15930, Dunlo, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15930, Dunlo, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.78 percent of residents in 15930 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 7.25 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dunlo, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15930)

The journey to healthcare becomes a pivotal concern for individuals and families facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. In the quaint community of Dunlo, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15930), nestled within the larger borough of Ehrenfeld, the accessibility of medical services significantly impacts the quality of life. This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up provides a detailed analysis of the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can access necessary healthcare, especially considering the cognitive and physical limitations associated with Alzheimer's. The goal is to provide a comprehensive guide for those considering a move to Dunlo or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare access options.

The primary consideration when assessing healthcare access in Dunlo is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town itself is small, and many residents depend on driving to reach medical appointments. Driving presents its own set of challenges, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience difficulties with navigation, judgment, and reaction time. Safety becomes paramount. Therefore, the proximity of medical facilities, the quality of roads, and the availability of alternative transportation options become crucial factors in the Alzheimer's Score.

Dunlo is situated in a rural setting. The main thoroughfare connecting Dunlo to larger towns and cities is **U.S. Route 219**, a major north-south highway. Access to **Route 219** is relatively straightforward from Dunlo, but the drive to larger healthcare providers in Johnstown, approximately 15 miles away, can take around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive time increases significantly during winter months due to snow and ice. The route primarily involves driving on **Route 219** and then utilizing local roads like **Scalp Avenue** and **Elm Street** to reach hospitals and clinics.

Within Johnstown, the primary healthcare providers include **Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center** and **UPMC Altoona**. Both offer comprehensive medical services, including specialized care for Alzheimer's and related dementias. The drive to these facilities, while manageable, requires careful planning, especially for individuals with cognitive impairments. The presence of traffic lights, intersections, and the need for lane changes can be overwhelming.

Alternative routes to healthcare exist, but they often involve navigating less-maintained roads. **Pennsylvania Route 53** offers a slightly shorter route to Johnstown from some parts of Dunlo, but it is a winding road with potential for delays. **Local roads** such as **Dunlo Road** and **Church Street** provide access to the town's amenities but are not suitable for long-distance travel to healthcare facilities.

Public transportation options in Dunlo and the surrounding area are limited. The **Johnstown Area Regional Transportation Authority (JARTA)** provides bus service throughout the Johnstown area. However, the frequency of routes serving Dunlo is low, and the routes may not be direct to healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the accessibility of JARTA buses for individuals with Alzheimer's needs careful consideration. While JARTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and designated seating, the cognitive challenges associated with Alzheimer's can make navigating the public transit system difficult. The need to remember bus schedules, understand route changes, and manage transfers can be overwhelming.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Johnstown area, offering a potential solution for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of drivers in Dunlo can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for individuals on a fixed income. The reliance on a smartphone and app-based technology can be a barrier for some individuals with Alzheimer's.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for individuals with disabilities and medical needs are another option. Several providers operate in the Johnstown area, including **First Transit** and **Care Ride**. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained staff who can assist with mobility and other needs. However, the availability and cost of these services vary, and advance booking is often required. The waiting times for medical transport can also be a concern.

For families considering a move to Dunlo, the accessibility of healthcare should be a primary consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options highlight the need for careful planning. The availability of family support, the willingness to drive and assist with appointments, and the ability to afford ride-sharing or medical transportation services are crucial factors in ensuring adequate healthcare access.

The Alzheimer's Score for Dunlo, based on the current transportation landscape, would be moderate. While healthcare facilities are within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transportation, the potential challenges of driving for individuals with Alzheimer's, and the reliance on ride-sharing services or medical transport services to access healthcare present significant barriers. The score is further impacted by the rural setting and the potential for inclement weather to disrupt travel.

Moving to Dunlo, therefore, requires a proactive approach to healthcare planning. Families should research the availability of medical transportation services, explore the possibility of utilizing ride-sharing, and consider the importance of family support in providing transportation and assistance. Regular communication with healthcare providers, including the establishment of a clear plan for transportation to appointments, is essential.

In conclusion, the healthcare access landscape in Dunlo, Pennsylvania, presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Johnstown is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential challenges of navigating the transportation system require careful consideration and proactive planning. The Alzheimer's Score emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare access, including the exploration of all available transportation options, the utilization of support services, and the development of a personalized plan to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's can receive the care they need.