15332, Finleyville, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15332, Finleyville, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.33 percent of residents in 15332 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jefferson Hospital with a distance of 5.72 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Finleyville, PA (ZIP Code 15332)**

The air hangs heavy in the Monongahela Valley, a reality for many residing in Finleyville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15332). For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), this air quality, combined with the challenges of accessing healthcare, significantly impacts their quality of life. This analysis assesses the transportation landscape within and surrounding Finleyville, providing a "COPD Score" that reflects the ease, or lack thereof, of commuting to healthcare facilities, a critical factor for those managing this respiratory illness. Considering factors like drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, the score provides a nuanced understanding of healthcare access for potential residents, especially those contemplating moving to Finleyville.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Finleyville is the proximity to medical facilities. The closest hospital, Canonsburg Hospital, is approximately 15 miles away. The primary route involves navigating the winding roads, primarily using **PA-88** and **PA-519**. Driving during peak hours can be a significant challenge. Traffic congestion, particularly near the intersection of PA-88 and PA-519, can extend travel times, increasing exposure to pollutants and adding to the physical strain for COPD patients. Expect a drive time of around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Further afield, UPMC facilities in Pittsburgh, including UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside, offer specialized pulmonology and respiratory care. Reaching these facilities necessitates a longer commute. The most direct route involves **PA-51** North, leading to the Parkway West (**I-376**) or the **I-79** North. This journey, spanning roughly 25-35 miles, translates to a drive time of 45 minutes to an hour, or more, during rush hour. This extended travel time can be exhausting, especially for individuals with breathing difficulties.

Public transportation options within Finleyville are limited. The primary provider is the **Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT)**. However, the availability of bus routes directly serving Finleyville is sparse. The primary route connecting to the city is the **P10** (or the **61A**). The **P10** route, while providing access to Pittsburgh, operates on a limited schedule, particularly on weekends. This route can be a lifeline for those without personal vehicles, but the infrequent service and potential for long wait times can be problematic.

Furthermore, the accessibility of PAT buses for individuals with mobility limitations is a crucial consideration. All PAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features. However, the distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities, particularly in Pittsburgh, can be a challenge. Navigating sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, especially in areas with heavy traffic, poses additional difficulties for COPD patients. The lack of readily available information regarding the accessibility of specific bus stops and the presence of accessible routes to medical facilities can add to the complexity of public transit use.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, potentially reducing the physical exertion associated with commuting. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services in Finleyville may vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another option. Companies like MedRide and CareRide offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. These services are often covered by insurance, making them more affordable than ride-sharing. However, the availability of these services in Finleyville and the surrounding areas should be confirmed.

The "COPD Score" for Finleyville, considering the transportation landscape, is moderate. The limited public transit options, the potential for long drive times, and the cost of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals with COPD. While ride-sharing and medical transport offer viable alternatives, their accessibility and affordability must be carefully evaluated. The lack of readily available information regarding the accessibility of specific bus stops and the presence of accessible routes to medical facilities can add to the complexity of public transit use.

The absence of dedicated, frequent public transit routes to healthcare facilities is a significant drawback. The reliance on personal vehicles or the cost of alternative transportation services can place a considerable burden on individuals managing COPD. The potential for exposure to air pollution during commutes further exacerbates the challenges faced by these individuals.

For those contemplating moving to Finleyville, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the affordability of alternative transportation services should be carefully considered. The "COPD Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing the ease of healthcare access, a critical factor in ensuring a good quality of life for individuals with COPD. Further, the availability of medical transportation services and the accessibility of bus stops and routes to medical facilities should be considered.

The Monongahela Valley's beauty and the charm of Finleyville can be overshadowed by the logistical challenges of healthcare access. The "COPD Score" highlights the need for improved public transit options, increased awareness of accessible routes, and the expansion of affordable transportation services to ensure that residents with COPD can readily access the care they need. This score serves as a call to action, urging the community to address the transportation barriers that impact the health and well-being of its residents.