17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.38 percent of residents in 17094 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 17.53 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17094

The decision to relocate, especially when considering the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, necessitates a meticulous assessment of healthcare access. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 17094 (Thompsontown, Pennsylvania), delves into the practicalities of transportation, a critical element impacting the quality of life for individuals and their caregivers. The "Alzheimer's Score" here isn't a numerical value, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the transportation landscape. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport options to gauge the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services.

Thompsontown, a charming rural community, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The primary mode of transport is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The proximity to major roadways is a double-edged sword. While providing access, it also means navigating potential traffic and weather-related delays.

The primary artery for travel is **US Route 322**. This major highway offers relatively quick access to larger towns and cities where specialized medical care is often located. Driving east on 322 leads towards Harrisburg, the state capital, a journey of approximately 50 miles. The drive, typically taking around an hour, offers access to a wider array of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, specialist clinics, and rehabilitation centers. However, this route can be susceptible to congestion during peak hours, particularly near Harrisburg.

Traveling west on 322 leads towards State College, home to the Penn State University campus and its associated medical facilities. The drive, about 60 miles, takes roughly an hour and fifteen minutes, offering another viable option for healthcare. However, this route involves navigating more rural roads, and weather conditions, especially in winter, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Local roads, such as **PA Route 75** and **PA Route 35**, provide access to nearby towns and healthcare providers. These routes, while shorter in distance, often involve slower speeds and more frequent stops. They are suitable for shorter trips to local pharmacies, doctor's offices, and urgent care facilities. However, their limited scope restricts access to specialized care.

Public transportation options in Thompsontown are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's, particularly those who can no longer drive. This lack of accessibility can severely restrict healthcare access, isolating residents and increasing the burden on caregivers.

The absence of a dedicated bus route means that the **Susquehanna Area Regional Transportation Authority (SARTA)**, which serves the Harrisburg area, is not a viable option. The nearest SARTA routes are in Harrisburg, and this is not a practical option for residents of Thompsontown.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. While these services offer a potential solution for transportation, their pricing can be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is also a concern.

Specialized medical transport services offer a more tailored approach to healthcare transportation. Companies like **CareRide** and **MedRide** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's who require assistance with mobility or who have specific medical needs. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive.

The availability of these services is crucial. The ability to transport a person with Alzheimer’s to their appointments is crucial for their health.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for transportation in Thompsontown, therefore, leans towards a moderate level of accessibility. While the presence of major highways offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges.

The impact of these transportation limitations extends beyond the individual with Alzheimer's. Caregivers face increased responsibilities, including arranging transportation, accompanying the individual to appointments, and managing the logistical complexities of healthcare access. The stress and burden on caregivers can be substantial, affecting their well-being and ability to provide adequate support.

For those considering moving to Thompsontown, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is paramount. The availability of a reliable vehicle, the ability to navigate local roads and highways, and the willingness to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services are critical factors.

The ability to access healthcare is a fundamental right. The challenges presented by transportation limitations, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's, must be carefully considered. The need for improved public transit, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and the promotion of medical transport options are crucial steps toward creating a more accessible and supportive environment for those living with Alzheimer's in Thompsontown. The community must recognize the importance of healthcare access. The well-being of residents depends on it.