17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.06 percent of residents in 17813 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 33.23 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17813 (Beavertown, PA)

Considering a move to the charming, rural community of Beavertown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17813)? If you or a loved one are navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, understanding the accessibility of healthcare becomes paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" assesses the ease of transportation to medical facilities, crucial for managing appointments, treatments, and ongoing care. The score considers factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. This detailed analysis will help you evaluate the practical aspects of healthcare access in Beavertown, fostering informed decisions about relocation and care planning.

Beavertown, nestled in Snyder County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its rural setting presents unique challenges concerning transportation and healthcare access. The availability of reliable transportation is directly linked to the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's. This assessment prioritizes the practical realities of navigating the healthcare landscape, ensuring a clear picture of the available resources.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation in Beavertown is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The road network, while scenic, requires careful consideration for those with cognitive impairments. Driving times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by the location of these facilities and the prevailing traffic conditions.

The closest significant healthcare hub is Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, approximately 20 miles east of Beavertown. The most direct route involves traveling east on Route 522, a two-lane highway that winds through rolling hills and farmland. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes roughly 30-40 minutes. However, weather, road construction, and the driver's cognitive abilities can significantly impact travel time. Route 522 can be challenging for those with impaired driving skills, due to its winding nature and potential for encountering slow-moving farm vehicles.

Alternatively, one could travel north on Route 35, then east on Route 192 to reach Evangelical Community Hospital. This route is slightly longer, adding approximately 10 minutes to the drive. Route 35 is a more direct route, but it does involve a greater volume of traffic, particularly during peak hours. Route 192 is a rural road with limited shoulders, requiring increased caution.

Another option is to travel south on Route 522 and then east on Route 11/15 towards the Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately 35 miles away. This route is generally a smoother drive, as it involves a portion of a divided highway. However, the drive time is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

For routine appointments or specialized care, the longer drive times to these facilities must be factored in. The ability to recognize landmarks, maintain focus, and manage the complexities of driving becomes critical. Consider the need for a designated driver, the potential for increased anxiety, and the need for frequent rest stops.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Reality**

Public transportation options in Beavertown and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. Snyder County does offer a public transportation service, the Snyder County Transportation Authority (SCTA), but it is primarily designed to serve the needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The SCTA operates on a demand-response basis, meaning that riders must schedule their trips in advance. This system requires advanced planning and may not be suitable for individuals with Alzheimer's who require spontaneous or frequent trips. The SCTA’s services are available within Snyder County, but trips outside of the county are limited.

The SCTA vehicles are generally ADA-accessible, with ramps and other features designed to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the service is limited in its reach, and it is not a reliable option for accessing healthcare facilities outside of the immediate area.

The lack of robust public transportation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for healthcare access in Beavertown.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the larger cities of the region, but their availability in Beavertown is inconsistent. The wait times for a ride can be lengthy, and the reliability of the service is questionable. This makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments or emergencies.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, offer a more reliable alternative. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers.

Several medical transport providers serve the Beavertown area. These companies include:

* **MedStar Ambulance Service:** Provides ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation services.
* **AmbuCare Ambulance Service:** Offers non-emergency medical transport.
* **CareTrans:** Specializes in non-emergency medical transportation for individuals with disabilities.

These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs. The availability of these services can be a lifeline for individuals with Alzheimer's who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

The availability of healthcare facilities in the immediate vicinity of Beavertown is limited. While the community has a local clinic, it may not offer the specialized care required for managing Alzheimer's disease. The nearest specialist care, including neurologists, geriatricians, and memory care specialists, is located at Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg or Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.

The distance to these facilities, coupled with the limited transportation options, presents a significant challenge. Individuals with Alzheimer's require regular medical appointments, medication management, and potentially, specialized therapies. The ability to access these services efficiently is critical for maintaining their health and well-being.

For those considering moving to Beavertown, the availability of a support network is paramount. Family members, friends, or professional caregivers can assist with transportation, appointment scheduling, and providing emotional support. The presence of a strong support system can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Alzheimer's Score Summary**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for healthcare access in Beavertown (ZIP Code 17813) is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. However, the availability of medical transport services and the presence of nearby healthcare facilities offer some degree of accessibility.

Before moving to Beavertown, carefully evaluate the transportation needs of the individual with Alzheimer's. Consider the availability of a reliable driver, the feasibility of using medical transport services, and the potential for increased travel time and associated costs.

Careful planning and a strong support system are crucial for ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's can access the healthcare they need while living in the charming, yet rural, community of Beavertown. This assessment provides a framework for making informed decisions about healthcare access and supports a smoother transition for those considering moving to Beavertown.