18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.05 percent of residents in 18845 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Packer Hospital with a distance of 21.73 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18845

The charming village of Stevensville, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 18845 ZIP code, offers a tranquil escape, a haven for those seeking respite. However, the serenity of rural living presents a unique challenge: healthcare access, particularly for individuals navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score, a practical assessment of transportation options and potential barriers to accessing vital medical care, crucial for anyone considering moving to Stevensville or supporting loved ones residing there.

The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive overview of the landscape. The goal is to equip individuals and families with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, ensuring access to timely and appropriate healthcare. This is especially critical for individuals with Alzheimer's, where consistent medical attention and specialized care are paramount.

The primary healthcare provider for Stevensville residents is the Guthrie Clinic, with its main hospital located in Sayre, approximately 25 miles east. The most direct route involves traversing Pennsylvania Route 220 North, a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic, especially during peak hours. Expect a drive time of roughly 35-45 minutes under normal conditions. The journey then continues on US-220 North, a divided highway offering a smoother ride, leading directly to the Guthrie Clinic.

For those residing in the more remote areas of the 18845 ZIP code, accessing Route 220 may involve navigating smaller, winding roads like Township Road 409 or Township Road 407. These routes, while scenic, can add significant time to the commute, particularly during inclement weather. Winter conditions, with snow and ice, pose a considerable challenge, potentially increasing travel times and necessitating the use of four-wheel drive vehicles.

Public transportation options within the 18845 ZIP code are limited. The Endless Mountains Transportation Authority (EMTA) provides some services, but their routes and frequency are restricted. Information on specific routes serving Stevensville is difficult to find. Therefore, reliance on public transit for healthcare access is not advisable. Individuals with Alzheimer's often require assistance with navigation and scheduling, making public transportation a less viable option.

The EMTA buses, when available, may offer ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited routes and schedules may not align with the needs of individuals requiring frequent medical appointments. The lack of readily available information regarding routes and schedules further complicates the situation, making it difficult to plan and coordinate healthcare visits.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural locations. The wait times for a ride can be extended, and the cost can fluctuate depending on demand. While ride-sharing offers a potential solution, its reliability is a concern for individuals with Alzheimer's, who require predictable and dependable transportation. The unpredictability of ride-sharing services can add stress and anxiety, potentially hindering healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, catering to individuals with specific medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, including FirstCall Ambulance and Care Transportation Services. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services come with a cost, and prior arrangements are necessary.

The Alzheimer's Score for the 18845 ZIP code reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape. The primary concern is the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare. The drive times to the Guthrie Clinic, while manageable, can be extended by traffic, weather, and the condition of local roads. Public transportation is severely limited, and ride-sharing services may be unreliable. Medical transport services offer a viable alternative but require planning and come with associated costs.

The score considers the potential impact of these factors on individuals with Alzheimer's. The ability to maintain independence and access healthcare is critical for their well-being. The challenges associated with transportation can lead to delays in medical appointments, missed treatments, and increased stress for both the individual and their caregivers.

Caregivers must be prepared to navigate the transportation landscape, ensuring access to healthcare for their loved ones. This may involve coordinating transportation, managing schedules, and providing assistance with navigation. The availability of medical transport services can be a valuable resource, but it is essential to research and plan ahead.

The Alzheimer's Score for the 18845 ZIP code is a reflection of the need for careful consideration of transportation options. While the rural setting offers a peaceful environment, it also presents challenges to healthcare access. Individuals considering moving to Stevensville or supporting loved ones there must assess their transportation needs and develop a plan to ensure access to timely and appropriate medical care.

The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. This includes identifying available transportation options, researching medical transport services, and establishing a support network to assist with healthcare appointments. It also highlights the need for ongoing monitoring of the individual's needs and adjusting the transportation plan as necessary.

The score is not a definitive judgment but a starting point for a comprehensive assessment. It encourages a deeper understanding of the transportation landscape and the potential impact on healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. By acknowledging the challenges and proactively addressing them, residents of Stevensville can work together to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need.

The final score incorporates factors such as drive times, the availability and reliability of public transportation and ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options. It also considers the potential impact of these factors on the individual's well-being and the caregiver's ability to provide support. The score serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring a high quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's residing in the 18845 ZIP code.