15046, Crescent, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15046, Crescent, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.60 percent of residents in 15046 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Heritage Valley Sewickley with a distance of 2.87 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Crescent, PA (ZIP Code 15046)

Crescent, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Ohio River, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the bustling city of Pittsburgh. For individuals managing asthma, however, the ease of accessing healthcare becomes a critical factor in their quality of life. This "Asthma Score" analysis assesses the accessibility of medical care within and from ZIP Code 15046, considering various transportation options and their impact on timely and effective healthcare access. This is vital information for anyone considering moving to Crescent, or currently residing there, and managing asthma.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the ability to reach medical facilities promptly. In Crescent, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is personal vehicles. The ease of driving, therefore, is a significant determinant of the Asthma Score. From Crescent, residents can utilize several key roadways. The primary artery is the **Moon-Crescent Road**, providing direct access to local amenities and connecting to **University Boulevard**. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying travel to healthcare providers.

For those seeking care further afield, the **PA-60 (also known as the Airport Expressway)** and the **I-376 (Parkway West)** are essential. These highways provide access to Pittsburgh's major hospitals and specialist clinics. The drive time to UPMC Presbyterian, a major healthcare hub, can range from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, reaching Allegheny General Hospital requires a drive of approximately 30 to 50 minutes. The variability in these drive times underscores the importance of factoring in potential delays when planning healthcare appointments.

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The **Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT)** provides bus service to and from Crescent. The primary route serving the area is the **28X Airport Flyer**, which connects Crescent to downtown Pittsburgh and the airport. While the 28X offers a direct route, it may not be ideal for all healthcare appointments. This is because the bus stops are limited, and the route may not directly serve all medical facilities.

Furthermore, the 28X is designed to cater to the needs of airport travelers, not necessarily the specific needs of those seeking healthcare. Although PAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating, the overall travel time on public transit can be significantly longer than driving, adding to the stress of managing asthma. The frequency of the 28X, especially during off-peak hours, can also be a limiting factor.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, present another transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of ride-sharing vehicles in Crescent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be variable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent appointments. This is an important consideration for individuals managing asthma, who may require regular check-ups and treatments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like **MedExpress** and **LifeFleet** provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service, ensuring patients arrive at their appointments safely and comfortably. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have associated costs, which can impact their accessibility.

The Asthma Score also considers the location of local healthcare providers within Crescent. The presence of primary care physicians, urgent care clinics, and pharmacies within the ZIP code can significantly improve healthcare access. The availability of these resources reduces the need for lengthy travel times and allows for quicker access to necessary medical care. A local pharmacy can be particularly important for obtaining asthma medications and supplies promptly.

Another crucial factor is the availability of emergency medical services (EMS). The response time of ambulances to asthma-related emergencies can be life-saving. The proximity of emergency medical services to residential areas is, therefore, a critical component of the Asthma Score. This includes the location of local fire departments and ambulance services, and their ability to respond quickly to calls for assistance.

The overall Asthma Score for ZIP Code 15046 is moderate. While the area benefits from proximity to Pittsburgh's major hospitals and specialist clinics, reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can pose challenges. Public transportation options exist, but they may not be ideal for all healthcare needs. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer alternative solutions, but their availability and cost can be limiting factors.

The presence of local healthcare providers and pharmacies within Crescent improves access. The proximity of emergency medical services further enhances the overall score. However, the variability in drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services need to be carefully considered.

For individuals with asthma, the Asthma Score serves as a valuable tool. It helps assess the ease of accessing healthcare and informs decisions about moving to Crescent. It encourages individuals to plan their healthcare appointments, considering potential travel times and alternative transportation options. It also emphasizes the importance of having a reliable emergency plan in place.

In conclusion, while Crescent offers a desirable suburban environment, individuals with asthma should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare access options. Understanding the drive times, public transit routes, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is crucial for ensuring timely and effective healthcare access. By considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and choose the best transportation options for their specific circumstances. This proactive approach is essential for managing asthma effectively and maintaining a good quality of life.