15110, Duquesne, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15110, Duquesne, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.83 percent of residents in 15110 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 1.29 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Duquesne, PA (ZIP Code 15110)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer screening and treatment, becomes a complex equation when factoring in transportation. This write-up delves into the landscape of healthcare access for residents of Duquesne, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15110), analyzing the various transportation options available and their impact on a hypothetical "Breast Cancer Score." This score, though subjective, attempts to capture the ease and efficiency with which residents can access vital breast cancer services, including mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical consultations, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. For someone considering moving to Duquesne, this analysis provides a crucial lens for evaluating the practicality of accessing care.

Duquesne, a borough nestled along the Monongahela River, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. Its location, while offering scenic views, also necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. The Breast Cancer Score will be influenced by the availability, affordability, and reliability of these options.

**Driving the Distance: A Highway to Hope?**

The most direct route to many healthcare facilities from Duquesne involves driving. The primary arteries are the **PA-837** and **PA-837** which are the main roads. Traveling north along **PA-837** will lead you to the **Parkway East (I-376)**, providing access to UPMC hospitals in the Oakland and Shadyside neighborhoods of Pittsburgh. A drive to UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, a leading center for breast cancer care, typically takes between 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The **Parkway East (I-376)** is often congested during peak hours, especially the outbound lanes, potentially adding significant time to the commute.

Heading south on **PA-837** leads to the **PA Turnpike (I-76)**, offering another route to various healthcare providers. However, this option involves tolls, increasing the cost of transportation. This route also provides access to facilities in the South Hills and surrounding areas, though drive times can vary significantly.

**Public Transit: A Network of Possibilities**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transit services in Duquesne. Several bus routes serve the area, offering a potentially more affordable alternative to driving, particularly for those without a vehicle. Route 51, a key route, connects Duquesne to downtown Pittsburgh, providing access to numerous hospitals and medical centers. The journey time, however, can be considerably longer than driving, often exceeding an hour, depending on traffic and transfers.

The PAT strives to provide accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, and designated seating is available. However, navigating the public transit system with mobility limitations or medical appointments can still present challenges. The Breast Cancer Score considers the accessibility of the bus stops, the frequency of service, and the overall comfort of the journey. Waiting times, especially during inclement weather, can be a significant factor.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another layer of transportation options. These services can be particularly useful for those unable to drive or who prefer not to drive, especially for appointments where medication may be involved. However, the availability of ride-sharing in Duquesne can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances, can be a significant financial burden.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, also exist. These services often cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring assistance with mobility or those who are unable to drive due to medical conditions. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and various local providers operate in the Pittsburgh area. These services can offer a more specialized and supportive form of transportation. However, they often require pre-booking and can be subject to availability and insurance coverage.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Duquesne residents must take into account all these factors. A high score would indicate easy and reliable access to a wide range of breast cancer services. This would involve short drive times, frequent and accessible public transit options, and readily available and affordable ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Conversely, a low score would reflect significant challenges. This would include long drive times, infrequent public transit, limited ride-sharing availability, and high costs associated with transportation. For someone considering moving to Duquesne, the score would be a crucial piece of information.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Drive Time:** The time it takes to reach major hospitals and cancer centers, considering traffic patterns.
* **Public Transit Frequency and Reliability:** The frequency of bus routes, their punctuality, and the accessibility features available.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** The availability of Uber and Lyft services, along with their associated costs.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and accessibility of specialized medical transportation services.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The overall financial burden of accessing healthcare, including gas, tolls, public transit fares, and ride-sharing fees.
* **Accessibility:** The ease with which individuals with disabilities can access all transportation options.

**The Impact on the Community:**

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a numerical value; it reflects the overall health and well-being of the community. Limited transportation options can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and poorer health outcomes for breast cancer patients. Improving transportation infrastructure and access to services is crucial for improving the Breast Cancer Score and ensuring that all residents have equal opportunities for accessing life-saving care.

**Conclusion:**

Evaluating the transportation landscape is essential for understanding healthcare access in Duquesne. The Breast Cancer Score provides a framework for assessing the ease and efficiency with which residents can access breast cancer services. While Duquesne offers a variety of transportation options, the challenges of drive times, public transit limitations, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation must be carefully considered. For those contemplating a move to Duquesne, a thorough understanding of these factors is vital in making an informed decision and ensuring access to the crucial care needed. The future of healthcare access in Duquesne depends on continued efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and services, ultimately leading to a higher Breast Cancer Score and improved health outcomes for the entire community.