17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.48 percent of residents in 17009 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 1.13 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burnham, PA (ZIP Code 17009)

Considering a move to Burnham, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 17009, and concerned about healthcare access, especially for someone potentially facing Alzheimer's disease? This "Alzheimer's Score" aims to provide a detailed understanding of transportation options and their accessibility to medical facilities. We'll analyze the practicalities of getting to doctors, hospitals, and specialized care, factoring in the challenges Alzheimer's presents.

Burnham, a small Mifflin County community, is nestled along the Juniata River. Its charm lies in its close-knit atmosphere, but healthcare access requires careful consideration. The primary concern is the availability and ease of transportation to medical appointments. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience difficulties with memory, judgment, and spatial awareness, making independent travel increasingly complex.

**Driving Directions: The Asphalt Journey**

The most common method of transportation is, of course, driving. For those capable of driving, the primary routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating local roads and highways. The primary thoroughfare is **US Route 322**, a vital artery connecting Burnham to larger towns and cities. Heading east on 322 provides access to Lewistown, approximately a 10-15 minute drive, where you'll find Geisinger Lewistown Hospital. This hospital offers a range of services, including primary care, specialized clinics, and emergency care.

Traveling west on 322, the journey extends towards State College, a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes. State College boasts more extensive healthcare options, including Mount Nittany Medical Center and various specialist practices. The drive is generally straightforward, but the distance and potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours or Penn State University events, must be factored in.

Local roads like **Chestnut Street** and **Grandview Avenue** provide access to residential areas and local businesses. These roads are generally well-maintained, but their narrowness and lack of sidewalks in some areas can pose challenges for pedestrians or those using mobility aids.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Burnham are limited. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus services, but their routes and frequency are constrained. The MCTA operates primarily within Mifflin County, with limited service to surrounding areas. The bus routes are numbered, but specific route numbers and schedules should be confirmed with the MCTA directly.

The MCTA buses are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), meaning they must be equipped with features like wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can make public transit challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's. The need for careful planning and assistance from caregivers is paramount.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Burnham area, although their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Wait times and surge pricing can be significant factors, especially during peak hours or when demand is high.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution. These services are designed to transport individuals with medical needs to and from appointments. They often provide door-to-door service, assistance with mobility, and trained staff who can provide support and companionship. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including names like First Transit and Senior Ride. Researching and contacting these providers in advance is crucial to determine their availability, service area, and associated costs.

**Healthcare Access: The Crucial Connection**

The primary healthcare facility readily accessible to Burnham residents is Geisinger Lewistown Hospital. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency care. The hospital is located approximately 10-15 minutes from Burnham, making it a relatively convenient option for residents.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to State College or other larger cities. Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College offers a wider range of specialists and advanced medical treatments. The journey to State College, approximately 45-60 minutes, requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options.

**Considerations for Alzheimer's Patients**

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the challenges of transportation are amplified. The disease can impair memory, judgment, and spatial awareness, making independent travel increasingly difficult. Caregivers play a crucial role in ensuring safe and reliable transportation.

Here are some key considerations:

* **Caregiver Support:** The availability of a caregiver who can drive, navigate, and provide support is essential.
* **Transportation Planning:** Appointments should be scheduled with consideration for transportation logistics, allowing ample time for travel and potential delays.
* **Familiarity:** Choosing familiar routes and destinations can reduce anxiety and confusion.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services offer a valuable option, providing door-to-door service and trained staff.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** Public transit may be challenging due to limited routes, frequency, and potential for confusion.
* **Ride-Share Variability:** Ride-sharing services may be available but with potential wait times and surge pricing.

**Moving to Burnham: A Balanced Assessment**

Burnham offers a peaceful, community-oriented environment. However, when considering a move, especially for someone with Alzheimer's, healthcare access must be carefully evaluated. The proximity of Geisinger Lewistown Hospital is a significant advantage. However, the need for specialized care may necessitate travel to State College or beyond.

The Alzheimer's Score for Burnham reflects a mixed picture. While the community provides a supportive environment, the transportation infrastructure presents some limitations. Careful planning, reliance on caregivers, and utilization of medical transport services are crucial for ensuring access to healthcare. Thoroughly investigating the availability and reliability of transportation options is vital before making the decision to move to Burnham. This detailed assessment should provide valuable insights to assist in your decision-making process.