15049, Harwick, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15049, Harwick, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.73 percent of residents in 15049 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Allegheny Valley Hospital with a distance of 5.70 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Harwick, PA (ZIP Code 15049)**

The quaint borough of Harwick, nestled in the Allegheny Valley of Pennsylvania, offers a serene residential landscape. However, for individuals managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a critical consideration, impacting quality of life. This analysis, the "Asthma Score," evaluates the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 15049, focusing on healthcare access. It considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation modalities, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for residents and prospective movers. The score is designed to help assess the ease of reaching essential medical services while minimizing exposure to potential asthma triggers during the commute.

The primary concern is the practical reality of reaching healthcare facilities. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are often located outside of Harwick. Driving is the most common mode of transportation. Residents typically utilize the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)**, the major east-west artery, to reach Pittsburgh and its surrounding suburbs. The **Allegheny Valley Expressway (PA-28)**, a vital north-south corridor, provides access to Pittsburgh and the northern suburbs, including the city of New Kensington.

The drive to Allegheny Valley Hospital in Natrona Heights, a crucial healthcare provider, is generally a 10-15 minute journey via PA-28. This route involves navigating local roads and potentially encountering traffic, particularly during peak hours. The journey to UPMC St. Margaret Hospital in Pittsburgh, a more specialized facility, takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic on PA-28 and the city streets. UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, a vital resource for pediatric asthma care, is about a 45-60 minute drive, depending on the traffic.

The time of day significantly influences these drive times. Rush hour, typically from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, can extend travel times considerably. Weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during winter, can further complicate commutes. Real-time traffic data, available through apps like Google Maps and Waze, is essential for planning efficient routes and avoiding delays. This data is crucial for individuals with asthma, as minimizing time spent in transit reduces exposure to potential triggers like vehicle exhaust.

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, although its availability in Harwick is limited. The **Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT)** provides bus service to the area. The primary route serving Harwick is the **P1**, which travels along PA-28 and connects to downtown Pittsburgh. The P1 route does not directly service the area. The closest stop is in Cheswick, a 10-15 minute walk from Harwick. The P1 does not provide direct access to hospitals.

Accessibility features on PAT buses are important for individuals with mobility issues. All PAT buses are equipped with ramps and designated seating for passengers with disabilities, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. However, the frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited. Waiting at bus stops can expose individuals to environmental triggers, such as pollen or air pollution.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Harwick area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing can also vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like MedRide and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services offer door-to-door transport, which can be beneficial for those with mobility issues or limited access to other transportation options. The cost of medical transportation services can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required.

The "Asthma Score" takes into account the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential for exposure to asthma triggers during commutes. The score assesses the overall accessibility of healthcare services for individuals with asthma in Harwick. The score also considers the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists and allergists.

For individuals considering moving to Harwick, understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access is crucial. The availability of reliable transportation options, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the potential for exposure to environmental triggers should be carefully evaluated. While Harwick offers a desirable residential environment, the transportation challenges may present obstacles for individuals with asthma.

The "Asthma Score" is a dynamic assessment. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, public transit schedules, and the availability of healthcare services. Residents and prospective movers should utilize available resources, such as online maps, public transit websites, and healthcare directories, to stay informed about transportation options and healthcare access.

The goal of the "Asthma Score" is to empower individuals with asthma to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. By providing a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape in Harwick, this analysis aims to facilitate access to essential medical services and improve the quality of life for residents. The score also highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand healthcare access in the community. The interplay between transportation and healthcare access is a critical consideration for individuals with asthma.