15046, Crescent, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15046, Crescent, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.60 percent of residents in 15046 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Heritage Valley Sewickley with a distance of 2.87 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Crescent, PA (ZIP Code 15046)**

Understanding the ease with which residents of Crescent, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15046) can access healthcare is critical, especially for those managing conditions like hypertension. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, providing a 'Hypertension Score' based on the available options, drive times, and accessibility features. The goal is to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking timely medical care.

Crescent, a small community nestled along the Ohio River, presents unique transportation challenges. The area is predominantly suburban, with limited public transit options. This necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or specialized medical transport for many residents, particularly those with mobility limitations.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Crescent are Interstate 376 (the "Parkway West") and the nearby roads like Brodhead Road and Montour Run Road. Drive times to medical facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, especially during peak hours.

For residents needing immediate care, the closest emergency room is UPMC McKeesport Hospital, located approximately 15 miles away. Driving time, without traffic, is around 25-30 minutes. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 45 minutes or longer, significantly impacting the ability to receive timely treatment for a hypertensive crisis.

UPMC Mercy Hospital, located in downtown Pittsburgh, is a more comprehensive facility offering specialized cardiology services. The drive, primarily via I-376, is roughly 20 miles and takes about 30-40 minutes without traffic. Traffic congestion, particularly around the Fort Pitt Tunnel, can substantially increase travel time.

Another option, Allegheny General Hospital, is about 25 miles away, with a drive time of 40-50 minutes. The route involves navigating I-376 and city streets, making it susceptible to traffic delays.

These drive times emphasize the importance of proactive hypertension management. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments are crucial to minimize the need for emergency care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Crescent are limited. The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides bus service, but routes serving the area are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

Route 28 (Moon Township) offers service, but its schedule is limited, particularly on weekends and evenings. This route might provide access to some medical offices or clinics in nearby communities, but direct access to major hospitals is unlikely.

The PAT's accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts and audio-visual announcements, are essential for ADA compliance. However, the limited frequency and route coverage pose a significant challenge for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

For residents relying on public transit, planning medical appointments requires careful consideration of bus schedules and potential delays. The lack of direct routes to major hospitals necessitates transfers, further increasing travel time and complexity.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Crescent, providing an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as medical transportation companies, are designed to transport individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel.

While medical transport services provide a valuable resource, they can be expensive, and booking in advance is often required. Availability can also be limited, especially during peak hours or for short-notice appointments.

**The 'Hypertension Score' and Its Implications**

The 'Hypertension Score' for Crescent (15046) reflects the challenges in accessing healthcare. It considers drive times, public transit limitations, and the reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport. The score would be lower than areas with more robust public transit or closer proximity to medical facilities.

The score highlights the importance of proactive hypertension management. Residents must be prepared for potential delays in accessing emergency care. They must also consider the financial and logistical burdens of transportation when scheduling appointments.

For individuals considering moving to Crescent, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The availability of reliable transportation options should be a key factor in their decision.

**Moving to Crescent: A Healthcare Perspective**

For those considering moving to Crescent, the healthcare access situation should be carefully evaluated. While the area offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, healthcare access requires careful planning.

Individuals with hypertension or other chronic conditions should assess their ability to manage their health in this environment. This includes evaluating their access to transportation, the availability of local medical providers, and the proximity of emergency care facilities.

Living in Crescent necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, ensuring access to necessary medications, and developing a transportation plan are crucial for maintaining good health.

The goal is to promote informed decision-making and ensure that residents can access the care they need to manage their health effectively. The 'Hypertension Score' serves as a reminder that transportation is a critical factor in healthcare access, especially in areas with limited public transit options.