16151, Sheakleyville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16151, Sheakleyville, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.05 percent of residents in 16151 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 8.87 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16151

This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score, a qualitative assessment of healthcare access within ZIP code 16151 (Sheakleyville, Pennsylvania), focusing on transportation options. This score considers factors crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers, including drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for those considering moving to Sheakleyville or evaluating its suitability for individuals requiring regular medical appointments.

The Alzheimer's Score isn't a numerical value but a narrative assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the context of healthcare access. This is especially important for those experiencing cognitive decline, who require predictable, reliable, and easily accessible transportation. The challenges of navigating complex transportation systems can be overwhelming, potentially exacerbating the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 16151 is the reliance on personal vehicles. Residents of Sheakleyville are dependent on driving to access most healthcare services. The nearest hospitals and specialist practices are located in Greenville (UPMC Horizon Greenville) and Meadville (Meadville Medical Center).

Reaching Greenville requires navigating approximately 10 miles, a drive primarily on US Route 19. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and near Greenville's commercial areas. The drive typically takes 15-20 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions.

Meadville, approximately 20 miles from Sheakleyville, necessitates travel on US Route 322 and US Route 19. This journey, taking roughly 30-40 minutes, presents a slightly more complex driving experience. The roads, while generally in good condition, can be subject to weather-related hazards, particularly during winter.

The rural nature of the area means that alternative routes are limited. The absence of significant public transportation options amplifies the importance of reliable personal transportation. The condition of the roads, including potential potholes and uneven surfaces, can become a significant challenge for individuals with mobility issues or impaired vision, further complicating their ability to access healthcare.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit in 16151 is severely limited. The Crawford Area Transportation Authority (CATA) provides some services in the Meadville area, but its reach into Sheakleyville is minimal. CATA does offer demand-response services, but these require advance booking and may not always be available at the desired times or days.

The lack of frequent, scheduled bus routes is a significant barrier to healthcare access for those unable to drive or who cannot rely on family or friends for transportation. The demand-response system, while offering a potential solution, can be complicated to navigate, particularly for individuals with cognitive impairments.

ADA accessibility features on CATA buses are available. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking pose substantial challenges. The absence of accessible transportation options for individuals with Alzheimer's disease restricts their independence and ability to maintain regular medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Sheakleyville. Their presence is limited to larger cities, leaving residents with few alternatives to personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation. This absence creates a significant gap in transportation options, particularly for urgent medical needs or when family support is unavailable.

Medical transportation services, while potentially available, are often expensive and require pre-arrangement. Companies like First Transit or local ambulance services may offer non-emergency medical transportation. However, their availability and cost can be prohibitive.

The reliance on these services adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access. Coordinating appointments, securing transportation, and managing the associated costs can be overwhelming for both the individual with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

**Alzheimer's Score Assessment:**

The Alzheimer's Score for 16151 is **Low**. The area's reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transportation, and the absence of readily available ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, can be stressful for those with cognitive impairments. The lack of alternative transportation options restricts independence and increases the risk of missed appointments. The absence of accessible transportation options also isolates individuals and limits their ability to participate in social activities.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Enhancing healthcare access in 16151 requires a multi-pronged approach. Increasing the frequency and coverage of CATA services, particularly demand-response options, would be beneficial. Subsidizing transportation costs for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers could also improve healthcare access.

Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing services, even on a limited basis, would offer another option. Providing educational resources and support for caregivers, including information on available transportation options and assistance programs, is crucial.

The development of a community-based transportation program, specifically tailored to the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease, would be ideal. Such a program could provide door-to-door service, trained drivers familiar with the needs of individuals with cognitive impairments, and assistance with appointment scheduling.

**Conclusion:**

While Sheakleyville offers a peaceful, rural environment, the limitations in transportation options present a significant challenge to healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone considering moving to the area or seeking to ensure the well-being of a loved one with cognitive impairment. The lack of readily available transportation options underscores the importance of proactive planning and the need for community-based solutions to address this critical need.