17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.48 percent of residents in 17930 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 3.17 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17930

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals facing cognitive decline, demands a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. This "Alzheimer's Score" for ZIP code 17930, encompassing the charming village of Cumbola and its surrounding areas, analyzes the available transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare accessibility. This assessment is crucial for anyone considering moving to Cumbola or supporting a loved one in the area, as efficient and reliable transportation is paramount for managing Alzheimer's disease and other health needs.

The primary challenge in ZIP code 17930 lies in its rural character. Cumbola, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Schuylkill County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, yet this serenity translates to limited public transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, making healthcare access heavily dependent on driving capabilities and the availability of family or friends to provide rides.

**Driving Dynamics:**

For residents of Cumbola, the nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Pottsville, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. The primary route is via **Route 901**, a winding road that connects Cumbola to the county seat. This route, while scenic, can be challenging during inclement weather, posing a potential hazard for individuals with impaired cognitive function or those reliant on others for driving.

Another option involves traveling via **Route 209** and then connecting to **Route 61**, which also leads to Pottsville. This route offers a slightly longer, but potentially less challenging, drive depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. The condition of these roads, including potential for potholes or narrow lanes, must be considered, especially when assessing the safety of driving for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Beyond Pottsville, more specialized healthcare services may necessitate travel to larger cities like Reading or Allentown. These trips involve significantly longer drives, often exceeding an hour, utilizing highways such as **Interstate 81** and the **Schuylkill Expressway (I-76)**. These extended travel times, coupled with the complexities of navigating highways, increase the risk of disorientation and fatigue for individuals with cognitive impairments.

**Public Transportation Limitations:**

Public transportation options in ZIP code 17930 are severely limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout Schuylkill County, but service to Cumbola is infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. Route numbers and schedules are subject to change, so it is essential to verify current routes and times with the STS directly.

The STS buses, while offering some level of accessibility, may not fully meet the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and priority seating, are available on some buses, but the infrequency of service and the potential for long wait times can be problematic. Navigating bus schedules, transfers, and unfamiliar routes can be overwhelming for those with cognitive impairments, making this option less than ideal.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Pottsville area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, their availability in Cumbola and the surrounding areas can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including LifeLine Ambulance and Schuylkill EMS. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility challenges and ensuring the safe arrival at medical appointments. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare facilities in the immediate vicinity of Cumbola is limited. Residents typically rely on the facilities in Pottsville, including Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital and various clinics. While these facilities offer a range of medical services, the distance and transportation challenges can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The absence of readily available transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and compromised healthcare outcomes. This underscores the critical need for careful planning and support for individuals with Alzheimer's in Cumbola.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

Enhancing healthcare access in ZIP code 17930 requires a multi-faceted approach. Increasing the frequency and reach of STS bus service, particularly to medical facilities, would be a significant step. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also prove beneficial.

Expanding the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability is crucial. Community initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs, could provide additional support for individuals with limited transportation options.

Furthermore, the development of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, can mitigate the challenges of transportation and improve healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for ZIP code 17930 reveals significant challenges in healthcare access due to limited transportation options. While the tranquility of Cumbola offers undeniable appeal, the remoteness and reliance on personal vehicles create hurdles for individuals with Alzheimer's. Careful consideration of driving capabilities, the availability of family support, and the potential need for ride-sharing or medical transportation services is essential. Proactive planning, including exploring available resources and advocating for improved transportation infrastructure, is critical to ensure that residents of Cumbola receive the healthcare they need and deserve. Moving to Cumbola requires a thorough assessment of transportation and healthcare access; it is a commitment to providing the best possible care.