15238, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15238, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.23 percent of residents in 15238 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc St Margaret with a distance of 2.00 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15238

Considering a move to Pittsburgh, specifically ZIP Code 15238? This area, encompassing parts of the North Hills, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the city. However, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is crucial, especially when considering factors like hypertension management. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" analysis, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for residents in 15238, a vital consideration for those managing or at risk of high blood pressure.

The ability to readily access medical care is paramount for individuals with hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits necessitate reliable transportation. Our score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this specific ZIP code.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

The primary arteries for transportation in 15238 are the major highways. The accessibility to healthcare facilities via car is largely dependent on these routes. Accessing UPMC Passavant Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically involves navigating the **I-79** corridor. During peak hours, expect delays. The **I-279** (Parkway North) offers another route, but congestion can be significant, particularly during morning and evening commutes. Secondary roads, such as **McKnight Road** and **Perry Highway**, provide alternative routes, but these can be heavily trafficked and subject to traffic lights.

Drive times to various healthcare facilities from 15238 vary. UPMC Passavant Hospital, located in nearby McCandless, is generally a 10-15 minute drive during off-peak hours. However, this can easily double during rush hour. Allegheny General Hospital (AGH), located in the city, is a longer commute, approximately 20-30 minutes under ideal conditions, and potentially exceeding an hour during peak traffic. The location of your specific residence within 15238 will influence these drive times.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transit services to 15238. Bus routes are the primary mode of public transportation. The **13** (Spring Garden) and **16** (Brighton Heights) routes offer connections to downtown Pittsburgh and other areas with healthcare facilities. These routes, however, may involve transfers and longer travel times. The **14** (Ohio Valley) route also provides service, offering access to healthcare facilities in the North Side.

Accessibility is a critical concern for individuals with mobility limitations. PAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially impacting healthcare access. Planning your trips in advance and considering the availability of accessible routes is essential.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplemental Solutions:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services are readily available in 15238, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent medical visits. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further increase costs.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Companies like MedTrans and Access Medical Transportation provide door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly beneficial for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, scheduling in advance is usually required.

**Evaluating the Hypertension Score:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 15238 considers the following factors: drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options.

* **Drive Times:** While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion, particularly on **I-79** and **I-279**, can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours.
* **Public Transit:** PAT bus routes provide a viable option for healthcare access, but longer travel times, potential transfers, and limited service frequency, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a drawback. ADA features are available, but planning is crucial.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Uber and Lyft offer convenient on-demand transportation, but costs can be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.
* **Medical Transport:** Specialized medical transport services provide essential support for individuals with mobility limitations, but require advance scheduling.

**Healthcare Access Considerations for Moving to Pittsburgh:**

When moving to Pittsburgh and considering 15238, carefully assess your individual healthcare needs. If you have hypertension, consider factors such as the frequency of your medical appointments, your ability to drive, and your comfort level with public transit. Research the proximity of healthcare providers to your potential residence.

**Recommendations for 15238 Residents:**

* **Plan Ahead:** Factor in potential traffic delays when driving to appointments.
* **Explore Public Transit:** Familiarize yourself with PAT bus routes and schedules.
* **Utilize Ride-Sharing:** Consider ride-sharing services for convenience, especially during off-peak hours.
* **Investigate Medical Transport:** If you have mobility limitations, explore medical transport options.
* **Choose a Location Wisely:** Consider a location within 15238 that offers easy access to major roadways and public transit routes.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify healthcare providers in the area and assess their accessibility.

The "Hypertension Score" for 15238 reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While driving offers the most direct route, traffic congestion can be a significant factor. Public transit provides a viable alternative, but with some limitations. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer supplementary solutions. By carefully considering these factors and planning accordingly, residents of 15238 can effectively navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure reliable access to essential medical care, crucial for managing hypertension and maintaining overall health.