17356, Red Lion, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17356, Red Lion, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.20 percent of residents in 17356 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan York Hospital with a distance of 6.43 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17356

The quaint borough of Red Lion, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 17356, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities for residents, especially those navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, focusing on the intricacies of transportation within and beyond this locale. For individuals and families considering a move to Red Lion, understanding these transportation options becomes paramount in ensuring timely and accessible healthcare.

The very nature of Alzheimer's, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, necessitates regular medical appointments, specialized therapies, and potential hospitalizations. This underscores the critical importance of efficient and reliable transportation. The Alzheimer's Score evaluates the availability, accessibility, and affordability of various transportation modalities, providing a comprehensive overview for those seeking to establish or maintain healthcare access in Red Lion.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Red Lion is Pennsylvania Route 24, a major thoroughfare connecting the borough to York, the nearest city with comprehensive healthcare facilities. Driving to UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, a crucial healthcare provider, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey involves navigating Route 24, which can experience congestion during peak commuting hours. Another option is to travel on Interstate 83, offering a faster, albeit potentially longer, route to York. This involves a brief drive on local roads to access the interstate.

The availability of personal vehicles remains a cornerstone of transportation for many Red Lion residents. However, the progression of Alzheimer's often impacts driving capabilities, necessitating alternative solutions. For those unable to drive, or who need to transport a loved one, understanding the available public transportation options is essential.

York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides limited public transit services in the Red Lion area. The primary route serving Red Lion is Route 83, which connects the borough to York. This route offers fixed-route bus service, with designated stops throughout Red Lion and York. However, the frequency of service on Route 83 may be limited, and the travel time to York can be significantly longer than driving. YCTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations.

Unfortunately, the public transportation landscape in Red Lion presents challenges. The limited frequency of service, coupled with the potential for longer travel times, can pose significant obstacles for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The need for careful planning and coordination becomes paramount when relying on public transit for healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option in Red Lion. While these services provide on-demand transportation, their availability can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals with medical conditions, represent a specialized transportation option. Companies like Senior Ride and other local providers offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained staff to assist passengers. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals with Alzheimer's, providing a safe and comfortable transportation experience. However, medical transportation services often come with a higher cost compared to public transit or ride-sharing.

The Alzheimer's Score also considers the proximity to various healthcare facilities. While UPMC Memorial Hospital in York is the primary hospital option, other healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians, specialists, and rehabilitation centers, are located within and around Red Lion. Accessing these facilities may involve shorter travel distances, potentially alleviating some of the transportation challenges.

The choice of healthcare provider also influences transportation needs. Some facilities offer transportation assistance or partner with transportation providers to facilitate patient access. Exploring these options can be beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

For individuals considering a move to Red Lion, the Alzheimer's Score highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration of transportation needs. While the borough offers a pleasant living environment, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges for healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate proactive planning and the potential utilization of medical transportation services.

The cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, public transit fares, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation expenses, must be factored into the overall healthcare budget. This financial consideration is crucial for ensuring sustainable healthcare access.

Caregivers play a vital role in navigating the transportation landscape. They may need to coordinate transportation arrangements, accompany individuals to appointments, and provide assistance during travel. The availability of caregiver support, including family members, friends, or professional caregivers, can significantly impact the ease of healthcare access.

The Alzheimer's Score for Red Lion, ZIP code 17356, provides a nuanced perspective on the complexities of healthcare access. While the borough offers a welcoming community, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges that require careful consideration. By understanding the available options, planning proactively, and leveraging available resources, individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers can navigate the transportation landscape and maintain access to essential healthcare services. The ability to navigate the transportation options will be a key factor in determining the success of moving to Red Lion.