15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.42 percent of residents in 15137 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 2.58 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15137

Moving to a new area, especially when considering healthcare access, is a significant decision. This write-up focuses on the breast cancer healthcare landscape for residents of ZIP code 15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania, evaluating the accessibility of screening, diagnosis, and treatment options. We’ll delve into the nuances of transportation, crucial for navigating the healthcare system, and how these factors impact your Breast Cancer Score.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a formal medical metric, but rather a composite assessment reflecting the ease with which residents can access breast cancer-related healthcare services. It considers factors like proximity to facilities, transportation options, and the availability of specialized care. A higher score suggests greater ease of access, while a lower score indicates potential challenges.

**Proximity and Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

North Versailles, while offering a suburban feel, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary arteries influencing healthcare access are the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)**, **US Route 30**, and **Lincoln Highway**. These roads connect residents to hospitals and specialized centers.

Driving times are paramount. UPMC McKeesport, a local hospital, is a crucial starting point. Driving there from central 15137 typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive breast cancer services, including screening mammograms and initial treatment options.

Further afield, the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, a nationally recognized cancer center, is accessible. The drive, primarily via the **Parkway East (I-376)**, can take 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic, especially during peak hours. This center offers advanced treatment options, including clinical trials and specialized surgical procedures.

Another significant option is Allegheny Health Network’s (AHN) facilities, such as West Penn Hospital, which is about a 30-45 minute drive via **US Route 30** and the **Parkway East**. AHN offers a range of breast cancer services.

These drive times, while generally manageable, highlight the dependence on personal vehicles. Traffic, particularly during rush hour, can significantly impact access, potentially delaying appointments and adding stress. This factor weighs into the Breast Cancer Score.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

Public transportation offers an alternative, but its efficacy varies. The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides bus service to and from North Versailles. Several bus routes serve the area, including the 61C, 61D, and 67.

The 61C and 61D routes provide access to downtown Pittsburgh, where several hospitals and cancer centers are located. However, the travel time can be substantial, often exceeding an hour, and transfers may be required. The 67 route provides a more direct connection to McKeesport.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. PAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transit can be a barrier for some individuals, especially those undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. This impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for those who rely on public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering a more convenient alternative to public transit, especially for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the cost can be a factor, and availability may vary depending on the time of day and location.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, can be invaluable. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, they typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs.

The availability of ride-share and medical transportation services contributes positively to the Breast Cancer Score, offering increased flexibility and convenience.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

Evaluating the factors discussed, we can construct a preliminary Breast Cancer Score for 15137. The score is subjective and should be viewed as a general indicator, not a definitive medical assessment.

**Factors Favoring a Higher Score:**

* Proximity to UPMC McKeesport and AHN facilities.
* Availability of ride-share services.
* Presence of public transportation options, though with limitations.

**Factors Lowering the Score:**

* Reliance on personal vehicles, subject to traffic delays.
* Travel times to specialized cancer centers, such as UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.
* Potential limitations of public transit, including travel time and accessibility.

The Breast Cancer Score for 15137 would likely fall in the moderate range. While residents have access to essential healthcare services, including screening and initial treatment options, accessing specialized care may require longer travel times and reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive transportation alternatives.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing a place to live involves considering many factors, and healthcare access is paramount. Understanding the transportation landscape is critical for navigating the healthcare system. For residents of 15137, the Breast Cancer Score reflects a scenario where healthcare access is generally available but requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options.

Before moving to North Versailles, or if you are already a resident, it is essential to research specific healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and your individual transportation needs. Contacting local hospitals, cancer centers, and transportation providers can provide more detailed information. The goal is to empower you to make informed decisions and ensure you have access to the healthcare services you need, should you require them. This information is designed to help you assess your healthcare access in 15137, and hopefully make the process of moving to North Versailles a little easier.