15007, Bakerstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15007, Bakerstown, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.15 percent of residents in 15007 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Passavant with a distance of 6.88 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Bakerstown (ZIP Code 15007)

Bakerstown, Pennsylvania, nestled in the rolling hills north of Pittsburgh, offers a tranquil residential setting. However, the idyllic charm necessitates careful consideration of a crucial aspect of well-being: healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 15007, evaluating the transportation landscape that connects them to vital medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for those **moving to Bakerstown**.

The score is not a single number but a nuanced assessment, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. It reflects the relative ease or difficulty of reaching various healthcare providers, factoring in the efficiency and reliability of available transportation methods. Ultimately, this evaluation aims to empower individuals and families to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs within the context of their chosen community.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

For many Bakerstown residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of **transportation**. The road network plays a pivotal role in determining healthcare access. The primary arteries for accessing medical facilities are the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), Route 8, and Route 228. The drive times to healthcare providers vary significantly depending on the location of the facility and the time of day.

Allegheny Health Network's (AHN) Wexford Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 19 and I-76. UPMC Passavant Hospital in McCandless Township, another significant option, typically requires a 20-25 minute drive, also utilizing Route 19 and the Turnpike. These estimates assume moderate traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend these drive times, potentially adding 15-30 minutes to the commute.

Smaller clinics and specialized practices, located closer to Bakerstown, offer quicker access. However, these facilities may not provide the full spectrum of services available at larger hospitals. Residents must weigh the convenience of shorter commutes against the comprehensive care offered by more distant providers. The condition of the roads, especially during winter weather, can also impact drive times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Bakerstown are, unfortunately, limited. The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides bus service, but the routes serving the area are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to Pittsburgh. Route 13A, for example, offers service to the North Hills, with connections to downtown Pittsburgh, but this route may not directly serve healthcare facilities.

The availability of accessible **transportation** for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) on these routes is essential. PAT strives to provide accessible buses, but the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can pose challenges. The lack of direct routes to hospitals and clinics necessitates transfers, further extending travel times and increasing the complexity of the journey. For those relying on public transit, healthcare access becomes a significant challenge.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability in Bakerstown may be variable, particularly during off-peak hours. Surge pricing, common during periods of high demand, can also make these services expensive. While ride-sharing offers convenience, it is not a guaranteed solution for healthcare access, especially for appointments requiring punctuality.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized option. Companies like MedRide and LifeCare provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often pre-booked and can be a reliable option for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Score**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Bakerstown, ZIP code 15007, is best characterized as "Moderate." While residents have access to major hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a dependency. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing availability is not guaranteed. Medical transport services offer a valuable option, but the cost can be a factor.

The score is not static; it is influenced by individual circumstances. For those who can drive and own a vehicle, healthcare access is generally good. However, for those who cannot drive, rely on public transit, or have mobility limitations, access becomes significantly more challenging. The lack of convenient public transit options and the potential for high ride-sharing costs pose significant hurdles.

**Moving to Bakerstown**: The Considerations

For those considering **moving to Bakerstown**, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should evaluate their individual healthcare needs and consider the **transportation** options available. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the feasibility of accessing healthcare services.

The location of healthcare facilities relative to their residence, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical **transportation** should all be factored into the decision-making process. Understanding these nuances empowers individuals to make informed choices about their healthcare needs and ensures that they can access the care they require. The "Overall Health Score" is a tool to facilitate this process, providing a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Bakerstown. It is a reminder that while Bakerstown offers a desirable residential setting, healthcare access requires careful planning and consideration.