17002, Allensville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17002, Allensville, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.46 percent of residents in 17002 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 14.43 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Allensville (ZIP Code 17002)

The golden years beckon, and with them, the potential for cognitive decline. Choosing a home in Allensville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17002), demands a keen understanding of healthcare access, especially for individuals and families facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. This "Alzheimer's Score" assesses the ease of transportation to essential medical services, providing a crucial perspective for informed decision-making.

Allensville, nestled in the heart of Mifflin County, offers a tranquil setting. However, its rural character significantly impacts transportation options, a critical factor in managing Alzheimer's. Individuals with this condition often require frequent medical appointments, making reliable and accessible transportation paramount. This analysis delves into the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape within and around ZIP Code 17002.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Allensville are roadways. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic, weather, and the distance to medical facilities. The closest significant healthcare provider is Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, approximately 15 miles away. The drive usually takes around 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the route and traffic conditions.

The most direct route involves taking Pennsylvania Route 655 south, which merges with US Route 322. This is the primary highway connecting Allensville to Lewistown. The road is generally well-maintained, but can experience delays during peak hours or inclement weather. Alternative routes, such as taking local roads like Allensville Road and then connecting to US 322, can add significant travel time.

For specialized care, individuals may need to travel further. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a major regional hospital, is roughly 60 miles away, necessitating a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes. This trip involves navigating US 322 east, a busy highway that can experience heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour. Another option is to take PA 322, which is a less direct route but may offer a more scenic drive.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Allensville are severely limited. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus services, but their routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. Service frequency is low, and routes often do not directly serve medical facilities.

The MCTA offers some ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible vehicles, including ramps and wheelchair lifts. However, pre-booking is often required, and the limited service area presents a significant challenge. The lack of frequent service and the potential for long wait times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for those with memory impairments, who may experience anxiety or disorientation.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lewistown area, but their presence in Allensville itself is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density, which can fluctuate. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is risky due to potential delays and the uncertainty of availability, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide and First Medical Transport provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and often come with a higher cost than other options. However, they provide a crucial service for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. It is important to research and vet these services thoroughly, ensuring they have experience working with individuals with cognitive impairments.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access in Allensville is affected by other factors. The availability of specialized geriatric care and memory care specialists is a critical consideration. Families need to determine the proximity of neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists who can diagnose and manage Alzheimer's disease. The availability of support groups, respite care, and assisted living facilities with memory care units is equally important.

The ability to access these services is directly linked to transportation. Long travel times can increase stress and fatigue for both the individual with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and medical transportation services, must also be factored into the overall cost of care.

**Moving to Allensville: A Balanced Perspective:**

Allensville offers a peaceful environment, but the limitations in transportation options for healthcare access must be carefully considered. While the drive to Geisinger Lewistown Hospital is relatively manageable, the longer distances to specialized care facilities pose a challenge.

Families considering a move to Allensville for a loved one with Alzheimer's should thoroughly investigate all transportation options. This includes researching the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, and the MCTA's ADA-accessible services. It is crucial to develop a detailed transportation plan that accounts for the individual's needs, medical appointments, and potential emergencies.

The Alzheimer's Score for Allensville, ZIP Code 17002, highlights the importance of proactive planning. While the area offers a serene lifestyle, the transportation challenges necessitate a well-thought-out strategy to ensure access to quality healthcare. This comprehensive assessment empowers families to make informed decisions, prioritizing the well-being and safety of their loved ones.