The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17840, Locust Gap, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
36.26 percent of residents in 17840 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 14.54 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 17840, Locust Gap, Pennsylvania
Alzheimers Score | 94 |
---|---|
People Score | 93 |
Provider Score | 83 |
Hospital Score | 60 |
Travel Score | 39 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 17840 | Locust Gap | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 4.40 | 4.40 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 70.33 | 70.33 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 25.27 | 25.27 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 17840, Locust Gap, Pennsylvania
## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17840
Evaluating the suitability of a location for individuals living with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia necessitates a comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility. This "Alzheimer's Score" for ZIP Code 17840, encompassing the Locust Gap area of Pennsylvania, meticulously examines transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for ensuring timely and consistent healthcare access. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a detailed picture for families considering a move to this area.
The primary concern is the ability to reach healthcare providers. In a region like Locust Gap, where reliance on personal vehicles is often high, drive times become paramount. The closest major healthcare hub is Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a significant regional hospital. Traveling to Danville from Locust Gap typically involves navigating Route 54, a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic, especially during peak hours. The drive, covering approximately 20 miles, usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific starting point within the ZIP code.
Further healthcare options are available in Shamokin, a smaller town closer to Locust Gap. Reaching the facilities there generally involves traveling along Route 61, another major road that sees considerable traffic. The drive is shorter, around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the exact location within 17840 and the destination in Shamokin. This proximity offers a potentially quicker route for routine appointments and emergencies, although the available services may be more limited than those at Geisinger.
Public transportation presents another facet of the healthcare access equation. The Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides limited bus service within the county. While the NCTA offers routes that may pass through or near Locust Gap, the frequency of these routes and their direct connection to medical facilities are critical. The NCTA does offer ADA-compliant services, including accessible vehicles and trained drivers to assist individuals with mobility challenges. However, the limited schedule and potential for longer travel times due to multiple stops and transfers need careful consideration.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability depends on driver density and demand. While these services can provide a convenient door-to-door transportation option, especially for those unable to drive, the cost can be a significant factor, and reliability needs to be confirmed. The lack of consistent service, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can pose a challenge.
Medical transportation services are specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) to appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and carrying medical equipment. The availability of these services and their coverage area should be verified. The cost and the scheduling process should be considered.
The overall Alzheimer's Score for transportation in 17840 highlights the importance of a well-defined transportation plan. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, require careful planning and consideration of traffic patterns. The availability of public transportation, though present, requires detailed investigation of routes, schedules, and accessibility features. The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but their reliability and cost must be carefully assessed.
Individuals considering a move to Locust Gap, or assisting loved ones with such a decision, should prioritize a thorough evaluation of these transportation options. This includes identifying the specific healthcare providers needed, determining the frequency of appointments, and assessing the individual's ability to navigate the available transportation choices. A pre-move visit, including a trial run of various transportation options, is highly recommended. This allows for a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities of accessing healthcare in the area.
The suitability of 17840 for individuals with Alzheimer's depends on the individual's needs and the family's ability to support their transportation requirements. While the area offers some healthcare access options, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variability of ride-sharing services necessitate a proactive and well-considered approach. The decision to move to Locust Gap should be made only after a comprehensive evaluation of the transportation landscape and a clear plan for ensuring consistent and reliable access to healthcare.
The success of a move to Locust Gap for an individual with Alzheimer's hinges on a practical and well-planned transportation strategy. This plan must consider the individual's needs, the available resources, and the potential challenges of accessing healthcare in this rural setting. The key to maximizing healthcare access is thorough research, proactive planning, and a commitment to adapting to changing circumstances.
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