17028, Grantville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17028, Grantville, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.54 percent of residents in 17028 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milton S Hershey Medical Center with a distance of 8.07 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Grantville, PA (ZIP Code 17028) – Navigating Healthcare with Cognitive Challenges

Grantville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Dauphin County, offers a charming, small-town atmosphere. Yet, for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease, the ease of daily life hinges on dependable **transportation** and readily available **healthcare access**. This Alzheimer's Score write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare resources from Grantville (ZIP Code 17028), considering the unique needs of those with cognitive impairments. We’ll examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative **transportation** services, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering **moving to Grantville** or already residing there.

Grantville's central location, approximately 20 miles east of Harrisburg, provides a degree of convenience. However, the rural nature of the area necessitates careful planning for medical appointments and emergency situations. The primary arteries for navigating the region are Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south thoroughfare, and US Route 22, an east-west highway. These highways form the backbone of **transportation** infrastructure, yet their reliance on personal vehicles creates potential challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are crucial. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a comprehensive medical center, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via I-81 South and US Route 322 East. This route, while relatively straightforward, demands vigilance and navigational skills. The drive can be especially challenging during peak traffic hours.

Local hospitals such as UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, located in Harrisburg, are accessible via I-81 South and US Route 322 East, resulting in a drive time of roughly 30-40 minutes. Again, the reliance on highway travel necessitates careful planning and potential assistance from caregivers.

For routine appointments, local physician offices and specialist clinics are located in nearby towns like Hershey and Hummelstown. These destinations can be reached via US Route 322 East and local roads, offering shorter drive times, typically 10-20 minutes. However, these routes may involve navigating more complex intersections and potentially less-clear signage, posing difficulties for those with cognitive decline.

Public **transportation** options in Grantville are limited. Capital Area Transit (CAT), the primary public transit provider for the Harrisburg area, does not offer direct routes to Grantville. Individuals relying on public transit would likely need to travel to Harrisburg and transfer to a local bus, significantly extending travel times and adding complexity. This lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

CAT does provide ADA-accessible services, including lift-equipped buses and paratransit options for individuals with disabilities. However, accessing these services from Grantville would require prior registration and scheduling, adding another layer of complexity. The paratransit service, while designed to address mobility challenges, may involve longer wait times and limited availability, potentially impacting timely **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Grantville area. However, the reliability and affordability of these services can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, potentially straining the financial resources of individuals and families managing the costs of Alzheimer's care.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer an alternative. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance with mobility and accompaniment to appointments. Brands like American Medical Response (AMR) and MedStar offer medical **transportation** services in the region. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, making them less suitable for spontaneous or emergency needs.

When considering **moving to Grantville** or residing there with Alzheimer's, it's vital to evaluate the practical implications of **transportation** challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services highlight the importance of careful planning.

Caregivers should assess the individual's driving abilities and consider alternative **transportation** arrangements. Establishing a network of support, including family members, friends, and community organizations, can be invaluable. Pre-scheduling appointments and arranging for **transportation** well in advance can minimize stress and ensure timely **healthcare access**.

Furthermore, exploring the availability of home healthcare services can mitigate the need for frequent travel. Telemedicine options, where feasible, can also reduce the frequency of in-person visits.

Grantville, with its rural charm, offers a peaceful environment. However, the challenges associated with **transportation** must be carefully considered for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's. Thorough planning, proactive support, and a clear understanding of available resources are essential for ensuring **healthcare access** and maintaining quality of life.