15085, Trafford, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15085, Trafford, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.62 percent of residents in 15085 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Forbes Hospital with a distance of 2.88 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Trafford, PA (ZIP Code 15085)

Considering a move to Trafford, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15085)? Beyond the charm of this borough nestled in Westmoreland County, a crucial aspect to assess is your access to healthcare, particularly if you're managing hypertension. This write-up explores the landscape of healthcare access in Trafford, focusing on transportation options and potential challenges, ultimately aiming to provide a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can reach medical care.

Trafford’s location, approximately 20 miles east of Pittsburgh, significantly impacts its healthcare access. While the borough itself may offer some local options, specialized care and comprehensive facilities often necessitate travel. This reality is especially critical for individuals with hypertension, a condition requiring regular monitoring and potential emergency interventions. The ability to quickly and reliably reach a healthcare provider is paramount.

**The Highways and Byways: A Driving Perspective**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for many Trafford residents. The primary arteries connecting Trafford to healthcare facilities are the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) and US Route 30. The Pennsylvania Turnpike provides relatively direct access to Pittsburgh hospitals, but tolls and potential traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can add significant time and stress, both detrimental to individuals managing hypertension.

US Route 30, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers an alternative route. However, it's often subject to traffic, especially near shopping centers and during rush hour. The drive to UPMC East in Monroeville, a major hospital, typically takes 15-20 minutes via US Route 30, assuming moderate traffic. Going to Allegheny Health Network's Forbes Hospital in Monroeville, the drive is similar.

The distance to downtown Pittsburgh hospitals, such as UPMC Presbyterian or UPMC Shadyside, can range from 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken, often requiring a combination of highways and local roads. This extended travel time can be a significant concern for those experiencing a hypertensive crisis.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Trafford are limited. The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides bus service, but routes serving Trafford are infrequent and often involve transfers. The 67, 67A, and 67B bus routes offer limited service, primarily connecting Trafford to nearby communities and potentially to the Monroeville transit hub.

These routes, while offering an alternative to driving, may not be ideal for individuals with hypertension. The infrequent schedules, potential for delays, and the necessity of transfers can increase travel time and stress. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features, such as ramps and designated seating, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, which may be present in some hypertensive patients. Confirming the accessibility of specific routes and stops is essential.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Trafford. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate, and availability may be limited during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and may include wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and local ambulance services offer such options. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing assistance, they can be costly and require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access: Assessing the Landscape**

Several healthcare facilities are within reasonable driving distance of Trafford. UPMC East in Monroeville offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology. Allegheny Health Network's Forbes Hospital, also in Monroeville, provides similar services. These facilities are crucial for individuals managing hypertension, offering emergency care, specialist consultations, and ongoing monitoring.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians' offices are also present in the surrounding communities, providing essential preventative care and medication management. However, access to specialized cardiology care may require travel to larger hospitals.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Considerations for Moving to Trafford**

Given the transportation landscape, the "Hypertension Score" for Trafford, PA (15085) can be considered moderate. While driving offers relatively direct access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on highways and local roads, coupled with potential traffic congestion, introduces variability and potential delays. Public transportation is limited, and ride-sharing availability and cost can be factors.

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Trafford, several factors must be carefully considered. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the ease of access to those facilities, and the availability of reliable transportation options are paramount.

Individuals should assess their ability to drive safely, considering the potential for traffic and the need for frequent medical appointments. If driving is not an option, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services become crucial.

Furthermore, the proximity of the residence to bus routes and the frequency of service should be investigated. The location of primary care physicians and specialists, particularly cardiologists, should be considered.

The "Hypertension Score" serves as a tool to help assess the ease of access to healthcare, and should be used in conjunction with other factors.