18013, Bangor, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18013, Bangor, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.92 percent of residents in 18013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Hospital - Easton Campus with a distance of 12.37 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Bangor, PA (ZIP Code 18013)

Considering a move to Bangor, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18013) and concerned about healthcare access, especially for a loved one facing Alzheimer's disease? This assessment provides a detailed “Alzheimer’s Score,” evaluating the ease of transportation to vital medical facilities. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for navigating the healthcare landscape. This analysis prioritizes the specific needs of individuals with cognitive impairments, focusing on accessibility, convenience, and the potential for stress reduction during medical appointments.

Bangor, nestled in the Slate Belt region of Northampton County, presents a unique transportation environment. Its location, while offering a sense of community and natural beauty, can pose challenges when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The rural nature of the area influences transportation options, making careful consideration crucial for those seeking a supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The primary healthcare provider serving Bangor is St. Luke's Hospital – Anderson Campus, located approximately 10 miles south in Easton, PA. Driving to this facility is typically the most straightforward option. From Bangor, the most direct route involves taking **Pennsylvania Route 512 South** to **Pennsylvania Route 33 South**. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, averages around 20-25 minutes. However, traffic on Route 33 can be heavy during peak hours, especially during weekday commutes, potentially extending the travel time. This factor is significant for individuals with Alzheimer's, as prolonged travel can increase anxiety and confusion.

Another option involves taking **Pennsylvania Route 191 South** to **Interstate 78 East**, and then exiting onto **Pennsylvania Route 33 North** to reach St. Luke's – Anderson. This route is slightly longer, adding a few minutes to the drive time, but can sometimes offer a smoother ride, particularly if traffic on Route 512 is congested.

Beyond St. Luke's – Anderson, specialized care, such as neurology, geriatric medicine, and memory care services, may necessitate travel to larger hospitals in the Lehigh Valley, such as Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest in Allentown, approximately 30 miles southwest. This drive involves taking **Pennsylvania Route 512 South** to **Interstate 78 West**. The drive time to Allentown can range from 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer journey adds a significant layer of complexity, requiring careful planning and consideration for the individual's comfort and cognitive abilities.

Public transportation options in Bangor and the surrounding areas are limited. The LANTA (Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority) provides bus service, but routes within Bangor are infrequent and primarily serve the main thoroughfares. The most relevant routes would be those connecting Bangor to Easton, where connections to other LANTA routes are available. However, these routes often involve multiple transfers and extended travel times, making them less than ideal for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on LANTA buses is a critical factor. All LANTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features, but the overall experience can still be challenging. Navigating the bus system requires understanding schedules, routes, and potential delays. The cognitive demands of remembering stops and managing transfers can be overwhelming for someone with memory loss.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bangor area, offering a more convenient alternative to public transportation. However, the availability of drivers can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant consideration, particularly for frequent medical appointments. For individuals with Alzheimer's, the unfamiliarity of a new driver and the constant change of vehicles can contribute to confusion and disorientation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including door-to-door service, assistance with mobility, and trained drivers experienced in working with individuals with cognitive impairments. These services, while often more expensive than ride-sharing, offer a greater level of support and can significantly reduce the stress associated with medical appointments.

When considering a move to Bangor, the availability of these specialized transportation services should be a key factor. Researching the specific services offered in the area, including their pricing, availability, and the qualifications of their drivers, is crucial. It's also essential to assess the individual's ability to tolerate longer car rides and the potential for anxiety or confusion during travel.

The Alzheimer's Score for transportation in Bangor, PA (18013) is moderately challenging. While driving to St. Luke's – Anderson is relatively straightforward, the limitations of public transportation and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and longer drives to specialized care facilities create complexities. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline, but the cost and availability of these services must be carefully considered.

For a person with Alzheimer's, living in Bangor requires a robust support system. This includes family, friends, or professional caregivers who can assist with transportation, appointment scheduling, and medication management. The ability to plan ahead, anticipate potential challenges, and adapt to changing circumstances is essential.

The decision to move to Bangor should be based on a comprehensive assessment of the individual's needs, including their cognitive abilities, physical limitations, and the availability of support services. While Bangor offers a peaceful environment, the transportation landscape presents unique challenges that must be carefully considered to ensure access to quality healthcare and promote the individual's well-being.