15228, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15228, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.05 percent of residents in 15228 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Clair Hospital with a distance of 1.63 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15228

Considering a move to Pittsburgh, specifically ZIP Code 15228? This analysis provides a “Breast Cancer Score,” a composite assessment of transportation options and healthcare access for individuals facing or concerned about breast cancer. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a practical guide to navigating the healthcare landscape in this area. Understanding these factors is crucial for informed decision-making, especially when dealing with the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a definitive medical assessment, but rather a practical tool to evaluate the ease of accessing essential healthcare services. It acknowledges the critical role of transportation in ensuring timely appointments, treatments, and support. The score considers proximity to hospitals, cancer centers, and related services, alongside the efficiency and reliability of available transportation options. This allows prospective residents to evaluate the convenience and accessibility of healthcare within the 15228 ZIP Code.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times**

For those who prefer the autonomy of driving, understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities is paramount. From the heart of 15228, access to major hospitals and cancer centers is generally manageable, but traffic patterns can significantly impact travel times.

To UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, a leading center for women's health, the most direct route typically involves taking **Forbes Avenue** eastward. Depending on traffic, particularly during rush hour, the drive can range from 15 to 30 minutes. The route is generally straightforward, but congestion near the University of Pittsburgh campus can be a bottleneck.

Another critical destination is Allegheny General Hospital (AGH), located on the North Side. The most common route involves utilizing **Interstate 279 South** (the Parkway North). Drive times can vary considerably, from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on the Parkway and around the city center.

For those seeking specialized cancer care, the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, with multiple locations, is an important consideration. The closest location to 15228 might involve navigating **Forbes Avenue** or **Fifth Avenue** eastward, potentially adding 15 to 25 minutes to the travel time.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City**

Pittsburgh's public transit system, operated by the Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT), offers a valuable alternative to driving, especially for those who may not drive or prefer to avoid the stress of traffic. Several bus routes serve the 15228 area, providing access to healthcare facilities.

The **61A, 61B, and 61C** bus routes, which traverse through various neighborhoods, offer connections to downtown Pittsburgh, where transfers to other routes are possible. These routes can provide access to hospitals and cancer centers, though travel times can be longer than driving.

The **61D** route, operating through the area, can also provide convenient access to medical facilities. While buses are generally accessible, it's crucial to confirm ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features like ramps and designated seating. Check the PAT website for real-time information and route updates.

Public transit is a cost-effective option, but it's essential to factor in potential delays and the need for transfers. Planning ahead and allowing ample time for travel is crucial, especially for appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to both driving and public transit. These services are readily available in Pittsburgh, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities.

Ride-sharing offers flexibility and can be a good option for those who prefer door-to-door service. However, costs can fluctuate based on demand and time of day.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local companies, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

**Specific Medical Transport Options**

Several companies offer medical transport services in the Pittsburgh area. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals who require assistance getting to and from appointments.

Companies like MedTrans and First Call Medical Transport provide non-emergency medical transportation. They offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations**

The Breast Cancer Score for 15228 considers the following: drive times to major hospitals and cancer centers, accessibility of public transit routes, availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options.

The score will be higher for areas with shorter drive times, frequent and reliable public transit, readily available ride-sharing, and accessible medical transport services.

**Healthcare Access in 15228**

The 15228 ZIP Code benefits from its proximity to major healthcare providers. UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, and Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) are all within a reasonable distance.

The availability of public transit and ride-sharing services further enhances healthcare access. However, the reliance on these options might increase travel times, especially during peak hours.

**Moving to Pittsburgh with Breast Cancer Concerns**

For individuals considering a move to Pittsburgh, particularly those with breast cancer concerns, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Researching specific healthcare facilities, assessing drive times, and evaluating public transit and ride-sharing options are essential steps.

The 15228 ZIP Code offers a relatively good balance of healthcare access and transportation options. However, individual needs and preferences should guide the final decision.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

The Breast Cancer Score is a starting point for evaluating healthcare access in 15228. It emphasizes the importance of considering transportation options when planning for healthcare needs.

By understanding drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, individuals can make informed decisions about where to live and how to access the care they need. This empowers them to navigate the healthcare system with greater confidence and ease.