15135, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15135, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.39 percent of residents in 15135 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 3.78 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in McKeesport (ZIP Code 15135)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is a critical factor in treatment outcomes. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around McKeesport, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15135), assessing the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare services. We will examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, offering a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to McKeesport, weighing the impact of transportation on healthcare access.

McKeesport, nestled in the Monongahela Valley, presents unique transportation challenges. The city's topography, coupled with its historical development, influences travel patterns. The primary artery for vehicular travel is the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-376)**, which provides access to Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. **Route 837**, running along the Monongahela River, serves as a crucial local thoroughfare, connecting McKeesport to neighboring communities. **Fifth Avenue** and **Walnut Street** act as internal connectors within the city.

Drive times to key healthcare facilities offering lung cancer services are a significant consideration. UPMC McKeesport, located within the city, provides initial care and some specialized services. A drive to UPMC Presbyterian, a major tertiary care center in Pittsburgh, typically takes 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic on the **Parkway East (I-376)**. Rush hour can significantly extend this commute. UPMC Shadyside, another prominent Pittsburgh hospital, is accessible within a similar timeframe, also relying on the **Parkway East**.

Public transportation, managed by the Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT), offers an alternative. Several bus routes serve McKeesport. The **51, 53, and 61C** routes connect McKeesport to downtown Pittsburgh, providing access to hospitals and specialist clinics. The **59** route provides service to the Waterfront and Homestead areas. However, the frequency of these routes can be a limiting factor, especially during evenings and weekends.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial aspect of public transit. PAT strives to ensure its buses are accessible, featuring ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the physical demands of navigating bus stops, especially during inclement weather, can be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. Availability in McKeesport is generally good, though surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs. This option provides door-to-door service, which can be beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those experiencing treatment side effects.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, are also available. Companies like CareRide and MedRide specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide assistance with door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for McKeesport, therefore, is influenced by a combination of factors. The proximity of UPMC McKeesport offers immediate access to care. However, the reliance on the **Parkway East (I-376)** for access to specialized care in Pittsburgh introduces potential delays due to traffic. Public transit provides an alternative, but frequency and accessibility can be a challenge. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer valuable solutions, but their cost and availability need to be considered.

For individuals considering moving to McKeesport, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those with lung cancer or at high risk should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities and consider the reliability of various transportation options. The ease of **transportation** significantly impacts **healthcare access**.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a single number but a multifaceted evaluation. It reflects the interplay of drive times, public transit reliability, ADA accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of specialized medical transportation services. The score is dynamic, subject to changes in traffic patterns, public transit schedules, and the availability of transportation providers.

The **transportation** infrastructure in McKeesport, while offering various options, presents challenges. The **Parkway East (I-376)**, while providing rapid access to Pittsburgh, is prone to congestion. Public transit, while offering an affordable alternative, may not always be convenient or frequent. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer flexibility but come with associated costs.

For residents of McKeesport, understanding these nuances is critical. Patients should proactively plan their **transportation** to medical appointments, considering all available options and accounting for potential delays. Engaging with healthcare providers to explore transportation assistance programs can also be beneficial.

The **healthcare access** landscape in McKeesport is a complex interplay of geographical factors, infrastructure limitations, and the availability of alternative **transportation** solutions. Evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" involves a careful assessment of all these elements.

In conclusion, while McKeesport offers a range of **transportation** options, the **healthcare access** landscape, particularly for lung cancer patients, requires careful consideration. The **transportation** infrastructure impacts the ability to receive timely and effective care. Individuals **moving to McKeesport** should meticulously assess their **transportation** needs and plan accordingly to ensure access to the necessary healthcare services. The "Lung Cancer Score" for McKeesport reflects the dynamic interplay of these factors, highlighting the importance of informed decision-making in navigating the journey to healthcare.