17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.70 percent of residents in 17049 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 16.65 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in McAlisterville, PA (ZIP Code 17049)

The decision to move to a new community, especially for individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, demands careful consideration. Beyond the idyllic charm of a place like McAlisterville, Pennsylvania, lies the crucial question of **healthcare access**. This "Alzheimer's Score" for ZIP code 17049 assesses the practicality of **transportation** options to medical facilities, aiming to provide a clear picture for informed decision-making. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing possibilities, and specialized medical transport, all vital components for maintaining quality of life and providing timely care.

McAlisterville, nestled in the heart of Juniata County, offers a tranquil rural setting. However, its relative remoteness presents unique challenges regarding **healthcare access**. The nearest comprehensive medical centers are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating reliable **transportation** for appointments, therapies, and emergencies. This assessment will focus on the practicalities of navigating these distances.

Driving is undoubtedly the primary mode of **transportation** in this area. From McAlisterville, accessing healthcare often involves navigating the network of local roads and highways. To reach the nearest hospital, UPMC-West Shore in Mechanicsburg, a journey of approximately 60 miles is required. This trip typically takes around one hour and fifteen minutes, primarily via Route 322 East, a major artery connecting the region. Expect some traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours.

The drive to Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, a closer option at roughly 25 miles, takes about 35 minutes. This route involves Route 35 South, a well-maintained road, but also includes some winding sections. In the event of an emergency, these drive times become critical, emphasizing the need for reliable **transportation** and readily available emergency services.

Public transit options are limited in McAlisterville and surrounding areas. The Juniata County Transportation Authority (JCTA) provides a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This is a dial-a-ride service, offering door-to-door **transportation** within Juniata County and limited service to neighboring counties. While the JCTA offers ADA-accessible vehicles, the scheduling process and potential for longer travel times may present difficulties for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The lack of fixed-route buses significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without access to a private vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability can be unpredictable. Availability is dependent on driver presence, which can be sporadic in rural locations. Booking in advance is recommended, but even then, delays or cancellations are possible. This makes relying solely on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments a risky proposition.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and First Transit provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific limitations regarding the distance and type of medical care. The cost of these services can be substantial, and availability should be confirmed well in advance.

When considering **moving to McAlisterville**, a thorough evaluation of **healthcare access** is essential. The Alzheimer's Score for this area is influenced by the drive times to medical facilities, the limited public transit options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost and scheduling requirements of medical **transportation**. The availability of family support or a dedicated caregiver is crucial for navigating these **transportation** challenges.

The quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers is inextricably linked to their ability to access timely and appropriate medical care. This includes not just physician appointments but also access to therapies, support groups, and respite care. The rural setting of McAlisterville, while offering certain advantages, poses significant hurdles in this regard.

Caregivers must factor in the potential stress of long drives, the challenges of coordinating **transportation**, and the potential for unexpected delays. The availability of local resources, such as home healthcare services and community support programs, becomes even more critical in this context.

For those considering **moving to McAlisterville**, a proactive approach to **healthcare access** is crucial. This includes researching the availability of medical **transportation** services, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and exploring the possibility of home healthcare. The decision to relocate should be made with a clear understanding of the **transportation** limitations and a plan to address them.

The Alzheimer's Score for McAlisterville highlights the need for a comprehensive strategy to ensure **healthcare access**. While the area offers a peaceful and supportive environment, the practicalities of getting to and from medical appointments must be carefully considered. This assessment provides a starting point for evaluating the suitability of this community for individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's disease.