17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.94 percent of residents in 17888 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 13.86 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17888 (Wilburton, PA)

The quaint borough of Wilburton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Northumberland County, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. Assessing the "Alzheimer's Score" for this community requires a deep dive into the critical factors influencing healthcare access, particularly the availability and practicality of transportation options. This analysis will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the landscape for those considering or already residing in ZIP code 17888.

The primary concern for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers is consistent, reliable access to medical appointments. Regular check-ups with neurologists, therapists, and other specialists are vital for managing the disease and maintaining quality of life. The ability to reach these appointments safely and efficiently is paramount.

Wilburton's location, while offering scenic beauty, introduces geographical hurdles. The primary roadways impacting transportation are Pennsylvania Route 487, running north-south, and Pennsylvania Route 901, traversing east-west. These routes, though scenic, can become congested during peak hours or hampered by inclement weather, adding to the stress of healthcare commutes.

For residents driving to healthcare facilities, drive times are a significant consideration. The closest major hospital, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, is approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This journey typically involves using PA-487 to PA-54, then onto Interstate 80 East or Route 11. Smaller clinics and doctor's offices might be located in Shamokin or Mount Carmel, reducing drive times to around 15-25 minutes, utilizing PA-901 or PA-487. However, these facilities may have limited specialized services.

The impact of these drive times on an individual with Alzheimer's can be substantial. The cognitive decline associated with the disease can make navigating unfamiliar routes, managing traffic, and remembering appointments challenging. Caregivers often bear the burden of driving, adding to their already demanding responsibilities.

Public transportation options in Wilburton are extremely limited. The local public transit authority, primarily serving the Shamokin area, offers minimal services to Wilburton. There are no direct bus routes connecting Wilburton to Danville or other major healthcare hubs. This lack of public transportation significantly restricts healthcare access for those unable to drive or who do not have access to a caregiver with a vehicle.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not consistent, particularly in rural areas like Wilburton. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand, potentially leading to delays or cancellations, which is a major concern for time-sensitive medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, are another avenue to consider. Several companies operate in the region, offering services ranging from basic transportation to wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical personnel. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking, adding complexity to scheduling appointments.

The availability of specialized medical transportation is a crucial factor in the Alzheimer's Score. These services provide a lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. However, the cost and logistical challenges associated with these services can create barriers to healthcare access, especially for those with limited financial resources.

For individuals considering moving to Wilburton, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The lack of convenient public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation necessitate careful planning. Families should assess their transportation needs and explore all available options before making a move.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on the few public transportation options that may be available are vital. These features include wheelchair accessibility, audio-visual announcements, and priority seating. However, the limited scope of public transit in Wilburton renders these features largely irrelevant for residents seeking healthcare access.

The Alzheimer's Score for Wilburton, PA (ZIP code 17888) is significantly impacted by the challenges associated with transportation. The long drive times to major healthcare facilities, the lack of reliable public transit, and the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create considerable obstacles for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

The overall score reflects a need for increased investment in transportation infrastructure and services. Addressing the transportation challenges in Wilburton is critical to ensuring healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. This could involve expanding public transit routes, incentivizing ride-sharing services, or providing financial assistance for medical transportation.

The success of any intervention depends on a collaborative approach. Local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations must work together to develop and implement sustainable transportation solutions. This collaborative effort will improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

In conclusion, while Wilburton offers a peaceful environment, the transportation challenges create significant hurdles for accessing healthcare. The Alzheimer's Score reflects the need for improvements in transportation infrastructure and services to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's can receive the medical care they need in a timely and efficient manner. This is a critical consideration for anyone considering moving to Wilburton or already residing in the area.