17076, Oakland Mills, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17076, Oakland Mills, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17076 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 13.45 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Oakland Mills (ZIP Code 17076)

The tranquility of Oakland Mills, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania's Juniata County, offers a serene backdrop for life. However, for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a paramount concern. This analysis, an "Alzheimer's Score" of sorts, examines the practicalities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** within and around ZIP Code 17076, providing crucial information for those considering **moving to Oakland Mills** or already residing there.

Oakland Mills, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities. Its rural nature dictates a reliance on personal vehicles, making the availability and reliability of **transportation** a critical factor in maintaining quality of life, especially for those with cognitive impairments. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and support services directly impacts the well-being of individuals living with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

The primary thoroughfare through Oakland Mills is Route 35, a two-lane highway connecting the area to larger towns and cities. While convenient for local travel, it can become congested during peak hours. Driving times to essential healthcare facilities are a key consideration. The nearest hospital, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive via Route 35 and US-22 East. This journey, though relatively short, demands careful planning, particularly if the individual with Alzheimer's experiences disorientation or difficulty with navigation.

For specialist appointments, the drive times increase. Reaching specialists in Harrisburg, the state capital, requires a longer journey, roughly an hour and fifteen minutes via US-322 East and US-22 West. This longer commute necessitates careful consideration of the individual's stamina, the potential for traffic delays, and the need for rest stops along the way. The availability of reliable **transportation** becomes even more crucial for these extended trips.

Public **transportation** options in Oakland Mills are limited. Juniata County does offer a public transit system, the Juniata County Transportation Authority (JCTA). However, service is primarily demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system, while providing a lifeline for some, might not be ideal for individuals with Alzheimer's who may experience unpredictable needs or require immediate access to medical care. The JCTA does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability of these vehicles and the scheduling process should be carefully investigated.

Furthermore, the JCTA’s routes are not fixed, and the service area can be restrictive. This means individuals may have to rely on family, friends, or other support networks to get to a pick-up location. The limited service hours and the need for advance booking present challenges for those requiring regular medical appointments or experiencing sudden health concerns.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The reliability of these services is crucial, particularly for those who can no longer drive. The cost of ride-sharing can also add up, potentially becoming a significant financial burden for families. The ability to easily schedule and manage rides is another factor to consider, especially for those with cognitive impairments.

Medical **transportation** services specifically designed for patients are also available. Companies like Care Ride and MedRide specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often offer trained drivers and vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility issues or other special needs. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited in rural areas. Researching the specific providers serving ZIP Code 17076 and assessing their pricing and services is vital.

The availability of pharmacies within Oakland Mills is limited. The nearest pharmacies are located in nearby towns like Mifflintown or Lewistown. This necessitates either a drive or reliance on **transportation** services to pick up prescriptions. Ensuring timely access to medication is critical for managing Alzheimer's symptoms, making pharmacy access a significant consideration.

Beyond physical **transportation**, the availability of telehealth services is another factor in assessing **healthcare access**. Telehealth can provide access to medical consultations, therapy sessions, and support groups from the comfort of home. While telehealth can mitigate some of the challenges of **transportation**, it requires reliable internet access and the ability to use technology. The availability of telehealth services offered by local healthcare providers should be investigated.

Support services for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers are crucial. These services include memory care facilities, adult day care programs, and support groups. The availability of these resources within or near Oakland Mills is a key factor in assessing the quality of life for those affected by the disease. Researching the proximity of these facilities and the ease of access is essential.

For those considering **moving to Oakland Mills**, a thorough assessment of the **transportation** landscape and **healthcare access** is imperative. This includes evaluating the proximity of healthcare facilities, the reliability of public **transportation** and ride-sharing services, the availability of medical **transportation** options, and the accessibility of pharmacies and support services.

The Alzheimer's Score for Oakland Mills, based on these factors, would be influenced by the limitations of public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for long drive times to specialist care, and the limited local resources. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of accessing healthcare require careful planning and consideration.

The ideal scenario involves a multi-faceted approach. This could include:

* **Careful planning:** Scheduling medical appointments in advance, coordinating **transportation** with family, friends, or professional services.
* **Leveraging technology:** Utilizing telehealth services for routine appointments and support groups.
* **Exploring local resources:** Investigating the availability of adult day care, memory care facilities, and support groups in the surrounding areas.
* **Advocating for improved services:** Supporting initiatives to improve public **transportation** options and expand access to healthcare in the region.

By proactively addressing these challenges, individuals and families can navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's disease while enjoying the tranquility and community spirit of Oakland Mills. The journey requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and a strong support network, but with the right strategies, a fulfilling life is possible.