18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.85 percent of residents in 18617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 10.84 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Glen Lyon (ZIP Code 18617)

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human need, takes on heightened significance for individuals grappling with Alzheimer's disease. In the heart of Pennsylvania, the small community of Glen Lyon (ZIP Code 18617) presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options, providing a nuanced understanding of the landscape for those considering a move to Glen Lyon or currently residing there. It considers the critical aspect of healthcare access, particularly for those with cognitive impairments.

Glen Lyon, a borough nestled in Newport Township, offers a tranquil setting. However, its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are **Pennsylvania Route 29** and **Pennsylvania Route 11**. These arteries are crucial for reaching medical facilities in surrounding towns.

The drive times to essential healthcare services are a primary concern. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a comprehensive hospital, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via **PA-29 South** and **Interstate 81 South**. This route, while relatively straightforward, requires navigating highway traffic, a potential challenge for individuals with cognitive impairments. The Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, another major healthcare provider, is also accessible via **PA-29 South** and then **South Main Street**, taking approximately 25-35 minutes.

For those seeking specialized care, the drive times can increase. The Memory Care Unit at Allied Services Skilled Nursing & Rehab Center in Wilkes-Barre is about a 30-40 minute drive, demanding careful route planning and consideration of traffic conditions. These extended travel times emphasize the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for fatigue and disorientation.

Public transportation options in Glen Lyon are limited. Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus services, but routes serving Glen Lyon are infrequent. Route 17, for instance, might offer a connection to Wilkes-Barre, but the schedule is not designed for frequent medical appointments. The LCTA buses do provide ADA accessibility, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited frequency and potential for long wait times pose significant obstacles for individuals with Alzheimer's. Navigating public transit requires a high degree of cognitive function, making it a less viable option for many.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a more flexible transportation alternative. However, the availability of drivers in Glen Lyon can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, potentially becoming a financial burden for frequent medical appointments. The dependence on smartphone technology and the unfamiliarity of ride-sharing protocols can be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or medical needs, are another option. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance from the home to the vehicle and from the vehicle to the healthcare facility. The availability and cost of these services should be carefully investigated.

The decision to move to Glen Lyon, or any location, requires a thorough assessment of the individual's needs and capabilities. For individuals with Alzheimer's, the availability and accessibility of healthcare are paramount. The relative isolation of Glen Lyon and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable public transportation necessitate a detailed evaluation of transportation options.

When considering a move to Glen Lyon, potential residents must meticulously examine the availability of family support, caregivers, and community resources. The presence of a strong support network can significantly mitigate the challenges associated with healthcare access. The ability to coordinate appointments, arrange transportation, and provide companionship is essential for ensuring the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's.

The absence of readily available healthcare options within Glen Lyon highlights the need for proactive planning. Establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, exploring transportation assistance programs, and identifying accessible support services are crucial steps. The choice of where to live is a personal one, and the decision to move to Glen Lyon should be made only after a comprehensive evaluation of the available resources and a realistic assessment of the individual's needs.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Glen Lyon emphasizes the importance of careful planning and proactive measures. The relative isolation of the community, the limited public transportation options, and the reliance on personal vehicles require a strategic approach to healthcare access. The individual's safety and well-being must be the primary considerations.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing all contribute to the complexity of healthcare access in Glen Lyon. The absence of readily available healthcare options within the community highlights the need for a proactive approach to healthcare planning. The decision to move to Glen Lyon, or any location, should be made only after a comprehensive evaluation of the available resources and a realistic assessment of the individual's needs.

Ultimately, the "Alzheimer's Score" is not a numerical value but a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access in Glen Lyon. It underscores the importance of thorough research, careful planning, and the unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being of individuals living with Alzheimer's disease. The success of navigating healthcare in Glen Lyon hinges on a combination of accessible transportation, strong community support, and a proactive approach to managing the complexities of the disease.