15046, Crescent, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer 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.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crescent, PA (ZIP Code 15046)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is a critical component of patient outcomes. For residents of Crescent, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15046), this journey involves a complex interplay of transportation options, each with its own set of challenges and advantages. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors like drive times, public transit accessibility, and ride-sharing availability, all crucial for understanding healthcare access in this community. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the landscape, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, particularly for those considering moving to Crescent.

Crescent, nestled along the Ohio River, offers a blend of suburban and semi-rural living. Its proximity to Pittsburgh, however, significantly impacts healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare connecting Crescent to the city is the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)**, a toll road that provides a relatively direct route to major medical centers. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can dramatically increase travel times. Another crucial artery is **Route 65**, which runs parallel to the Ohio River, offering a more scenic but often slower alternative, especially when dealing with local traffic and stoplights.

For residents needing to access healthcare facilities located in the western suburbs, such as Heritage Valley Sewickley, the drive via **I-79** is often the most efficient, but it also carries the risk of heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour. The time it takes to reach these facilities is a critical factor, as timely access to diagnosis and treatment is paramount for lung cancer patients. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the average drive times to key hospitals and treatment centers, accounting for both optimal and peak-hour traffic conditions.

Public transportation plays a role, albeit a limited one, in Crescent's healthcare access. The **Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT)** provides bus service to the area. The primary route serving Crescent is the **21 Moon Township** bus. While this route offers a connection to Pittsburgh, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier. Furthermore, the bus route's limitations, such as its lack of direct access to all healthcare facilities, must be considered.

The **21 Moon Township** bus does offer ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, making it a viable option for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the overall reliance on public transit for healthcare access in Crescent is low, primarily due to the limited route coverage and potential for extended travel times. The "Lung Cancer Score" will factor in the accessibility and reliability of the bus service, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses for lung cancer patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer another avenue for transportation to healthcare appointments. The availability of these services in Crescent is generally good, but the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, ride-sharing services are not always readily available during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The "Lung Cancer Score" will assess the affordability and reliability of ride-sharing options, considering their impact on healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as **MedTrans** and **CareRide**, are specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and appointments. While these services provide valuable support, they often come at a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing. The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability and cost-effectiveness of medical transportation services, recognizing their vital role in ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will also consider the proximity of Crescent to major hospitals and cancer treatment centers. **UPMC Presbyterian**, **UPMC Shadyside**, and **Allegheny General Hospital**, all located in Pittsburgh, are major healthcare providers. The drive times to these facilities, particularly during peak traffic, will be a key determinant of the score. The score will also factor in the presence of specialized cancer treatment centers, such as the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, and their accessibility from Crescent.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and transportation assistance programs offered by hospitals and cancer centers, will also be considered. These programs can significantly ease the burden of transportation for lung cancer patients. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the availability of these resources and their impact on healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Crescent, this "Lung Cancer Score" provides a crucial framework for evaluating healthcare access. It highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on the ability to receive timely and appropriate care. The score will consider all factors, from drive times to public transit options and ride-sharing availability, to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access in ZIP Code 15046.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a numerical rating; it is a tool for empowerment. It helps residents understand the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Crescent, allowing them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, exploring all available transportation options, and seeking support from healthcare providers and community resources. The ultimate goal is to ensure that residents of Crescent, particularly those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, can navigate the transportation challenges and receive the care they deserve.