15135, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15135, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.39 percent of residents in 15135 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 3.78 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in McKeesport (ZIP Code 15135)

The air hangs heavy with the ghosts of industry in McKeesport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15135), a city grappling with environmental challenges. For those considering a move, particularly individuals with asthma, understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the intricate web of transportation options available, assessing their impact on healthcare access and quality of life. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture for those prioritizing healthcare in their relocation decision.

McKeesport, nestled in the Monongahela River Valley, presents unique transportation challenges. The city's topography, historical development, and limited public transit infrastructure necessitate careful consideration. The primary concern for asthma sufferers is the potential for increased exposure to environmental triggers during commutes to medical appointments. This analysis considers the practicalities of getting to and from healthcare facilities, focusing on the most frequently used options.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

The car remains a dominant mode of transportation in McKeesport. The primary arterial routes are crucial. The **Mon–Fayette Expressway (PA-43)** offers relatively quick access to destinations south, like Jefferson Hospital, and the Pittsburgh area. However, rush hour congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially during the morning and evening commutes.

Traveling north towards Pittsburgh necessitates navigating the **PA-885 (Lysle Boulevard)**, which feeds into the **PA-51 (McKeesport Road)**. These roads are often congested, particularly near intersections and commercial areas. The drive to UPMC Mercy Hospital in downtown Pittsburgh, a major healthcare provider, can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

The **PA-148 (Walnut Street)**, a key east-west thoroughfare, provides access to local healthcare facilities and connects to the **PA-30 (Lincoln Highway)**. Drive times to facilities in this direction, such as the AHN McKeesport Hospital, are generally shorter, typically 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific location within McKeesport.

During peak hours, the potential for increased exposure to vehicle emissions, a known asthma trigger, is heightened. Careful planning of appointment times and route selection becomes essential. Those with asthma should consider investing in air purifiers for their vehicles and monitoring air quality forecasts before embarking on a journey.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transit services in McKeesport. Bus routes are the primary mode of public transportation, and their availability directly impacts healthcare access. Several bus routes serve the area, including the **61C (McKeesport-Oakland)**, which offers connections to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) facilities in Oakland.

The **53 (Homestead-Duquesne)** provides service to the south and east. The **67 (Monroeville)** bus route offers service to the west. While these routes provide a lifeline for those without personal vehicles, their frequency and reliability are critical considerations.

The PAT website provides real-time tracking and schedule information. However, the bus system may be limited by its route coverage and frequency. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility challenges. It is essential to verify the accessibility of specific routes before relying on them for healthcare appointments.

The extended travel times associated with public transit can also increase exposure to environmental triggers. Consider the potential for longer wait times at bus stops, particularly during inclement weather. Individuals with asthma should carry necessary medications and be prepared for potential delays.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be readily available in McKeesport, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as Medicar and various private ambulance companies, specialize in transporting individuals with medical needs. These services are often covered by insurance, offering a reliable option for those who cannot drive or use public transit. However, it is essential to check with insurance providers to understand coverage limitations and pre-authorization requirements.

The availability and responsiveness of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Planning ahead and booking rides in advance is crucial, especially for time-sensitive appointments.

**Healthcare Access and the Asthma Score:**

The "Asthma Score" for McKeesport reflects the complex interplay of transportation options and healthcare access. The city's location in the Monongahela River Valley, coupled with its industrial history, presents environmental challenges. While the availability of healthcare facilities within McKeesport, such as AHN McKeesport Hospital, is a positive factor, the accessibility of specialized care in Pittsburgh is also crucial.

The drive times to Pittsburgh hospitals, coupled with the limitations of public transit, can create barriers to accessing timely and specialized care. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion during peak hours necessitate careful planning and route selection.

Ride-sharing services offer a viable alternative, but their cost can be a deterrent. Medical transportation services provide a reliable option for those with specific needs.

Individuals with asthma considering moving to McKeesport should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation options. Researching the specific healthcare providers they require, assessing the accessibility of their facilities, and familiarizing themselves with the available transportation alternatives are crucial steps.

**Conclusion: Moving with Asthma in McKeesport**

Relocating to a new area with asthma requires careful consideration of environmental factors and healthcare accessibility. McKeesport presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. While the city offers local healthcare facilities, access to specialized care in Pittsburgh requires navigating a complex transportation landscape.

The "Asthma Score" for McKeesport highlights the importance of prioritizing transportation options. Individuals with asthma should explore all available modes, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation. Planning ahead, monitoring air quality forecasts, and carrying necessary medications are essential strategies for managing asthma symptoms. By carefully assessing their healthcare needs and transportation options, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about moving to McKeesport and ensure their well-being.