17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.25 percent of residents in 17737 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Muncy with a distance of 5.14 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Hughesville, PA (ZIP Code 17737)

The charming borough of Hughesville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Lycoming County, offers a tranquil, rural setting. For those contemplating a move to this area, particularly individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This write-up, a specialized "Alzheimer's Score" analysis, delves into the realities of transportation and healthcare access within and around ZIP Code 17737, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented.

The primary concern for those with Alzheimer's is the ability to reach medical appointments safely and reliably. This involves a multifaceted assessment of transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation resources. The following sections provide a detailed evaluation, offering insights into the practicalities of healthcare access for residents of Hughesville.

**Drive Times and Road Networks: The Foundation of Mobility**

Hughesville's location, while offering a peaceful atmosphere, necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare needs. The primary thoroughfare, **Pennsylvania Route 405**, serves as the town's lifeline, connecting residents to surrounding communities and essential services. Heading south on Route 405, the drive to the UPMC Muncy hospital, a critical healthcare provider, is approximately 15 minutes, a manageable commute.

However, this drive, like any, presents potential challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The need for consistent navigation, particularly in unfamiliar environments, can become overwhelming. The route, while relatively straightforward, involves navigating intersections and potential traffic, especially during peak hours. A driver's cognitive abilities may fluctuate, making even short trips demanding.

Further healthcare options require longer drives. To access the larger UPMC Williamsport hospital, a comprehensive medical facility offering specialized care, the journey involves traveling on **Route 405** south to **Interstate 180** west. This drive, typically taking around 30 to 40 minutes, presents greater navigational complexity. The use of a GPS system, coupled with pre-planned routes and clear instructions, is crucial.

The importance of reliable transportation cannot be overstated. Maintaining independence while managing the disease requires a well-defined plan. Regular check-ups, medication management, and specialist appointments are critical for effective care. These needs highlight the importance of evaluating the practicality of travel for those considering Hughesville.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, ADA Considerations**

Public transportation options in Hughesville and the surrounding areas are limited, a significant factor in the "Alzheimer's Score." The Lycoming County Transportation Services (LCTS) provides demand-response transportation, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service, while available, may not always be ideal for individuals with unpredictable needs or those requiring immediate medical attention.

LCTS operates under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, offering accessible vehicles and services for individuals with disabilities. However, the scheduling process and potential wait times can present difficulties for those with cognitive impairments. The lack of fixed-route bus services within Hughesville further restricts public transit options.

For those with Alzheimer's, the complexity of scheduling, coordinating rides, and navigating potential delays adds to the stress of healthcare access. The availability of accessible transportation is a crucial consideration, but the limitations of the public transit system in Hughesville necessitate a reliance on other modes of transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of these services in Hughesville itself can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliance on a smartphone app and the potential for unfamiliar drivers present challenges for those with Alzheimer's.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized option. These services often offer trained drivers, assistance with mobility, and a focus on patient comfort. While the availability of these services in Hughesville is limited, it is important to research and identify any local providers.

Companies like Senior Life Solutions and other local medical transport providers are often available. These services are often pre-arranged, which is important for those who have Alzheimer's. These services are often more expensive than other options, but they can provide a vital lifeline.

**The "Alzheimer's Score" and Considerations for Moving to Hughesville**

When assessing the "Alzheimer's Score" for Hughesville, the following factors must be considered: the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while generally manageable, require careful planning and consideration of the individual's cognitive abilities.

For families considering a move to Hughesville, a thorough evaluation of transportation options is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of reliable drivers, the potential for utilizing ride-sharing or medical transportation services, and the need for support from family members or caregivers. The proximity of healthcare facilities, while important, is only one aspect of the equation.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a definitive rating, but rather a framework for evaluating the practicalities of healthcare access. The score highlights the importance of proactive planning, the need for support systems, and the potential challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's in a rural setting.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Hughesville offers a tranquil environment, but healthcare access requires careful consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare planning. For those with Alzheimer's, this involves establishing a reliable transportation plan, identifying potential support networks, and researching available medical transportation options.

Moving to Hughesville requires a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape. The "Alzheimer's Score" emphasizes the importance of pre-planning and the need for a support system to ensure safe and reliable access to healthcare. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals and families can make informed decisions and navigate the challenges of healthcare access in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.