The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 15692, Westmoreland City, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
63.73 percent of residents in 15692 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahn Emerus Westmoreland, Llc with a distance of 4.32 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 15692, Westmoreland City, Pennsylvania
Arthritis Score | 98 |
---|---|
People Score | 84 |
Provider Score | 95 |
Hospital Score | 65 |
Travel Score | 55 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 15692 | Westmoreland City | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 7.77 | 7.77 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 27.46 | 27.46 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 52.07 | 52.07 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 12.69 | 12.69 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 15692, Westmoreland City, Pennsylvania
## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Westmoreland City (ZIP Code 15692)
Considering a move to Westmoreland City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15692), and managing arthritis? This "Arthritis Score" assesses the ease of accessing healthcare, particularly rheumatology and related services, factoring in transportation options. This analysis is crucial because arthritis can significantly impact mobility, making reliable and accessible transportation a paramount concern. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this community.
Westmoreland City, nestled in the heart of Westmoreland County, presents a unique blend of suburban and rural characteristics. Its location, while offering a degree of tranquility, also influences healthcare access. The availability and efficiency of transportation options directly impact the quality of life for those managing arthritis, a condition that often necessitates frequent medical appointments and specialized care. This score aims to provide a realistic expectation of the transportation challenges and opportunities.
**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**
For residents with arthritis, minimizing drive times is essential. Long drives can exacerbate pain and fatigue, making appointments more challenging. From Westmoreland City, accessing healthcare facilities typically involves navigating a network of highways and local roads.
The primary route to larger medical centers often involves using **Interstate 70 (I-70)**. Driving east on I-70 provides access to facilities in Greensburg, the county seat, which is a significant healthcare hub. The drive to UPMC East, a major hospital, is usually around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Alternatively, heading west on I-70 leads to facilities in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. However, this direction presents longer drive times, potentially exceeding an hour, especially during peak traffic hours. This can be particularly taxing for individuals with arthritis.
Local roads, such as **Pennsylvania Route 993** and **Pennsylvania Route 130**, provide alternative routes, but these often involve slower speeds and more stop-and-go traffic. These roads are best for shorter trips, such as to local pharmacies or primary care physicians within the immediate vicinity of Westmoreland City.
**Public Transit: A Limited Network**
Public transportation options in Westmoreland City are limited, which can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals with arthritis. The Westmoreland Transit Authority (WTA) provides bus services throughout the county. However, the frequency and coverage in Westmoreland City are less extensive compared to more urban areas.
The WTA operates several routes, but direct routes to major healthcare facilities from Westmoreland City are often unavailable. This necessitates transfers, which can be difficult for individuals with mobility limitations. The WTA does, however, offer ADA-accessible buses on all routes. This feature is crucial for individuals with arthritis who may require assistance with boarding and disembarking.
Checking the WTA website for specific route numbers and schedules is critical. Planning trips in advance is highly recommended, as waiting times between buses can be substantial. The limited public transit options in Westmoreland City necessitate careful consideration for those who cannot drive or prefer not to.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive. Availability in Westmoreland City, however, can be inconsistent. Ride-sharing services might be more readily available during peak hours or on weekends, but reliance on these services requires careful planning and potentially longer wait times.
Medical transportation services are another crucial component of healthcare access. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs to and from appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the Westmoreland County area.
Companies like **Care Ride** and **Medical Transportation of America** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking, and insurance coverage varies. Individuals with arthritis should investigate their insurance coverage and the availability of these services in Westmoreland City before relocating.
**The Arthritis Score: A Holistic Assessment**
The "Arthritis Score" for Westmoreland City, considering the transportation landscape, is moderate. While the area offers proximity to healthcare facilities via I-70, the reliance on personal vehicles is high. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing availability can be unpredictable. Medical transport services provide a vital safety net, but require planning and coordination.
For individuals with arthritis, this means that while healthcare is accessible, careful planning and reliance on multiple transportation options are often necessary. The ability to drive is a significant advantage. However, for those unable to drive, a combination of medical transport, ride-sharing, and potentially assistance from family or friends is crucial.
**Moving to Westmoreland City: A Transportation Checklist**
Before moving to Westmoreland City, individuals with arthritis should create a transportation checklist. This checklist should include:
* **Assess Driving Ability:** Evaluate the ability to drive safely and comfortably.
* **Explore Public Transit:** Investigate WTA routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility.
* **Research Ride-Sharing Availability:** Determine the reliability of Uber and Lyft in the area.
* **Investigate Medical Transport:** Identify and contact medical transport providers.
* **Plan Appointment Logistics:** Factor in travel time, parking, and potential delays.
* **Build a Support Network:** Identify potential assistance from family, friends, or community organizations.
By carefully considering these factors, individuals with arthritis can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and quality of life in Westmoreland City. This "Arthritis Score" provides a starting point for understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities, empowering individuals to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively. The key is proactive planning and a realistic assessment of available transportation options.
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