17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17933 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 6.28 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Friedensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17933)

Considering a move to the quaint borough of Friedensburg, Pennsylvania, with a loved one facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease requires meticulous planning. This Alzheimer's Score assessment delves into the critical aspect of **healthcare access**, specifically focusing on **transportation** options within and around ZIP code 17933. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a detailed picture to aid in informed decision-making.

Friedensburg, nestled in Schuylkill County, offers a tranquil setting. However, its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of how easily medical appointments can be reached. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape is paramount for maintaining quality of life and ensuring timely access to crucial healthcare services for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of **transportation** for many residents will be personal vehicles. Accessing specialized Alzheimer's care often requires travel to larger towns and cities. From Friedensburg, a drive to Pottsville, the county seat, is relatively straightforward. The journey typically involves taking Route 443 East, a two-lane road that winds through the rolling hills. Expect a drive time of approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

For specialized medical care, such as neurology appointments or memory care centers, individuals may need to travel further afield. Route 61, a major north-south artery, provides access to Reading, Pennsylvania, about a 45-minute to one-hour drive south. This route, though more heavily trafficked, offers a direct connection. The Schuylkill Expressway (I-76), a major east-west highway, is accessible via Route 61, opening up options for Philadelphia-area healthcare providers. However, this journey can easily exceed two hours, factoring in traffic and potential delays.

The scenic, but sometimes winding, Route 895 offers an alternative route to the east, connecting to Route 309, which leads towards Allentown. This drive is approximately an hour and a half, offering another avenue for accessing a wider range of medical facilities.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Careful Planning**

Public **transportation** options in Friedensburg are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout Schuylkill County. However, service frequency and route coverage can be challenging, especially for those with cognitive impairments. Bus routes primarily serve the larger towns, and direct routes from Friedensburg may be scarce.

The specific routes serving Friedensburg are minimal. STS Route 30, for instance, might provide some connectivity to Pottsville. However, it's crucial to confirm the schedule, route details, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features of each bus. Confirming the presence of ramps, lifts, and audio-visual announcements is essential.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the complexities of navigating public transit can be overwhelming. Waiting times, route changes, and the potential for getting lost pose significant risks. Therefore, relying solely on public **transportation** is often impractical.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary, especially in rural areas like Friedensburg. While they offer a convenient alternative to driving, surge pricing during peak hours or limited driver availability could pose challenges. Pre-booking rides and carefully planning appointment times are essential.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transport provide non-emergency medical **transportation** for individuals requiring assistance. These services typically offer door-to-door service, assisting with mobility and ensuring safe and comfortable travel to medical appointments.

These services often require advance booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing. However, the peace of mind and specialized care they provide can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Healthcare Access: Key Considerations**

The proximity to healthcare facilities is a critical factor. While Friedensburg itself has limited medical services, Pottsville offers a range of options, including hospitals, primary care physicians, and specialists. Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital is a major healthcare provider in the region.

The availability of specialized Alzheimer's care is crucial. Memory care units, geriatric specialists, and support groups are essential resources. Researching the availability of these services in Pottsville, Reading, and the surrounding areas is vital. Consider the distance to these facilities and the ease of **transportation**.

**Moving to Friedensburg: A Balanced Perspective**

Choosing to move to Friedensburg with a loved one affected by Alzheimer's requires careful consideration. The tranquility and community spirit of the borough are appealing, but the limitations in **transportation** and healthcare access must be addressed.

The Alzheimer's Score for Friedensburg, ZIP code 17933, reflects a mixed picture. While the drive to Pottsville is manageable, accessing specialized care requires longer journeys. Public **transportation** options are limited, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical **transportation**.

Prioritize the following:

* **Assess Driving Abilities:** Evaluate the individual's ability to drive safely.
* **Explore Medical Transport:** Investigate medical **transportation** options and costs.
* **Plan Appointments:** Schedule appointments strategically, considering travel times and traffic.
* **Build a Support Network:** Establish a support system of family, friends, or caregivers to assist with **transportation** and appointments.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify healthcare providers specializing in Alzheimer's care and their accessibility.

Friedensburg can be a wonderful place to live. However, a proactive and informed approach to **transportation** and healthcare access is essential to ensure the well-being and quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's. This assessment provides a foundation for making informed decisions about **moving to Friedensburg**.