15142, Presto, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15142, Presto, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.95 percent of residents in 15142 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Clair Hospital with a distance of 3.05 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 15142

ZIP Code 15142, encompassing the borough of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, presents a complex landscape for residents managing hypertension. The very fabric of daily life, particularly the availability and efficiency of transportation, significantly impacts their healthcare access. This write-up explores the transportation challenges and opportunities within this specific area, ultimately constructing a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching essential medical care.

The fundamental challenge lies in the geography. McKees Rocks, nestled along the Ohio River, is hemmed in by hills and waterways. This topography influences transportation options, creating potential barriers to healthcare access for those with mobility limitations or without personal vehicles. The ability to consistently and reliably reach medical appointments is crucial for managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular monitoring and medication adherence.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary arteries serving 15142 are the **Parkway West (I-376)** and **Ohio River Boulevard (Route 65)**. The Parkway West, while providing relatively quick access to downtown Pittsburgh and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) hospitals, can experience significant congestion, particularly during peak hours. A typical drive to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, for example, could range from 15 minutes during off-peak times to upwards of 45 minutes during rush hour. This variability is a critical factor in the Hypertension Score, as unpredictable travel times can disrupt medication schedules and increase stress levels, both detrimental to managing hypertension.

Ohio River Boulevard offers a more scenic route, hugging the river's edge, but it is often slower and more prone to traffic lights. It provides access to local medical facilities, such as those in the neighboring communities of Robinson Township and Moon Township. Drive times to these facilities are generally shorter, typically 10-20 minutes, but the availability of specialized care might be limited compared to the larger hospitals in Pittsburgh. The condition of the roads, including potholes and the occasional construction, further impacts the reliability of these routes.

Local roads, such as **Chartiers Avenue** and **Broadway Avenue**, are essential for accessing local pharmacies, primary care physicians, and urgent care centers. These roads are often narrow and can be congested, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times. The presence of traffic signals and pedestrian crossings further slows travel. Residents relying on these roads for daily healthcare needs face a constant need for planning and patience.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation to 15142, primarily through bus routes. Several routes, including the **22** (Oakmont), **24** (Westwood), and **31** (Bridgeville), serve the area. The frequency of these buses varies, with some routes offering more frequent service than others, particularly during peak hours.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor. All PAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the condition of sidewalks leading to these stops can vary. This is a significant consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, who may find it challenging to navigate the infrastructure.

The overall reliability of public transportation is another concern. Delays due to traffic, mechanical issues, or weather can disrupt healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the travel time on public transit is typically longer than driving, adding to the overall time commitment required to access healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 15142. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some residents, especially those on fixed incomes.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by **Medicaid** and private companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, eligibility requirements and the availability of these services can vary.

**The Hypertension Score: A Framework for Assessment**

To construct a Hypertension Score for 15142, we consider several factors: drive times to various healthcare facilities, the frequency and reliability of public transportation, the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the accessibility of transportation options for individuals with disabilities.

We can assign numerical values to each factor. For example, drive times can be graded on a scale, with shorter drive times receiving higher scores. Public transportation reliability can be assessed based on on-time performance data. Ride-sharing costs can be factored in based on average fares. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities can be assessed based on the availability of accessible infrastructure and services.

By combining these scores, we can create an overall Hypertension Score for 15142. A higher score would indicate better healthcare access, while a lower score would indicate greater challenges. This score is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the transportation landscape and its impact on residents' ability to manage their hypertension.

**Moving to Presto: A Path to Improvement**

The implementation of the Presto system, a regional fare payment system, could potentially improve healthcare access in 15142. Presto allows for seamless transfers between different modes of transportation, including buses, light rail, and potentially even ride-sharing services. This would streamline travel and reduce the time and effort required to reach medical appointments.

Furthermore, Presto data can be used to identify areas where transportation needs are greatest. This information can be used to improve public transportation service, such as by increasing the frequency of buses on routes serving healthcare facilities or by expanding the availability of accessible transportation options.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

ZIP Code 15142 presents a nuanced picture of healthcare access. While residents have access to various transportation options, challenges remain, particularly for those with mobility limitations or limited financial resources. The Hypertension Score, informed by drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, serves as a valuable tool for understanding the barriers to healthcare access.

By focusing on improving public transportation, expanding the availability of accessible transportation options, and leveraging technology like Presto, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment for residents managing hypertension. This requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community organizations. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents of 15142 can readily access the healthcare they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.