17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.03 percent of residents in 17965 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 1.47 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Port Carbon (ZIP Code 17965)

Considering a move to Port Carbon, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17965), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for someone facing Alzheimer's disease? This analysis, focusing on transportation options, aims to provide a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score," evaluating the ease and practicality of reaching medical appointments. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, offering insights into the challenges and possibilities of navigating healthcare within this specific community.

Port Carbon, nestled in the Schuylkill County landscape, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. Its location, while offering a tranquil setting, influences healthcare access. The area's demographic, including an aging population, necessitates a careful examination of transportation infrastructure and services tailored to individuals with cognitive impairments.

**Drive Time and Road Navigation**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Port Carbon is undoubtedly personal vehicle. The primary thoroughfare is Route 209, a vital artery connecting the borough to surrounding towns and medical facilities. Driving times to key healthcare providers are crucial for the Alzheimer's Score.

Saint Luke's Miners Campus in Coaldale, approximately 15 miles away, represents a significant healthcare hub. Driving to this facility via Route 209 typically takes between 25 and 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the driver's familiarity with the route. The Schuylkill Medical Center in Pottsville, a major regional hospital, is about 5 miles away. Travel time via Route 209 and West Market Street generally ranges from 10 to 20 minutes.

These drive times, while manageable, can pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. Navigating unfamiliar roads, managing traffic, and remembering directions can be overwhelming. The Alzheimer's Score must factor in the potential for increased stress and the need for a reliable driver or caregiver.

Smaller, more local practices, like those in Pottsville and Schuylkill Haven, offer the advantage of shorter drive times. However, the availability of specialized geriatric care and neurological services might be limited, potentially requiring longer journeys. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, also impacts drive times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Port Carbon are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. However, the frequency of routes serving Port Carbon and the surrounding areas is infrequent, and schedules are often limited, especially on weekends and evenings.

Route 30, which serves Pottsville, is the closest option to Port Carbon, offering limited service to the area. While some buses may offer ADA-accessible features, such as ramps and designated seating, the overall accessibility of public transit for individuals with Alzheimer's is questionable. The complexity of navigating bus schedules, transfers, and unfamiliar environments can be highly challenging. The Alzheimer's Score must reflect the unreliability of public transit as a viable healthcare transportation option.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability may be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The reliability of these services is crucial for healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) and other private providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, often with door-to-door service and assistance. However, these services require pre-booking, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak demand.

The Alzheimer's Score must consider the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The need for advance planning and the potential for delays can significantly impact the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Healthcare Access and the Alzheimer's Score**

The Alzheimer's Score for Port Carbon, based on these factors, is moderate. While the proximity of healthcare facilities in Pottsville offers some advantages, the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates a reliable driver or caregiver. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial lifeline, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered. The lack of specialized geriatric care and neurological services within Port Carbon itself may require longer journeys to more distant facilities.

**Recommendations for a Safe and Accessible Healthcare Experience**

For individuals with Alzheimer's considering a move to Port Carbon, several strategies can improve healthcare access.

* **Prioritize proximity:** Choose housing within close proximity to healthcare providers or easily accessible routes.
* **Establish a support network:** Build a network of family, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation and assistance.
* **Explore medical transportation options:** Research and pre-book medical transportation services for all appointments.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments well in advance and allow ample time for travel.
* **Consider assisted living or memory care facilities:** If independent living becomes challenging, explore facilities that provide comprehensive care and transportation services.
* **Assess driving capabilities:** Regularly evaluate the individual's ability to drive safely and consider alternative transportation options if necessary.
* **Utilize telehealth:** Explore the availability of telehealth appointments for routine check-ups and consultations.

**Conclusion**

Navigating healthcare in Port Carbon with Alzheimer's requires careful planning and a proactive approach. While the area offers some advantages, the limitations of transportation options necessitate a comprehensive strategy to ensure safe and accessible healthcare access. The Alzheimer's Score, reflecting the drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, underscores the importance of considering these factors when making decisions about healthcare and living arrangements. By understanding the challenges and embracing available resources, individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain their health and well-being while living in Port Carbon.