15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.34 percent of residents in 15904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 3.15 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15904)

Considering a move to Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and concerned about healthcare access for yourself or a loved one facing Alzheimer's disease? This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up, tailored specifically for ZIP code 15904, will delve into the nuances of transportation and healthcare options, providing a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services, all vital components in ensuring safe and reliable healthcare access.

The primary focus is on navigating the practical realities of getting to medical appointments, a crucial factor for individuals with Alzheimer's. The cognitive decline associated with the disease can significantly impact a person’s ability to manage transportation independently. Therefore, the availability and accessibility of various transportation options become paramount. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape within and around Johnstown, allowing for informed decisions regarding healthcare and living arrangements.

Johnstown, nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, presents unique transportation challenges. The city's topography, with its hills and valleys, influences road networks and public transportation routes. While the area offers a sense of community and affordability, the accessibility of healthcare services requires careful consideration. The following sections will explore the transportation landscape in detail, focusing on the practicalities of reaching healthcare facilities from various points within the 15904 ZIP code.

**Driving to Healthcare: A Road Map**

For those who drive, understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is essential. The primary healthcare provider in the area is UPMC Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Johnstown. From many locations within 15904, the drive to UPMC Johnstown is relatively straightforward, typically involving a short trip on local roads.

From the central areas of 15904, such as the downtown and Kernville neighborhoods, the journey to UPMC Johnstown usually takes around 5-10 minutes. The primary route involves using Central Avenue and Broad Street. Traffic flow is generally moderate, but congestion can occur during peak hours, especially around the hospital itself.

For residents in the more eastern parts of 15904, such as the Moxham neighborhood, the drive time might extend to 10-15 minutes. Accessing the hospital often involves using Scalp Avenue and then turning onto Broad Street. The presence of traffic lights and potential for slower speeds on Scalp Avenue should be factored into travel planning.

Residents located further west, towards areas like Coopersdale, can expect similar drive times, typically around 10-15 minutes. The route often involves using Eisenhower Boulevard to access Broad Street. The roads are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can present challenges, especially on hilly sections.

For appointments at specialist clinics or other healthcare providers located outside of UPMC Johnstown, drive times can vary. For example, accessing specialist care in nearby towns like Ebensburg or Altoona would require a longer drive, potentially involving travel on US Route 219 or US Route 22. These longer trips necessitate careful planning, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety or fatigue during extended travel.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus Routes**

The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides public transportation services in Johnstown and the surrounding areas. However, the availability and accessibility of public transit for individuals with Alzheimer's require careful consideration.

The CCTA operates several bus routes that serve the 15904 ZIP code. Route 1, which runs along Main Street and Broad Street, provides access to UPMC Johnstown and other healthcare facilities. Route 2, which serves the areas of Moxham and Kernville, also provides access to the hospital. Route 3 serves the West End and Coopersdale.

While the CCTA offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can board and disembark safely, the frequency of service and the distance to bus stops can be limiting factors. The routes may not always run directly to the desired destinations, requiring transfers and potentially longer travel times.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the complexities of navigating bus routes, including understanding schedules, managing transfers, and dealing with potential delays, can be overwhelming. The lack of readily available information about route changes or delays can also be problematic. The CCTA website and customer service representatives can provide detailed information about routes, schedules, and ADA features.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Johnstown area, providing an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of 15904. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, are available in the Johnstown area. These services, such as MedRide or First Transit, offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist passengers with mobility issues and provide support during travel.

These services are often more expensive than public transportation or ride-sharing, but they provide a more reliable and personalized transportation experience. The availability of medical transportation services can be a significant advantage for individuals with Alzheimer's, providing a safe and stress-free way to reach medical appointments.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Summary**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for healthcare access in 15904 reflects a mixed picture. While UPMC Johnstown is readily accessible by car for many residents, public transportation presents challenges due to route limitations and potential complexities. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but their availability and cost can be barriers. Medical transportation services provide a reliable option, but they are more expensive.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the ideal scenario involves a combination of readily available transportation options. This might include a caregiver or family member providing transportation, utilizing medical transportation services for appointments, and supplementing with ride-sharing when necessary.

Moving to Johnstown with a loved one who has Alzheimer's requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. It is essential to assess the individual's mobility, cognitive abilities, and financial resources when making decisions about healthcare access. Pre-planning and exploring all available transportation options are crucial for ensuring that the individual can maintain their healthcare appointments and maintain their quality of life. The availability of support services, such as caregiver assistance programs and memory care facilities, should also be factored into the decision-making process. The goal is to create a safe and supportive environment that allows the individual to maintain their independence and receive the healthcare they need.