17066, Mount Union, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17066, Mount Union, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.12 percent of residents in 17066 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 22.89 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17066

Mount Union, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of the Juniata River Valley, offers a tranquil setting. But for those considering a move, especially individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" examines transportation options within and from ZIP code 17066, focusing on commute times, public transit, and ride-sharing, all critical factors influencing healthcare access.

The geography of Mount Union presents a unique challenge. The town is relatively isolated, surrounded by rolling hills and the Juniata River. This natural beauty, however, translates to limited transportation infrastructure. Assessing healthcare access requires a keen understanding of the available options and their limitations.

**Driving: The Primary Arteries**

For most residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. The main thoroughfare in Mount Union is Pennsylvania Route 75, a two-lane highway that connects the town to surrounding areas. Heading south, Route 75 offers a direct route towards Huntingdon, the county seat, where healthcare facilities are concentrated. The drive to UPMC-operated facilities in Huntingdon, including the UPMC Huntingdon Life Center and the UPMC Huntingdon Hospital, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, covering approximately 15-20 miles. This is a manageable distance for many, but the drive time can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, especially during winter months.

Further afield, access to specialized care might necessitate travel to larger cities like Harrisburg or State College. The journey to Harrisburg, a major medical hub, involves navigating Route 75 to US-22 East, a larger highway that eventually merges with Interstate 81. This drive can take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. State College, home to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, is accessible via Route 75 to US-322 West. The drive time is roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes. These longer commutes can be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's, requiring careful planning and potentially assistance from family or caregivers.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Mount Union are extremely limited. The area is served by the Huntingdon County Transit Authority (HCTA), but its services are primarily focused on providing demand-response transportation. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance. While the HCTA offers door-to-door service, this can be a significant drawback for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may require immediate or unscheduled transportation.

The HCTA's vehicles are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. They are equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of riders. However, the limited operating hours and the need for pre-booking make public transit a less-than-ideal option for routine healthcare appointments or emergencies. The lack of fixed routes and the dependence on advance scheduling can create considerable stress for both the individual and their caregivers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Huntingdon area, but their presence in Mount Union is inconsistent. Availability can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments requires careful planning and the potential for significant wait times. The uncertainty of availability can be a major concern for those managing Alzheimer's.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Services (MTS) and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation, often equipped with trained staff and specialized vehicles. These services can be booked in advance and offer door-to-door service, making them a more reliable option for healthcare appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability might be limited, especially for short-notice requests.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for transportation in 17066 reveals a complex picture. While driving provides the most direct access to healthcare facilities, the longer commute times to specialized care in larger cities pose a challenge. The limited public transportation options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further complicate matters.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the ability to maintain independence and access healthcare is crucial. The challenges of transportation can significantly impact their quality of life. The need for reliable, accessible, and affordable transportation is paramount.

**Considerations for Moving to Mount Union**

Individuals and families considering a move to Mount Union should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. The availability of family support, caregiver assistance, and the potential for utilizing medical transportation services should be considered.

The proximity to UPMC Huntingdon Hospital is a significant advantage, offering immediate access to emergency care and a range of medical services. However, the need for specialized care might necessitate longer commutes to facilities in Harrisburg or State College.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Transportation Solutions**

The "Alzheimer's Score" highlights the need for improved transportation solutions in Mount Union and the surrounding areas. Increased investment in public transportation, including the potential for fixed-route services or expanded demand-response options, would significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents, particularly those with Alzheimer's.

Furthermore, promoting ride-sharing services and supporting the availability of medical transportation options are crucial. Addressing the transportation challenges in 17066 is not just about improving healthcare access; it is about fostering a community that supports the well-being and dignity of its residents, including those navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. The future of healthcare access in Mount Union depends on a commitment to creating a more accessible and supportive transportation infrastructure.