17952, Mary D, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17952, Mary D, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.82 percent of residents in 17952 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 7.56 miles from the area.

The crisp air of Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, often carries the scent of pine and coal dust, a familiar aroma for residents of ZIP Code 17952, a region encompassing the town of New Philadelphia and its surrounding areas. This write-up, an "Alzheimer's Score" analysis, will explore the complexities of transportation and healthcare access for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease within this specific geographic boundary, a critical factor for those considering a move, perhaps for someone like Mary D., seeking a supportive environment.

The core issue for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers centers on their ability to navigate the world, particularly when it comes to accessing vital medical care. The "Alzheimer's Score" considers the ease or difficulty of transportation options, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the availability of support services. For Mary D., or anyone in a similar situation, these factors are paramount.

Let's begin with the most common mode of transportation: driving. ZIP Code 17952 is primarily served by Pennsylvania Route 901, a two-lane road that winds its way through the valley, and Pennsylvania Route 209, a slightly more significant artery. The primary route to larger medical facilities, such as Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, involves navigating these roads. Drive times can vary considerably based on traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's familiarity with the route.

The journey to Geisinger St. Luke's, roughly 15 miles, typically takes around 25-35 minutes under normal conditions. However, for an individual with Alzheimer's, a 30-minute drive can feel significantly longer. The potential for getting lost, experiencing disorientation, or struggling with the physical demands of driving adds to the complexity. The road conditions, including curves and hills, can also pose challenges.

Public transportation, an essential consideration for those who can no longer drive, presents a more limited picture in 17952. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. However, the frequency of routes and the geographic coverage are limited. For instance, the STS Route 32, which runs between Pottsville and Tamaqua, might offer a potential connection, but the schedules are often infrequent, and the routes may not directly serve all areas within the ZIP Code.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transportation for individuals with Alzheimer's is a critical concern. While the STS is mandated to provide ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair accessibility, the cognitive challenges associated with Alzheimer's can make navigating the bus system difficult. Understanding schedules, recognizing bus stops, and managing the physical demands of boarding and disembarking can be overwhelming. For Mary D., the independence offered by public transport might be a double-edged sword.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in rural areas like 17952 is often limited. The wait times for a ride can be significantly longer, and the cost can be prohibitive, especially for frequent medical appointments. This limitation poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's who rely on alternative transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like LifeLine Ambulance and MedStar Ambulance may operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is another crucial factor in the "Alzheimer's Score." Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg provides a range of medical services, including neurology and geriatric care. However, the distance and transportation challenges, as previously discussed, can make accessing these services difficult. Other smaller clinics and physician offices may be located in the area, offering primary care and specialized services.

The availability of support services within the community is equally important. Senior centers, home healthcare agencies, and Alzheimer's support groups can provide invaluable assistance to individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. These resources can offer respite care, educational programs, and emotional support. The presence and accessibility of these services contribute significantly to the overall "Alzheimer's Score."

For Mary D., the decision to move to 17952, or any other location, should involve a thorough assessment of these factors. The "Alzheimer's Score" should be viewed as a dynamic assessment, considering the individual's specific needs and abilities. If Mary D. is still capable of driving, the ease of navigating the local roads and the proximity of healthcare facilities are important. If she relies on alternative transportation, the availability and accessibility of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport become critical.

The overall picture in 17952 suggests a moderate level of healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. The availability of healthcare facilities is reasonable, but the transportation challenges, particularly for those who cannot drive, are significant. The limited public transportation options and the potential for limited ride-sharing services could pose a barrier. The availability of medical transportation services and support services can mitigate some of these challenges, but the cost and availability of these services should be carefully considered.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimer's Score" for 17952 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers some advantages, such as a relatively close hospital and the potential for medical transport, the transportation limitations, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle, present a significant challenge. For Mary D., or anyone considering a move to this area, a thorough evaluation of these factors is essential to ensure that they can access the healthcare and support services they need to maintain their well-being. The decision should be based on a careful assessment of individual needs, capabilities, and the available resources within the community.