17252, Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17252, Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.35 percent of residents in 17252 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 11.52 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17252 (Saint Thomas, PA)

The decision to relocate, particularly when considering the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, demands meticulous planning. This analysis provides a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" for healthcare access in ZIP code 17252, Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania, focusing on the critical element of transportation. Navigating the complexities of healthcare appointments, therapy sessions, and specialist visits necessitates a reliable and accessible transportation network. This write-up delves into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities for individuals and families considering a move to this area.

ZIP code 17252, a predominantly rural area, presents unique considerations regarding healthcare access. The primary challenge lies in the relative distance to specialized medical facilities. While the community offers a sense of tranquility, the trade-off often involves longer travel times for essential healthcare needs. Understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's, as their cognitive and physical limitations can significantly impact their ability to navigate unfamiliar routes or manage complex travel arrangements.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The cornerstone of transportation in 17252 is personal vehicle travel. The primary roads serving the area include Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south artery, and U.S. Route 30 (US-30), an east-west thoroughfare. Access to I-81 is relatively convenient, offering a direct route to larger medical centers in Chambersburg (approximately a 20-minute drive) and Harrisburg (approximately a 1-hour drive). However, the reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful consideration of the individual's driving capabilities and the potential need for alternative transportation options.

Local roads, such as PA-16 and PA-997, provide access to nearby towns and healthcare providers. However, these roads can be winding and subject to varying traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. The condition of these roads, including potential for potholes and lack of sidewalks, also presents challenges for individuals with mobility issues. The drive to the nearest hospital, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, averages around 20 minutes, depending on traffic. The drive to the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a larger facility with specialized Alzheimer's care, takes approximately an hour and fifteen minutes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in 17252 are limited, which significantly impacts the "Alzheimer's Score." The primary provider is the Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA). The FCTA offers fixed-route bus services within Chambersburg and surrounding areas, but the routes are infrequent and do not directly serve Saint Thomas. This lack of direct public transit severely restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or who require assistance.

The FCTA does provide a demand-response service, known as "Shared Ride," which requires advance booking and is designed for individuals with disabilities or those unable to use fixed-route services. This service is ADA-compliant, offering accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the limited availability and the need for pre-planning can pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience unpredictable needs or require immediate medical attention. The Shared Ride service, while crucial, is not a readily available or easily accessible option for spontaneous healthcare needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing, including potential wait times and driver availability, necessitates careful planning and consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for individuals requiring assistance with healthcare transportation. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve trained personnel and accessible vehicles, catering to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. However, the cost of NEMT services can be substantial, and the availability of these services may be limited, particularly during peak demand. Researching and securing reliable medical transportation is essential for ensuring healthcare access in 17252.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

The proximity to healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, located approximately 20 minutes away, offers a range of medical services, including primary care, specialist consultations, and emergency care. The hospital has a memory care clinic. However, specialized Alzheimer's care may require travel to larger facilities, such as the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

The availability of home healthcare services is also a critical consideration. Home healthcare providers can provide in-home medical care, personal care assistance, and medication management, which can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's. The availability of these services in 17252 should be thoroughly investigated.

**Alzheimer's Score Assessment:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options and healthcare access in 17252, the "Alzheimer's Score" reflects the challenges and opportunities for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose significant hurdles. The need for pre-planning and the potential for increased travel times necessitate careful consideration.

The score is influenced by the availability of medical transport services, the proximity to healthcare facilities, and the availability of home healthcare services. The score would be improved with increased public transit options, improved ride-sharing reliability, and the presence of a dedicated Alzheimer's care facility within the immediate vicinity.

**Recommendations for Moving to Saint Thomas:**

For individuals and families considering a move to 17252, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is paramount. Prioritize the following:

* **Evaluate Driving Capabilities:** Assess the individual's ability to drive safely and independently. If driving is no longer feasible, explore alternative transportation options.
* **Research Medical Transport:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services in the area.
* **Explore Home Healthcare:** Identify and secure home healthcare providers to provide in-home support and care.
* **Plan for Appointments:** Schedule medical appointments well in advance, allowing ample time for transportation arrangements.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** Factor in the distance to healthcare facilities when choosing a residence.
* **Utilize Support Services:** Connect with local support groups and organizations that provide resources and assistance to individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Moving to Saint Thomas, PA, requires careful planning and a realistic understanding of the transportation landscape. By proactively addressing these transportation challenges and leveraging available resources, individuals and families can enhance healthcare access and improve the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer's. The "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a guide to navigate these complexities, ensuring a smoother transition and a supportive environment for individuals and their caregivers.