16246, Plumville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16246, Plumville, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.63 percent of residents in 16246 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 15.03 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16246

This assessment provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options and healthcare access within and surrounding ZIP code 16246, focusing on factors crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. The evaluation considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering insights into the feasibility of navigating healthcare appointments and essential services. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Plumville, Pennsylvania, or those already residing there, aiming to ensure optimal support for managing Alzheimer's.

The core of this assessment centers on transportation, recognizing its pivotal role in maintaining independence and well-being for those with cognitive impairments. The ability to access healthcare, therapy, and social engagements is paramount. We examine the practicalities of getting around, considering the limitations imposed by Alzheimer's and the necessity of safe, reliable, and convenient travel.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

Plumville, Pennsylvania, nestled in Armstrong County, presents a landscape dominated by rural roads and limited highway access. The primary thoroughfare connecting Plumville to larger towns and healthcare facilities is Pennsylvania Route 28/66. Driving to Indiana Regional Medical Center in Indiana, PA, a significant healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Plumville. This journey involves navigating Route 28/66 and potentially local roads, like State Route 85, depending on the starting point.

The drive to Clarion Hospital in Clarion, PA, offers another healthcare option. This route utilizes Route 28/66 and then Route 322, a drive that can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. While these distances might seem manageable, they pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The potential for getting lost, experiencing confusion, or becoming overwhelmed by the driving process necessitates careful consideration of caregiver support or alternative transportation solutions.

Furthermore, the rural nature of the area means that secondary roads, such as Township roads, can be narrow, winding, and poorly lit, especially at night. This increases the risk of accidents and disorientation for drivers with cognitive impairments. The presence of seasonal weather conditions, including snow and ice, can further exacerbate these challenges, making winter travel particularly difficult.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in ZIP code 16246 are limited. The Armstrong County Transportation Authority (ACTA) provides some services, but the routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not be directly accessible to Plumville. ACTA offers demand-response services, which require advance booking and are designed to serve individuals with disabilities or those living in areas with limited fixed-route options. However, these services may not be ideal for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may struggle with the planning and scheduling required.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) mandates that public transit systems provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist passengers with disabilities. However, the rural nature of the area and the limited availability of public transit may mean that these ADA-compliant services are not readily available or may require lengthy travel times.

The lack of frequent and reliable public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on family members, caregivers, or specialized transportation services becomes paramount.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally available in the region, but their availability can be sporadic, particularly in rural areas like Plumville. The reliability of these services may be inconsistent, and wait times can be prolonged. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility challenges or medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained staff who can assist with mobility, medication reminders, and other needs.

Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including some local companies and national brands. These companies often offer a range of services, from basic transportation to wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and the availability of services may be limited, especially during peak hours or in emergencies.

**Considerations for Individuals with Alzheimer's:**

When evaluating transportation options for individuals with Alzheimer's, several factors are crucial. The ability to navigate the transportation process safely and independently is a primary concern. Individuals with Alzheimer's may experience confusion, memory loss, and difficulty with spatial orientation, making driving or using public transit challenging.

Caregivers play a critical role in ensuring safe and reliable transportation. They may need to drive the individual to appointments, accompany them on public transit, or arrange for ride-sharing or medical transport. The availability of caregiver support is essential for maintaining healthcare access and ensuring the individual's well-being.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities is another important consideration. The physical layout of the facility, including parking, entryways, and waiting areas, should be accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. The availability of support staff, such as patient navigators or social workers, can also be beneficial in assisting with appointments and coordinating care.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Plumville:**

The decision to move to Plumville, Pennsylvania, requires careful consideration of healthcare access and transportation options. While the area offers a peaceful and rural setting, the limited availability of public transit and the distances to healthcare facilities pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Before moving, it is essential to assess the availability of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and therapists. It is also crucial to evaluate the transportation options and determine whether they meet the individual's needs. This may involve researching medical transport services, identifying caregiver support, or exploring the possibility of relocating closer to healthcare facilities.

The Alzheimer's Score for ZIP code 16246 reflects the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit, and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport create challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

However, with careful planning and proactive measures, it is possible to navigate these challenges and ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's receive the healthcare and support they need. This includes identifying reliable transportation options, establishing a strong support network, and proactively planning for healthcare appointments.

The goal is to create a safe, supportive, and accessible environment that promotes the well-being and quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's in Plumville and the surrounding areas. This requires a collaborative effort involving individuals, caregivers, healthcare providers, and community resources.