18428, Hawley, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18428, Hawley, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.24 percent of residents in 18428 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 18.21 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hawley, PA (ZIP Code 18428)

Choosing a new home is a momentous decision, and for individuals and families facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, meticulous planning is essential. This analysis, an "Alzheimer's Score" for the Hawley, Pennsylvania area (ZIP Code 18428), focuses on the critical aspect of **healthcare access**, specifically **transportation** options, to ensure safe and timely medical appointments. Considering the potential cognitive and physical limitations associated with Alzheimer's, reliable **transportation** becomes paramount. This write-up will detail the available options, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering **moving to Hawley**.

Hawley, nestled in the Pocono Mountains, offers a tranquil environment. However, its relative remoteness necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** logistics. The primary concern is the ability to reach essential **healthcare** facilities, including physicians, specialists, and hospitals. The following assessment provides a detailed examination of the **transportation** landscape within and around ZIP Code 18428.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of **transportation** in this area is personal vehicle. Residents must navigate the local road network, which includes the primary thoroughfares of Interstate 84 (I-84) and U.S. Route 6 (US-6). These highways are crucial for accessing regional medical centers.

From Hawley, a drive to Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, a key **healthcare** provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The route involves taking US-6 East. This is a relatively straightforward drive, but the potential for seasonal weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during winter months, must be factored in. The road conditions can impact the safety of the drive.

For specialized **healthcare** services, residents may need to travel to larger hospitals in Scranton, approximately an hour's drive. This journey usually involves taking US-6 East to I-84 West, then connecting to I-380 South, and finally I-81 North. This longer route necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with memory impairments. Fatigue and the complexity of multiple highway changes are significant concerns.

The drive to Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, another major **healthcare** provider, also takes approximately an hour, involving a similar route. The time can vary based on traffic conditions, which should be considered when scheduling appointments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Hawley are limited, which is a major consideration for those with Alzheimer's. Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some service, but it is primarily concentrated in the Scranton area. There is no direct, regularly scheduled bus service from Hawley to major **healthcare** facilities.

The lack of robust public **transportation** poses a significant challenge for individuals who are unable to drive or who have limitations that make driving unsafe. The absence of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on other **transportation** methods.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hawley area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of these services should be carefully assessed when planning appointments. It is crucial to pre-book rides and allow ample time for potential delays.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation** and may include assistance with mobility. Several companies operating in the region specialize in medical **transportation**, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** providers.

These services are essential for individuals with Alzheimer's who cannot drive or require assistance. They provide a crucial link to **healthcare** facilities. However, costs can be a significant factor, and it is essential to investigate insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features in public **transportation**. While the LCTA buses in the Scranton area are ADA-compliant, the limited service to Hawley makes this less relevant. When utilizing ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services, it is essential to confirm that the vehicles are equipped with necessary accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts or ramps, to accommodate the individual's needs.

**Healthcare Facility Proximity and Accessibility:**

The proximity of **healthcare** facilities to Hawley is a critical factor. Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale is the closest major hospital, offering a range of services. However, for specialized care, residents may need to travel to Scranton.

The accessibility of **healthcare** facilities, including parking, ease of navigation within the building, and availability of support services, must be considered. Individuals with Alzheimer's may benefit from facilities with clear signage, staff trained in dementia care, and readily available assistance.

**Overall Alzheimer's Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, the **Alzheimer's Score** for **healthcare access** in Hawley (ZIP Code 18428) is moderately challenging. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limited public **transportation** options and reliance on personal vehicles or potentially inconsistent ride-sharing services pose significant hurdles for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The following recommendations are crucial for those considering **moving to Hawley**:

* **Prioritize proximity:** Select a residence as close as possible to essential **healthcare** providers, such as Wayne Memorial Hospital.
* **Assess driving ability:** Carefully evaluate the individual's ability to drive safely. If driving is no longer feasible, alternative **transportation** plans are essential.
* **Explore medical transport:** Research and establish relationships with reliable medical **transportation** providers.
* **Plan for appointments:** Schedule appointments with ample time, considering travel distances and potential delays.
* **Utilize support services:** Explore local support groups and resources for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.
* **Consider caregiver support:** Ensure a strong caregiver network to assist with **transportation** and appointment management.
* **Investigate insurance coverage:** Understand insurance coverage for medical **transportation** and other related expenses.

Ultimately, the success of **healthcare access** in Hawley for individuals with Alzheimer's depends on proactive planning, reliance on reliable **transportation** options, and a strong support system. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, careful consideration of these factors is vital for ensuring a safe and supportive environment.