17739, Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17739, Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17739 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital with a distance of 16.04 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Jersey Mills, PA (ZIP Code 17739)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering the needs of an individual facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, demands a thorough assessment of the environment. This analysis provides an "Alzheimer's Score" for the Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania area (ZIP Code 17739), focusing on transportation and healthcare access – critical factors influencing quality of life and safety. This score aims to assist in informed decision-making, acknowledging the unique vulnerabilities associated with cognitive decline.

Jersey Mills, nestled in the heart of Lycoming County, presents a rural landscape. The primary mode of transportation is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Assessing the ease of navigating to healthcare facilities is paramount.

**Drive Times & Roadways:**

Accessing specialized medical care often necessitates travel. The primary roadways serving Jersey Mills are Route 44 and Route 220. Route 44, a north-south artery, provides a direct route to Jersey Shore, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. This town houses UPMC Susquehanna Jersey Shore Hospital, offering a range of services, including emergency care and some specialized departments.

Heading south on Route 220, a longer drive, approximately 45 minutes, leads to Williamsport, the county seat. Williamsport boasts UPMC Williamsport Hospital, a more comprehensive facility. This hospital offers specialized Alzheimer's and memory care units, essential for managing the disease. The drive, however, can be challenging, particularly during inclement weather, impacting healthcare access.

The road network, while generally well-maintained, lacks the redundancy found in more urban areas. A single accident or road closure on either Route 44 or Route 220 could significantly impact access to critical medical care. The winding nature of these roads, while scenic, could also pose a challenge for individuals with cognitive impairments, potentially leading to disorientation or anxiety.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Jersey Mills are limited. The primary provider is the River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT). However, RVT's service area is predominantly centered around Williamsport. Reaching Williamsport from Jersey Mills via public transit would likely involve a combination of routes, potentially requiring transfers and significantly increasing travel time.

The RVT does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequency of service and the extended travel times associated with public transit make it a less viable option for regular healthcare appointments, especially for those with Alzheimer's, who may struggle with the complexities of navigating public transit schedules and routes. The lack of readily available public transportation is a significant concern.

**Ride-Share & Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area. However, their availability in Jersey Mills is less certain and may be subject to longer wait times, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited cellular service. This uncertainty poses a challenge for reliable transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transport services are a vital consideration. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility or cognitive impairments. Identifying and securing a reliable NEMT provider is crucial. Researching providers like Medical Transportation Services (MTS) or other local companies is essential.

**Healthcare Access & Resources:**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access involves the availability of specialized medical care. The proximity of UPMC Williamsport Hospital, with its dedicated memory care units, is a significant advantage. However, the travel time to reach this facility remains a factor.

Access to primary care physicians, neurologists, and geriatric specialists is also crucial. Determining the availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance from Jersey Mills is essential. The local community may offer support groups, caregiver resources, and other programs that can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

**Alzheimer's Score Considerations:**

The Alzheimer's Score for Jersey Mills, PA (17739) must consider the following:

* **Transportation Reliability:** The reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit.
* **Drive Times:** The travel time to healthcare facilities, particularly those with specialized memory care units.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The uncertainty of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and reliability of medical transport providers.
* **Healthcare Specialist Access:** The proximity of neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists.
* **Support Services:** The availability of local support groups, caregiver resources, and other programs.

**Moving to Jersey Mills:**

Moving to Jersey Mills with an individual with Alzheimer's requires careful planning. The rural setting offers tranquility, but the limitations in transportation and healthcare access necessitate proactive measures. Establishing a reliable transportation plan, including identifying a dependable medical transport provider, is critical.

Prioritizing the selection of a primary care physician and specialists who are familiar with Alzheimer's care is also crucial. Exploring local support groups and caregiver resources can provide invaluable assistance. Jersey Mills can be a suitable location, but a comprehensive assessment of the individual's needs and the available resources is essential to ensure a safe and supportive environment.

**Conclusion:**

The Alzheimer's Score for Jersey Mills, PA (17739) reflects a landscape with both advantages and disadvantages. The rural setting offers peace, but the limited transportation options and the drive times to specialized healthcare facilities present challenges. Careful planning, prioritizing access to healthcare, and establishing a reliable transportation system are paramount for ensuring the well-being of an individual with Alzheimer's. The score, therefore, is nuanced, emphasizing the need for individual assessment and proactive measures to mitigate the inherent challenges of the environment.