15034, Dravosburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15034, Dravosburg, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.70 percent of residents in 15034 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 2.19 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dravosburg (ZIP Code 15034)

For those considering a move to Dravosburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15034), understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This report provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating transportation options and potential challenges in accessing medical care. Our focus is on the realities of navigating the region, ensuring informed decision-making regarding healthcare access. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, painting a detailed picture of the transportation landscape.

Dravosburg, a small borough nestled along the Monongahela River, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The proximity to Pittsburgh offers access to a wide range of healthcare facilities, but the journey itself can be a significant factor, particularly for those with hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" will consider this in its evaluation.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery connecting Dravosburg to Pittsburgh is **Pennsylvania Route 837**, a crucial road for residents. Heading north towards the city, traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. The distance to UPMC Mercy Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is roughly 10-12 miles, translating to a drive time of 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Another essential route is **Interstate 376 (Parkway East)**, which provides quicker access to downtown Pittsburgh and its hospitals. However, the Parkway East is notorious for congestion, particularly during rush hour. A trip to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, for instance, could take anywhere from 25 to 50 minutes, influenced heavily by traffic.

For those seeking care in the eastern suburbs, **State Route 51** offers a less direct but potentially faster route depending on the destination. Drive times to facilities in areas like McKeesport can range from 15 to 30 minutes, offering a viable alternative to the more congested routes. Understanding these variations is critical for individuals managing hypertension, who need to factor in travel time when planning appointments and managing potential stress.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation services to Dravosburg. The primary bus route serving the area is **Route 51**, which offers service to downtown Pittsburgh and surrounding communities. The frequency of buses varies, with more frequent service during peak hours.

Accessibility is a key consideration for individuals with hypertension. PAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, which are essential for those with mobility limitations. However, the reliability of public transit can be a concern. Delays due to traffic or mechanical issues can significantly impact travel times and potentially disrupt healthcare appointments.

For those living closer to the Monongahela River, the **Monongahela Incline** offers a scenic but less practical option for accessing healthcare in the city. This historic incline provides a direct route to the city but requires transfers to reach most hospitals.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Dravosburg, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be convenient for accessing healthcare facilities, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate, especially during peak hours, and availability may be limited during off-peak times.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by **CareRide** and **Medicaid-approved providers**, are specifically designed for individuals with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained attendants, offering a crucial lifeline for those with mobility limitations or other health challenges. While these services offer peace of mind, booking in advance is essential, and the cost can be a factor.

**The "Hypertension Score" and its Implications:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Dravosburg (ZIP Code 15034) considers the following factors: drive times, public transit reliability, ride-sharing availability, and the accessibility of medical transport services. The score aims to provide a realistic assessment of the ease with which residents can access healthcare, particularly for those managing hypertension.

The score will be lower (indicating greater challenges) if:

* Drive times to major healthcare facilities are consistently long, especially during peak hours.
* Public transit options are infrequent, unreliable, or lack adequate ADA features.
* Ride-sharing services are expensive or have limited availability.
* Medical transport services are unavailable or have long wait times.

Conversely, the score will be higher (indicating better access) if:

* Drive times are relatively short, with multiple route options.
* Public transit is frequent, reliable, and accessible.
* Ride-sharing services are readily available and affordable.
* Medical transport services are readily available and efficient.

**Considerations for Moving to Dravosburg:**

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Dravosburg, careful planning is essential. Before making a decision, prospective residents should:

* Assess their individual healthcare needs and the frequency of required medical appointments.
* Research the location of healthcare providers and estimate drive times during peak and off-peak hours.
* Evaluate the reliability and accessibility of public transit options.
* Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* Factor in potential stress related to transportation challenges, which can impact blood pressure.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the transportation landscape in Dravosburg requires careful consideration. While the borough offers access to a wide range of healthcare facilities in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas, the journey itself can present challenges, especially for those managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" assessment provides a framework for understanding these challenges, enabling informed decision-making for those considering moving to Dravosburg and ensuring they can effectively access the healthcare they need. Understanding these transportation realities is vital for anyone moving to Dravosburg.