17224, Fort Loudon, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17224, Fort Loudon, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.48 percent of residents in 17224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 5.30 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17224

This assessment, tailored for individuals and families considering a move to Fort Loudon, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17224), provides an Alzheimer's Score based on healthcare accessibility. The core focus is on the ease of transportation to vital medical resources, a critical factor for those managing or at risk of cognitive decline. We will explore the available transportation options, considering their suitability for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, and assess the overall accessibility of healthcare facilities within and around this rural community. The goal is to empower informed decision-making, ensuring that healthcare needs are met with dignity and ease.

Fort Loudon, nestled in Franklin County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. Its rural character means that healthcare facilities are not immediately at your doorstep. This necessitates careful consideration of transportation options, especially for those with mobility limitations or cognitive impairments. The Alzheimer's Score is designed to illuminate these considerations, providing a realistic picture of the commute to healthcare.

**Driving the Landscape:**

The primary mode of transportation in Fort Loudon is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfare is **U.S. Route 30**, a vital east-west artery that connects Fort Loudon to Chambersburg, the county seat, and beyond. Traveling east on Route 30, you’ll find the **WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital**, a comprehensive medical center offering a wide range of services, including specialized geriatric care and neurology. The drive is approximately 20 minutes, a manageable distance for most. However, traffic, particularly during peak hours, can increase this commute.

To the west, Route 30 offers access to other healthcare providers, though the travel time may increase. Navigating this route requires attention to detail, especially for those with early-stage Alzheimer's. The **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)** is another option, although access points are not immediately adjacent to Fort Loudon. This can offer a faster route to larger medical centers in Harrisburg or Pittsburgh, but tolls and the complexity of highway driving need to be factored in.

Smaller roads, like **PA Route 75**, offer alternative routes, but they are often winding and may not be suitable for individuals with cognitive impairments. These roads require a higher degree of navigational skill and awareness. The condition of these roads can also vary, potentially impacting ride comfort and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Fort Loudon are limited. The **Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA)** provides bus services, but their routes and frequency are restricted, particularly in rural areas. There is no direct public transit route to Chambersburg Hospital from Fort Loudon. The FCTA does offer a demand-response service, which requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

The FCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the reliance on pre-booking and the potential for longer travel times can pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may require immediate access to care or find it difficult to adhere to rigid schedules.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Franklin County, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas like Fort Loudon. Waiting times can be longer, and the cost can be a factor. This option may be suitable for some individuals, but it requires access to a smartphone and the ability to navigate the app.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **Care Ride** and **First Transit** may operate in the area, providing door-to-door transportation for medical appointments. These services often employ trained drivers who are experienced in assisting individuals with mobility issues and cognitive impairments. However, they require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other options.

**Healthcare Access: A Balancing Act:**

The availability of healthcare facilities in Fort Loudon itself is limited. This means that residents must rely on healthcare providers in nearby towns, primarily Chambersburg. The distance to Chambersburg, while manageable, necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options.

The **WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital** is the primary healthcare hub, offering a wide range of services, including primary care, specialists, and emergency care. The hospital has a dedicated geriatric care unit, which can be a valuable resource for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

Other healthcare providers in Chambersburg include private practices, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics. Access to these facilities requires careful consideration of transportation, as well as the individual's ability to navigate appointments and manage their own care.

**Assessing the Alzheimer's Score:**

Based on the available information, the Alzheimer's Score for healthcare access in Fort Loudon (ZIP code 17224) is moderate. While the drive to Chambersburg Hospital is relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides some flexibility, but their reliability and cost must be considered.

The score reflects the need for careful planning and proactive management of transportation needs. Families considering a move to Fort Loudon should thoroughly assess the individual's ability to manage transportation, the availability of support services, and the potential costs associated with healthcare access.

**Moving to Fort Loudon: Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Fort Loudon, it is crucial to evaluate their ability to drive or their access to reliable transportation. If driving is not an option, the availability of family support, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation is essential.

Families should also research the availability of geriatric care services, memory care programs, and support groups in the area. The ability to access these resources is critical for managing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

Fort Loudon offers a peaceful, rural setting. However, the relative isolation and limited healthcare access necessitate careful planning and proactive management of healthcare needs. This Alzheimer's Score provides a framework for evaluating these considerations, helping individuals and families make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.