15133, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15133, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.09 percent of residents in 15133 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 1.68 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15133

Choosing a new home involves myriad considerations, and for individuals managing hypertension, proximity to healthcare is paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in McKeesport, PA (ZIP Code 15133), assessing its impact on healthcare access and ultimately informing a “Hypertension Score” for this location. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how easily residents can reach vital medical services, particularly for those requiring regular check-ups and potential emergency care.

McKeesport, nestled along the Monongahela River, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the area boasts a rich history and affordability, its topography and reliance on a car-centric infrastructure can complicate healthcare access. The “Hypertension Score” will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services to paint a complete picture. This analysis is crucial for prospective residents, especially those considering moving to McKeesport with pre-existing health conditions.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and out of McKeesport are the **PA-837** (Fifth Avenue), **PA-148** (Walnut Street), and the **McKeesport-Duquesne Bridge**. These routes, while essential, can become congested during peak hours, significantly impacting drive times to healthcare facilities. For example, a trip to UPMC McKeesport, the city's primary hospital, from the far eastern reaches of 15133 could take upwards of 20 minutes during rush hour, even though the distance is relatively short.

Further afield, access to larger hospitals in Pittsburgh, such as UPMC Presbyterian or Allegheny General Hospital, necessitates navigating the **Parkway East (I-376)** or the **Parkway West (I-279)**, adding considerable time to the journey. A trip to downtown Pittsburgh could easily consume 30-45 minutes or more, depending on traffic. This extended travel time is a significant consideration for individuals with hypertension, who may require prompt medical attention.

The condition of local roads also plays a role. Potholes and other road hazards can exacerbate travel times and potentially impact vehicle reliability. Moreover, the steep inclines and winding roads common in the area can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations, making the need for accessible transportation options even more critical. The “Hypertension Score” will reflect these nuances.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation services to McKeesport. Several bus routes serve the area, including the **61C** (Oakland/McKeesport), the **67** (Braddock Hills), and the **69** (McKeesport/White Oak). These routes offer a crucial lifeline for those without personal vehicles, connecting residents to healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and other essential services.

However, public transit in McKeesport presents limitations. Service frequency can be infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends, which may restrict access to urgent care or after-hours appointments. The routes themselves may not always directly serve all healthcare providers, necessitating transfers and potentially increasing travel time.

Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. PAT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the public transit system with mobility aids can vary. The “Hypertension Score” will carefully evaluate these factors, recognizing the importance of inclusive transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option in McKeesport. These services provide on-demand access to transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, like MedRide and Access Medical Transportation, specialize in providing transportation for patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who require specialized assistance. They offer a crucial service for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, these services may require advance booking and may be subject to eligibility requirements. The “Hypertension Score” will incorporate the accessibility and affordability of these services.

**The “Hypertension Score” Methodology:**

The “Hypertension Score” will be a composite metric, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Key Healthcare Facilities:** Average drive times to UPMC McKeesport, primary care physicians, and pharmacies during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Frequency of bus routes serving healthcare facilities, ADA compliance, and travel time.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** Availability of Uber and Lyft services, average cost to healthcare destinations.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Availability, eligibility requirements, and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Overall Accessibility:** A subjective assessment of the ease with which residents can access healthcare services, considering all the factors above.

The score will be presented on a scale, providing a clear and concise assessment of the transportation landscape's impact on healthcare access for individuals with hypertension.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape in 15133**

Moving to McKeesport presents both opportunities and challenges. While the city offers affordability and a sense of community, the transportation infrastructure requires careful consideration, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The “Hypertension Score” will provide a valuable tool for prospective residents, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. By understanding the drive times, public transit options, and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, individuals can proactively plan for their healthcare needs and ensure they can readily access the care they require. This thorough analysis underscores the importance of considering transportation as a critical component of healthcare access, especially when contemplating moving to a new area.