15025, Clairton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15025, Clairton, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.27 percent of residents in 15025 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jefferson Hospital with a distance of 1.79 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Clairton, PA (ZIP Code 15025)

The journey to healthcare in Clairton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15025), is a multifaceted challenge, particularly for residents managing hypertension. Understanding the intricacies of transportation options is paramount to ensuring timely medical attention and effective management of this chronic condition. This write-up provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options, aiming to inform residents and prospective movers about the realities of healthcare access in Clairton, offering a “Hypertension Score” based on commute times and accessibility.

Clairton, nestled in the Monongahela Valley, presents unique geographical constraints that significantly impact transportation. The town's location, surrounded by hills and rivers, necessitates reliance on specific roadways. The primary thoroughfare is **PA Route 837**, a vital artery connecting Clairton to surrounding communities. However, this road is often congested, particularly during peak hours, which can exacerbate commute times.

**PA Route 51**, a major highway, provides access to Pittsburgh, but its distance from Clairton and potential for traffic bottlenecks can make it a less-than-ideal option for routine medical appointments. Access to healthcare is intrinsically linked to the availability of transportation, and in Clairton, this is a critical factor.

The "Hypertension Score" will be based on the estimated commute times to key healthcare facilities, considering the available transportation methods. This score will be subjective, reflecting the challenges faced by individuals with hypertension who require regular medical check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care. The score will be categorized as: Excellent (minimal commute times, multiple options), Good (reasonable commute times, some options), Fair (longer commute times, limited options), and Poor (significant commute times, very limited options).

Public transportation in Clairton is primarily provided by the **Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT)**. The primary bus route serving Clairton is the **51/51L** route. This route connects Clairton to downtown Pittsburgh, offering access to a wider range of healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of the 51/51L can be a limiting factor, and the total commute time can be lengthy, potentially exceeding an hour during peak hours.

The **59** route provides a more direct connection to communities south of Clairton, like Elizabeth, but this route offers less healthcare access. The **53** route provides service to the South Hills area. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with hypertension, who may experience mobility limitations. PAT buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, however, the availability of accessible routes and the reliability of these features are crucial factors.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Clairton. These services can offer a more flexible and convenient option compared to public transit, particularly for those with mobility issues or those needing to reach facilities outside of the bus routes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for individuals on fixed incomes or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments, are also available. **Medical Transport Services** and **Liberty Transportation** are two examples of providers serving the Pittsburgh area. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have limited availability, especially for short-notice appointments.

The closest major healthcare facilities to Clairton include **UPMC McKeesport Hospital** and **Jefferson Hospital**. Commute times to these facilities vary depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. Driving to UPMC McKeesport Hospital via PA Route 837 is typically a 15-20 minute drive, assuming moderate traffic. Driving to Jefferson Hospital, located in Jefferson Hills, is a 20-30 minute drive via PA Route 51, accounting for potential congestion.

Taking the PAT bus to either hospital can significantly increase commute times. The 51/51L route to downtown Pittsburgh, followed by a transfer to another bus, can easily extend the journey to over an hour. The 59 route to Elizabeth, followed by a ride share, might be a shorter commute, but less access to healthcare. Ride-sharing services offer a faster alternative, but the cost can be prohibitive. Medical transport services provide a convenient option but require advance planning.

The "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access in Clairton, considering the factors outlined above, is **Fair**. While residents have access to several transportation options, each presents challenges. Driving is subject to traffic congestion, public transit is time-consuming, ride-sharing can be expensive, and medical transport services require pre-planning.

Moving to Clairton, with its proximity to Pittsburgh and its own unique community, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension must factor in the commute times, costs, and accessibility limitations of the available transportation options. Prioritizing access to healthcare is vital for managing hypertension, and understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about where to live and how to access medical care.

The ongoing development of Clairton and the surrounding communities may bring improvements to the transportation infrastructure. Investing in public transportation, expanding ride-sharing options, and increasing the availability of medical transportation services can significantly improve healthcare access for residents with hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" can serve as a benchmark for evaluating these improvements and ensuring that Clairton remains a viable community for those seeking quality healthcare and a fulfilling life.

Ultimately, the ability to navigate the transportation challenges in Clairton is directly linked to the effective management of hypertension. Residents must proactively plan their healthcare journeys, considering all available options and prioritizing their health needs. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical facilities, but also about the ability to reach them.