18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.02 percent of residents in 18614 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 27.73 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Healthcare Access in Dushore, PA (ZIP Code 18614)

Considering a move to the tranquil embrace of Dushore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18614)? For individuals, and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, meticulous planning regarding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up assesses the available transportation options and healthcare facilities within and around Dushore, providing an "Alzheimer's Score" to gauge the ease of access to necessary medical care. The score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services, all crucial elements in ensuring timely and reliable healthcare access.

Dushore, nestled in the heart of Sullivan County, offers a slower pace of life, a stark contrast to the bustling urban environments often associated with advanced medical care. The beauty of the Endless Mountains is undeniable, but the rural setting presents unique challenges concerning healthcare access, especially for those requiring frequent medical appointments or facing mobility limitations. This analysis delves into the realities of transportation in and around Dushore, providing a comprehensive overview for families considering a move, or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access strategies.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation in Dushore and the surrounding areas is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The road network, while scenic, is characterized by winding roads and relatively long distances to major healthcare facilities. The main arteries connecting Dushore to the outside world are Pennsylvania Route 220 and Pennsylvania Route 87. Route 220, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides access to Towanda, approximately a 30-minute drive south, where Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital offers a range of medical services.

Heading north on Route 220 leads to the slightly larger town of Sayre, also about a 30-minute drive, home to the Robert Packer Hospital, another significant healthcare provider. Both hospitals offer comprehensive services, including neurology departments, crucial for Alzheimer's care. However, these drive times can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, making reliable transportation planning essential.

Local roads, such as Route 487, offer access to smaller towns and healthcare providers, but these routes may be less well-maintained and can add to travel time. Driving conditions require careful consideration for individuals with cognitive impairments or physical limitations. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges associated with driving in a rural environment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Sullivan County are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system that directly serves Dushore or offers regular routes to healthcare facilities in Towanda or Sayre. This absence of public transit significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score, as it reduces options for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to.

The lack of public transit highlights the need for alternative transportation solutions. The absence of a readily available public transit system necessitates reliance on other modes of transportation. This includes ride-sharing services, medical transport, or the support of family and friends. The Alzheimer's Score will consider this limited availability of public transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not as consistent as in more urban areas. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can pose a significant challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may require scheduled transportation for appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, providing transportation specifically for medical appointments and other healthcare needs. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including MedExpress and First Transit. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, wheelchair accessibility, and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services can be costly, and booking in advance is often required.

The Alzheimer's Score will weigh the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services and the cost-effectiveness and accessibility of medical transport options. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for individuals requiring consistent and reliable transportation to healthcare appointments.

**Healthcare Facilities and Specialized Care:**

Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital and Robert Packer Hospital are the primary healthcare providers accessible from Dushore. Both offer a range of medical specialties, including neurology, which is essential for Alzheimer's care. These hospitals provide diagnostic services, treatment options, and support services for patients and their families.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are also available in the surrounding towns, offering primary care and specialized services. The proximity and accessibility of these facilities are crucial for managing the day-to-day healthcare needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

The Alzheimer's Score will consider the availability of specialized care, including neurology departments, memory care clinics, and support groups for patients and caregivers. The accessibility of these resources is crucial for providing comprehensive care and support to individuals living with Alzheimer's.

**ADA Accessibility:**

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration for healthcare access. Both Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital and Robert Packer Hospital are generally ADA-compliant, offering accessible entrances, parking, and examination rooms. However, it is essential to confirm specific accessibility features, such as wheelchair accessibility in transportation services and specialized equipment in clinics.

The Alzheimer's Score will factor in the ADA compliance of healthcare facilities and transportation services, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the care they need.

**Alzheimer's Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the Alzheimer's Score for healthcare access in Dushore, PA (ZIP Code 18614) is moderate. The score is affected by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The 30-minute drive to major hospitals in Towanda and Sayre is manageable, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for inclement weather impacts reliability.
* **Public Transit:** The complete lack of public transportation significantly reduces access for those unable to drive.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services are available but may be unreliable.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services offer a reliable option, but they can be costly.
* **Healthcare Facilities:** The availability of neurology departments and support services in Towanda and Sayre is positive.
* **ADA Compliance:** Healthcare facilities are generally ADA-compliant.

**Recommendations for Individuals and Families:**

* **Assess Driving Capabilities:** Evaluate the individual's ability to drive safely and consider alternative transportation options if necessary.
* **Establish a Transportation Plan:** Develop a comprehensive transportation plan that includes family support, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.
* **Explore Medical Transport Options:** Research and compare medical transport providers, considering cost, availability, and accessibility features.
* **Plan for Inclement Weather:** Develop contingency plans for transportation during winter months or other adverse weather conditions.
* **Contact Healthcare Providers:** Confirm the availability of specialized care, support services, and ADA-compliant facilities.
* **Connect with Local Resources:** Explore local support groups and organizations that provide assistance to individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Dushore offers a peaceful and scenic environment, but healthcare access requires careful planning for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. By understanding the transportation landscape, evaluating available resources, and developing a comprehensive healthcare access plan, families can ensure that they can receive the care and support they need. The Alzheimer's Score serves as a guide, highlighting the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in this beautiful, yet rural, corner of Pennsylvania. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for making an informed decision about moving to Dushore.