17029, Granville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17029, Granville, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17029 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 5.28 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Granville, PA (ZIP Code 17029)

The decision to move to a new location, particularly for those facing the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, demands careful consideration. This "Alzheimer's Score" provides a detailed assessment of healthcare access in Granville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17029), focusing on transportation options and their suitability for individuals with cognitive impairments. Understanding these factors is paramount for ensuring continued healthcare access and maintaining quality of life.

Granville, nestled in Mifflin County, offers a tranquil setting, but its rural nature presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and support services is crucial, and transportation options become a critical determinant of an individual's ability to age in place or thrive in a new environment.

The primary mode of transportation in Granville is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Driving, however, may become increasingly difficult or unsafe as Alzheimer's progresses. Therefore, we must examine alternative transportation options, meticulously assessing their feasibility and accessibility for individuals with cognitive impairments.

**Driving Distances and Road Navigation:**

The closest major healthcare facilities are located in Lewistown, approximately 10 to 15 minutes away by car. The primary route is via **US-22 West**, a well-maintained highway that provides a direct link to the town. The route is relatively straightforward, but navigating any highway can pose challenges for someone with cognitive decline.

Further afield, larger hospitals and specialized care centers are located in Harrisburg, about an hour's drive via **US-322 East** and then **I-83 South**. This journey involves more complex navigation, potentially requiring multiple lane changes and merging onto interstate highways. The longer drive time and increased traffic density can be overwhelming and increase the risk of disorientation.

For routine appointments, the proximity of Lewistown offers a significant advantage. However, access to specialized care may necessitate longer drives, which must be carefully considered. The ability to safely navigate these routes is paramount.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Granville are limited. Mifflin County does offer a public transit system, the **Mifflin County Transit Authority (MCTA)**, but its service area and frequency are restricted, especially in rural areas.

The MCTA operates fixed-route buses and demand-response services. The fixed routes may not directly serve all areas of Granville, and the schedules may not align with the needs of medical appointments. The demand-response service, which requires advance booking, may be a more viable option.

It is crucial to inquire about the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the MCTA buses. Ensure that the buses are equipped with features such as ramps or lifts, designated seating for individuals with disabilities, and audio-visual announcements. Confirm the availability of assistance from drivers.

The MCTA's phone number is 717-248-6888.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Options and Considerations:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lewistown area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, their availability may be limited in Granville, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The reliability of ride-sharing services is also a concern. Cancellations or delays can disrupt medical appointments and cause undue stress. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, particularly with frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assistance with mobility, and trained drivers.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the region. **Med-Trans** and **CareRide** are a few examples. These services may offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) or specialized transport for individuals with disabilities.

**Healthcare Access and Support Services:**

The presence of healthcare facilities in Lewistown is a significant advantage for Granville residents. **Geisinger Lewistown Hospital** offers a range of medical services, including primary care, specialists, and emergency care.

In addition to medical facilities, the availability of support services is critical for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. These services may include memory care programs, respite care, support groups, and home healthcare.

Research the availability of these services in the Lewistown area and their accessibility from Granville. The **Alzheimer's Association** (www.alz.org) and local senior centers can provide valuable information and resources.

**Moving to Granville: A Balanced Perspective:**

Moving to Granville, with its serene environment, may be an attractive option for some. However, the limitations in transportation options and healthcare access must be carefully weighed.

The proximity to Lewistown is a definite advantage, but the reliance on personal vehicles or limited public transportation presents challenges. Careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options are essential.

Before making a decision, it is crucial to:

* **Assess the individual's current and anticipated cognitive abilities.**
* **Evaluate the availability and reliability of transportation options.**
* **Identify and secure access to necessary healthcare services and support.**
* **Consider the financial implications of transportation costs.**

A comprehensive assessment of these factors will enable a well-informed decision, ensuring that the move to Granville supports the individual's healthcare needs and overall well-being. The goal is to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters independence and quality of life.