16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.83 percent of residents in 16224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 10.90 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 16224 for Cognitive Challenges

This assessment focuses on transportation and healthcare access within ZIP Code 16224, encompassing Fairmount City, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas. It is designed to provide a comprehensive overview for individuals and families considering a move to this region, particularly those facing cognitive challenges like Alzheimer's disease. Understanding the ease of **transportation** and proximity to **healthcare access** is paramount for maintaining quality of life and ensuring timely medical intervention.

The "Alzheimer's Score" considers various factors, from drive times to public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. This detailed analysis aims to empower informed decision-making, allowing individuals and families to assess the suitability of Fairmount City for their specific needs. The goal is to illuminate the practical realities of navigating the local landscape, offering a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities presented by the area's infrastructure.

**Driving Times and Road Networks**

Driving remains a primary mode of **transportation** in this rural area. The primary thoroughfare serving Fairmount City is Pennsylvania Route 28 (PA-28), which offers a direct route to the larger regional centers. Accessing healthcare facilities in nearby towns such as Clarion, Brookville, and Kittanning necessitates navigating PA-28, potentially encountering traffic, especially during peak hours.

Traveling to Clarion Hospital, a significant healthcare provider, involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey primarily utilizes PA-28 North. The road is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose a challenge, potentially increasing travel times and necessitating caution. Smaller local roads, like State Route 66, offer alternative routes, though they often involve more winding paths and may not be suitable for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Brookville Hospital is slightly further, requiring a drive of around 25-30 minutes via PA-28 North and then a connection onto US-322. Kittanning, with its healthcare facilities, is accessible via PA-28 South, with a drive time of roughly 30-40 minutes. The ability to drive independently is crucial, but the length of these journeys, coupled with potential traffic and weather-related delays, must be considered.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in 16224 are limited. The Clarion County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially in the more rural areas surrounding Fairmount City. These services are primarily geared towards essential travel needs, such as accessing medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other essential errands.

The CCTA offers demand-response services, where riders can request a pickup and drop-off within a designated service area. This door-to-door service is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or cognitive impairments. However, booking these services requires advance planning, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak hours.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. CCTA vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can pose significant challenges for those relying on public transit for regular healthcare appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, though their presence may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing requires access to a smartphone and the ability to navigate the app, which can be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for individuals requiring assistance with healthcare appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including helping patients in and out of vehicles. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized companies focused on non-emergency medical transportation.

These services can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive challenges, ensuring safe and reliable transportation to medical appointments. However, costs can be a significant factor, and pre-booking is essential. Researching and comparing different medical transport providers is crucial to find the most suitable and affordable option.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a critical factor in assessing **healthcare access**. Clarion Hospital, located in Clarion, is the closest major hospital, offering a range of medical services, including emergency care, specialized clinics, and geriatric care. Brookville Hospital and facilities in Kittanning offer additional options, though travel times are longer.

The availability of specialized geriatric care and memory care services is also crucial. Clarion Hospital offers geriatric services, but the availability of specialized memory care units or programs may be limited. Researching the specific services offered by each healthcare provider is essential to ensure that the individual's needs are met.

Access to primary care physicians who specialize in geriatric care is vital. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician who understands the complexities of Alzheimer's disease can significantly improve the quality of care. Inquire about the availability of home healthcare services, which can provide essential support and assistance in the home environment.

**Moving to Fairmount City: Considerations**

Considering a move to Fairmount City or the surrounding area requires careful evaluation of the **transportation** and **healthcare access** landscape. The rural nature of the region presents both advantages and disadvantages for individuals with cognitive challenges. The slower pace of life and close-knit community can be beneficial. However, the limited public transit options and reliance on driving can pose challenges.

Before making a decision, it's essential to thoroughly assess the individual's ability to navigate the local **transportation** options. If driving is no longer feasible, the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical transport are critical. Researching the healthcare providers in the area and their specific services, including geriatric care and memory care programs, is crucial.

Consider the availability of support services, such as home healthcare and adult day care programs. These services can provide essential support and assistance, enabling individuals with Alzheimer's disease to maintain their independence and quality of life.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

Navigating **healthcare access** in 16224 for individuals with cognitive challenges requires a nuanced understanding of the local infrastructure. While the area offers a peaceful environment and a sense of community, the limited public transit and reliance on driving necessitate careful planning. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport can mitigate some of the challenges, but costs and availability must be considered.

Thorough research, including direct contact with healthcare providers, **transportation** services, and community support organizations, is essential. The “Alzheimer's Score” for 16224 suggests that while the area may be suitable for some, careful consideration of individual needs and capabilities is paramount to ensure a safe, accessible, and supportive environment for those facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.