended drive times, unfamiliar routes, and potential for getting lost heighten anxiety and increase the risk of disorientation. The need for reliable transportation, coupled with the potential for cognitive decline, underscores the importance of considering alternative options.

**Public Transportation Limitations:**

Public transportation options in Byrnedale are extremely limited. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) offers bus services, but these are primarily focused on serving the larger towns and cities within the county. Service to Byrnedale is infrequent, and routes may not directly connect with healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, the CCATA's website does not readily display information about ADA-accessible features for specific routes. Confirming wheelchair accessibility, lift availability, and driver assistance is crucial. Even if a route exists, the infrequent schedules and potential for long wait times could prove challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's. Reliance on public transit necessitates careful planning, coordination, and potential assistance from caregivers or family members.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in rural areas. While availability might exist in Byrnedale, it is not guaranteed. Wait times could be significantly longer than in urban areas, and the cost may be higher due to the distance traveled. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore unreliable.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **First Transit** and **CareRide** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in some areas. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, availability and coverage in Byrnedale must be confirmed. Costs vary depending on the distance and level of care required.

**Additional Considerations:**

Beyond the transportation options, several factors influence healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's in Byrnedale. The availability of specialized geriatric care, memory care specialists, and support groups is crucial. The local healthcare providers' familiarity with Alzheimer's and their ability to provide comprehensive care is another essential consideration.

Furthermore, the availability of in-home care services, such as visiting nurses or home health aides, can significantly improve quality of life. These services can provide assistance with medication management, personal care, and transportation to appointments.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Moving to Byrnedale with Alzheimer's necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation challenges. Relying solely on personal vehicles can be risky. Exploring the CCATA bus routes, though limited, is a starting point. Contacting ride-sharing services to assess their availability is also recommended.

The most reliable option is to research medical transport services operating in the area. Companies like **First Transit** and **CareRide** should be contacted to inquire about services to and from medical facilities. Additionally, exploring the availability of in-home care and support services is critical.

Ultimately, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Byrnedale highlights the limitations of healthcare access due to transportation challenges. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the lack of readily available transportation options for individuals with cognitive impairments is a significant concern. Careful planning, reliance on family support, and proactive exploration of available resources are essential for ensuring access to healthcare and maintaining quality of life.