15084, Tarentum, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15084, Tarentum, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.69 percent of residents in 15084 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Allegheny Valley Hospital with a distance of 2.28 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tarentum (ZIP Code 15084)

Considering a move to Tarentum, Pennsylvania, and concerned about lung cancer healthcare access? This Lung Cancer Score analysis for ZIP code 15084 provides a detailed overview of transportation options to key medical facilities, crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. This assessment considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access. Your health journey in Tarentum hinges on understanding these factors.

The cornerstone of our analysis centers on healthcare access, specifically the availability and ease of reaching facilities equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This includes hospitals with oncology departments, radiation therapy centers, and pulmonologists’ offices. We will evaluate the efficiency of various transportation methods in connecting you to these critical resources.

**Driving the Route: Navigating the Roads**

For those preferring the autonomy of a personal vehicle, the primary artery connecting Tarentum to healthcare hubs is the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) and the Allegheny Valley Expressway (PA-28). Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours.

Allegheny Valley Hospital, a vital healthcare provider, is a relatively short drive. From Tarentum, accessing the hospital via PA-28 is typically a 10-15 minute journey, depending on traffic. The route is straightforward, offering a direct connection to the hospital's entrance.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or surgical oncology, you might need to travel to Pittsburgh. UPMC Presbyterian, a major tertiary care center, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, assuming moderate traffic. The route generally involves taking PA-28 south and then navigating city streets. UPMC Shadyside, another prominent facility, is similarly accessible, with comparable drive times.

The drive times are, of course, subject to change based on traffic. Consider using real-time traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze to adjust your travel plans accordingly. These apps can provide up-to-the-minute information on accidents, construction, and congestion, helping you avoid delays and arrive at your appointments on time.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation services in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, including Tarentum. Several bus routes serve the area, offering an alternative to driving.

The 91, 93, and 96 routes are the most relevant to healthcare access. These routes connect Tarentum to Pittsburgh, including stops near hospitals and medical centers. However, travel times on public transit are generally longer than driving.

The 91 route, for example, provides a direct connection to downtown Pittsburgh, where you can transfer to other routes to reach hospitals. The 93 route offers a more direct route to Allegheny Valley Hospital. The 96 route provides access to the eastern suburbs.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. PAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, and designated seating areas are available for individuals with disabilities. However, it is always advisable to check the specific route schedules and accessibility features before traveling.

Public transit offers a cost-effective option, particularly for those without a car or who prefer to avoid the stress of driving. However, the longer travel times and potential for delays must be considered.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in the Tarentum area. They offer a convenient and flexible transportation option, especially for short trips to local medical appointments.

Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for those who are unable to drive or who prefer not to drive. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and Liberty Transportation, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. They may also provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to meet the needs of patients with mobility limitations or other medical conditions. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access: Putting it All Together**

The Lung Cancer Score for Tarentum (ZIP code 15084) is moderate. While driving offers the fastest access to healthcare facilities, public transit and ride-sharing provide viable alternatives.

The key is to carefully consider your individual needs and preferences. If you are able to drive and prefer the convenience of a personal vehicle, you will likely find the drive times to healthcare facilities to be manageable.

If you are unable to drive or prefer not to drive, public transit and ride-sharing are available options. However, be prepared for longer travel times and potential delays. Medical transport services are available for those who require specialized assistance.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score for Tarentum reflects a community with a good base of healthcare access. The various transportation options provide a foundation for getting the care you need. The ability to move efficiently to healthcare is paramount.

**Moving to Tarentum: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals with lung cancer considering a move to Tarentum, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. The availability of multiple transportation modes, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offers flexibility.

Before making a decision, assess your mobility limitations, financial resources, and preferred mode of transportation. Research the specific healthcare facilities you may need to access, including their locations and accessibility features.

Planning ahead is essential. Familiarize yourself with the bus routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services in the area. Consider the impact of traffic conditions and potential delays on your travel plans.

Moving to Tarentum can be a positive experience, but it is essential to proactively address your transportation needs to ensure timely access to healthcare. This Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a starting point for making informed decisions.