18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.14 percent of residents in 18517 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Regional Hospital Of Scranton with a distance of 3.48 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Taylor, PA (ZIP Code 18517)

Considering a move to Taylor, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18517), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for someone with Alzheimer's? This analysis provides a detailed "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, evaluating the ease of transportation to medical facilities. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing Alzheimer's. This information will help you understand the realities of healthcare access and make an informed decision.

The primary concern is ensuring reliable and accessible transportation. For individuals with Alzheimer's, predictable and stress-free journeys are paramount. The ability to reach healthcare appointments, therapy sessions, and other crucial medical services is a critical factor in maintaining quality of life and managing the disease effectively.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Taylor's location in Lackawanna County offers a mix of accessibility and potential challenges. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are Interstate 81 (I-81), the major north-south artery; the smaller but important U.S. Route 6 (US-6), running east-west; and local roads such as South Main Street, Keyser Avenue, and O'Neill Highway.

Driving times to healthcare facilities can vary significantly depending on traffic, time of day, and weather conditions. The closest major hospital, Geisinger Community Medical Center, is in Scranton, approximately a 10-15 minute drive via Keyser Avenue and US-6. This relatively short distance is a significant advantage, offering quick access to emergency services and specialized care.

Other healthcare providers, including specialists and outpatient clinics, are also concentrated in Scranton. Driving to these facilities typically involves navigating local roads and US-6, with travel times ranging from 10 to 30 minutes. Morning and evening rush hours can significantly impact these drive times, adding stress and potentially causing delays for appointments.

For those needing specialized care or access to facilities outside of Scranton, such as those in Wilkes-Barre or the surrounding areas, travel times increase considerably, often exceeding an hour. This extended travel can be particularly challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's, potentially leading to fatigue, confusion, and increased anxiety.

**Public Transportation:**

The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides public transportation services in the area. While the LCTA offers bus routes, their coverage in Taylor and the surrounding areas might be limited. This is a key consideration for those unable to drive or who prefer not to.

Several routes, including the 20 and 21, serve areas near Taylor, but their frequency and reach may not be ideal for healthcare access. These routes primarily operate along major roads, potentially requiring transfers to reach specific medical facilities.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor. The LCTA is mandated to provide accessible services, ensuring that buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the reliability and efficiency of these services should be verified, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Public transportation can be a viable option for some, but its limitations, including potential wait times, route complexity, and the need for transfers, should be carefully considered. The stress of navigating a complex public transit system can be overwhelming for someone with Alzheimer's.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas, can be unpredictable.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. The cost of each ride needs to be factored into the budget. For individuals with limited financial resources, this can become a significant burden.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available. These services offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. Several medical transport companies operate in the Scranton area, including Carelift and American Medical Response.

These services provide a more reliable and supportive transportation option for individuals with Alzheimer's. However, they are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transportation.

**Healthcare Access Considerations for Alzheimer's:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Taylor (18517) reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Scranton and the availability of major healthcare facilities are positive factors. However, the reliance on driving, the limitations of public transportation, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services pose challenges.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the ideal scenario involves easy access to healthcare facilities, reliable and accessible transportation, and minimal stress during travel. Taylor offers some of these advantages, but potential residents must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and resources.

**Recommendations:**

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Determine the frequency of medical appointments, the need for specialized care, and the individual's ability to drive.
* **Explore Public Transportation Options:** Research LCTA routes, ADA accessibility, and the feasibility of using public transit for healthcare appointments.
* **Investigate Ride-Sharing Availability:** Check the availability of Uber and Lyft in the area and assess the associated costs.
* **Research Medical Transport Services:** Identify medical transport providers and evaluate their services, including cost, accessibility, and trained personnel.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Prioritize housing options that offer easy access to hospitals, clinics, and other medical providers.
* **Plan for Contingencies:** Develop backup transportation plans in case of inclement weather, driver unavailability, or other unforeseen circumstances.
* **Seek Support:** Explore local resources and support groups for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Moving to Taylor, PA, can be a positive experience. By carefully considering these transportation and healthcare access factors, you can make an informed decision that supports the well-being of the individual with Alzheimer's and ensures access to the care they need. This detailed assessment will help you navigate the complexities of healthcare access and provide a framework for creating a supportive and fulfilling environment.