15136, Mc Kees Rocks, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15136, Mc Kees Rocks, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.87 percent of residents in 15136 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Heritage Valley Kennedy with a distance of 0.65 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 15136

The fight against lung cancer demands swift and reliable healthcare access, a crucial factor often overlooked in the broader context of diagnosis and treatment. This write-up focuses on the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 15136 (McKees Rocks, PA), evaluating its impact on healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer. Understanding the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, is paramount in determining the Lung Cancer Score, a metric reflecting the ease with which residents can reach vital medical facilities. Considering the transportation options is essential for those moving to McKees Rocks.

The Lung Cancer Score is not simply a number; it is a nuanced assessment of the barriers and facilitators to healthcare access. It considers factors like drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their well-being.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways to Recovery**

For many residents of 15136, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The proximity to major roadways significantly impacts drive times to healthcare facilities. The primary artery, **Route 60**, provides direct access to Pittsburgh and its vast array of hospitals and specialized clinics. A drive east on Route 60 quickly connects to the **Parkway West (I-376)**, the major interstate highway leading to UPMC Presbyterian, UPMC Shadyside, and other prominent medical centers.

Drive times, however, are subject to the whims of traffic. Rush hour, typically from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, can significantly extend travel times. A trip that might take 20 minutes during off-peak hours could easily double during peak congestion. Therefore, the Lung Cancer Score must account for these variations, considering both optimal and worst-case scenarios.

Navigating local roads also presents challenges. **Chartiers Avenue**, a key thoroughfare within McKees Rocks, can experience heavy traffic, especially near the business district. Other roads, such as **Island Avenue** and **Broadway**, provide alternative routes but may be less direct. Residents must be aware of these potential bottlenecks and plan their journeys accordingly. The condition of the roads, including potholes and construction zones, can further impact travel times and the overall driving experience.

**Public Transit: A Network of Accessibility**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation services to 15136, offering an alternative for those without personal vehicles or those seeking to avoid the stress of driving. Several bus routes serve the area, with varying degrees of accessibility.

**Route 22 (Chartiers Valley)** is a crucial route, connecting McKees Rocks to downtown Pittsburgh and other surrounding communities. This route offers frequent service, making it a viable option for accessing medical appointments. **Route 21 (West End)** provides another option, although its frequency may be less consistent.

The Lung Cancer Score must evaluate the accessibility features of these routes. All PAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the availability of accessible stops and the distance from bus stops to medical facilities are critical considerations. A long walk from the bus stop to the hospital can be a significant obstacle for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

The PAT also offers accessible paratransit services, known as Access, for individuals who cannot use the regular bus system due to disabilities. This service requires advance booking and provides door-to-door transportation. While Access offers a crucial lifeline, it can be subject to delays and requires careful planning.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services are readily available in 15136 and provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips.

The Lung Cancer Score must consider the affordability of ride-sharing services and their availability during peak hours. Surge pricing, a common practice during periods of high demand, can significantly increase the cost of a ride, potentially creating a barrier to healthcare access.

Specialized medical transport services also play a vital role, particularly for patients who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical needs. Companies like MedStar and others offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service and assistance with medical equipment. These services can be invaluable for patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other treatments.

The Lung Cancer Score must evaluate the availability and cost of these specialized services, considering their impact on the overall healthcare access landscape.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for 15136 is not a simple calculation; it is a multifaceted evaluation that considers the interplay of various transportation factors. It takes into account drive times during peak and off-peak hours, the frequency and accessibility of public transit routes, the affordability and availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transport options.

The score also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, cancer centers, and primary care physicians. A higher concentration of medical facilities within a reasonable distance will positively impact the score.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score must factor in the socioeconomic characteristics of the community. Areas with higher poverty rates may have limited access to personal vehicles and rely more heavily on public transportation or ride-sharing services.

The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic tool, subject to change as transportation infrastructure and healthcare services evolve. Regular updates are necessary to ensure its accuracy and relevance. It serves as a vital resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, fostering informed decision-making and promoting equitable access to healthcare for all. It is a crucial consideration for those moving to McKees Rocks.