15148, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15148, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.20 percent of residents in 15148 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Forbes Hospital with a distance of 3.57 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wilmerding, PA (ZIP Code 15148)

Wilmerding, Pennsylvania, a borough nestled in the heart of Allegheny County, presents a unique landscape for residents, particularly those managing asthma. The very air, once thick with the industry of the Westinghouse Air Brake Company, can still carry reminders of its past. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" for healthcare access, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. For individuals considering moving to Wilmerding, or already residing there, understanding the ease and efficiency of reaching medical care is paramount. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview of the transportation infrastructure relevant to asthma management.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a primary consideration. While Wilmerding itself doesn't house a major hospital, several excellent options are within a reasonable distance. UPMC McKeesport Hospital, a significant regional medical center, is a critical resource. The drive to UPMC McKeesport, primarily via the **Lincoln Highway (US-30)**, typically takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This route is generally well-maintained, but rush hour congestion can significantly impact travel times. The **Westinghouse Bridge**, a vital artery connecting Wilmerding to the eastern suburbs, is another important consideration.

Another crucial destination is AHN Forbes Hospital in Monroeville. This journey involves navigating the **Lincoln Highway (US-30)** east and often includes a portion of the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-376)**. The drive to AHN Forbes Hospital can range from 15-25 minutes, again, dependent on traffic conditions. This route, while generally faster than the route to UPMC McKeesport, requires navigating more complex highway interchanges.

Public transportation offers an alternative for those who prefer not to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides bus service to Wilmerding. The **61A, 61B, and 67** bus routes offer direct or connecting service to various healthcare facilities. The **61A** route, in particular, provides access to downtown Pittsburgh, connecting to numerous hospitals and specialist clinics.

The PAT strives to ensure accessibility for all riders. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating areas for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of bus service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Furthermore, the travel time on public transit is often significantly longer than driving, a critical consideration for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Wilmerding. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, particularly for those who may need a ride to a doctor's appointment or pharmacy. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand, time of day, and distance traveled. However, the availability of these services provides a valuable option for individuals seeking on-demand transportation.

Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services, often offered by private companies, provide non-emergency medical transportation for appointments, hospital discharges, and other healthcare-related needs. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist with patient care. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, they provide a vital lifeline for individuals who require specialized assistance.

For individuals with asthma, the reliability and speed of transportation are crucial. Delays can exacerbate symptoms and increase anxiety. Therefore, the Asthma Score for Wilmerding must consider the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The **Lincoln Highway (US-30)**, while a primary route to healthcare facilities, is prone to traffic backups. The **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-376)**, while generally efficient, can also experience delays due to accidents or construction.

The availability of public transit provides a valuable alternative, but the longer travel times and potential for delays should be factored in. The frequency of bus service, especially during off-peak hours, can be a limiting factor. The accessibility features of the PAT buses are a significant advantage for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services offer a convenient and readily available option, but the cost can be a barrier for some individuals. The reliability of ride-sharing services can also be affected by driver availability and traffic conditions. Specialized medical transportation services provide a crucial safety net for individuals with specific needs, but the cost and availability of these services should be carefully considered.

When assessing the Asthma Score, the proximity of pharmacies is another critical element. Several pharmacies, including chain pharmacies and independent pharmacies, are located within a short drive of Wilmerding. These pharmacies offer prescription refills, over-the-counter medications, and other essential supplies for managing asthma. The ease of access to pharmacies is a significant advantage for residents of Wilmerding.

The overall Asthma Score for Wilmerding reflects a mixed bag of factors. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation services contribute to a moderate level of healthcare access. However, the potential for traffic congestion, the longer travel times on public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and specialized transportation services pose challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Wilmerding, a careful assessment of their individual transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public transit should familiarize themselves with the PAT bus routes and schedules. Those who prefer to drive should factor in potential traffic delays. Individuals who require specialized medical transportation should investigate the available services and their associated costs.

The Asthma Score for Wilmerding is a dynamic assessment, influenced by individual circumstances and the ever-changing landscape of transportation options. By understanding the available resources and proactively planning for healthcare access, residents of Wilmerding can effectively manage their asthma and maintain a high quality of life. The key is to prioritize healthcare access, and to understand the transportation options available.