15034, Dravosburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15034, Dravosburg, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.70 percent of residents in 15034 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 2.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Dravosburg, PA (ZIP Code 15034)

Dravosburg, Pennsylvania, a borough nestled in the Monongahela River Valley, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. This analysis focuses on the critical element of healthcare access, specifically evaluating the transportation options available to residents of ZIP code 15034. A comprehensive understanding of commute times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options is crucial for determining the feasibility of accessing necessary medical care, impacting the overall health score for potential and current residents. The ability to reach healthcare facilities efficiently and reliably is a cornerstone of a healthy community.

The primary factor in evaluating healthcare access is the time it takes to reach various medical facilities. Dravosburg’s location, approximately 10 miles south of Pittsburgh, necessitates navigating a network of roads and highways. The primary thoroughfare for residents is **State Route 837**, a vital artery running parallel to the Monongahela River. This route provides direct access to UPMC McKeesport Hospital, a crucial healthcare provider for the region. During peak traffic hours, the drive can extend to 20-30 minutes, a significant consideration for individuals requiring urgent care.

Another critical route is **Pennsylvania Route 51**, which offers access to facilities located further south, including those in Jefferson Hills and Pleasant Hills. This route, while offering alternative options, can also experience heavy congestion, particularly during rush hour. The condition of these roads, including potential potholes and the impact of weather, further influences travel times and the overall reliability of transportation. The terrain itself, with its hilly landscape, can add to the challenges, especially during inclement weather.

Public transportation in Dravosburg, while present, presents limitations. The **Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT)** provides bus service to the area. Several routes, including the **51, 53, and 61C**, offer service to downtown Pittsburgh, where a wider array of healthcare facilities are available. However, these routes often involve transfers and can result in significantly longer travel times, potentially exceeding an hour to reach downtown hospitals. The frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, is another factor that influences accessibility.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical aspect of public transit. PAT strives to provide accessible buses equipped with ramps and designated seating areas. However, the availability of accessible infrastructure at all bus stops and the overall ease of navigating the system with mobility limitations need consideration. This is a crucial factor for the overall health score, as it directly impacts the ability of a significant portion of the population to access healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. The availability of these services in Dravosburg, however, can fluctuate. Ride-share availability is often influenced by demand, which can be lower in suburban areas compared to the city center. This can result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares, especially during peak hours or in the event of an emergency.

Medical transport services are essential for individuals who require specialized transportation due to medical conditions or disabilities. Several companies operate in the Pittsburgh area, offering ambulance services, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, such as **STAT MedEvac**, **Medic Rescue**, and **AMR (American Medical Response)**, are crucial for patients needing immediate care or those who cannot utilize other transportation options. The availability and cost of these services are significant factors in the overall health score, particularly for individuals with chronic illnesses or mobility limitations.

The integration of technology plays a role in improving healthcare access. Telehealth services, for example, offer a means of receiving medical consultations and follow-up care remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for residents of Dravosburg, reducing the need for travel for certain types of appointments. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on factors such as internet access and the availability of compatible devices.

Moving to Dravosburg and considering healthcare access requires a nuanced understanding of the transportation landscape. The proximity to Pittsburgh offers access to a wide range of healthcare facilities, but the reliance on roadways and public transit necessitates careful consideration of travel times and potential delays. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but their cost and availability must be factored in.

The overall health score for Dravosburg, based on healthcare access, is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the borough benefits from its proximity to a major metropolitan area, the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic congestion, and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Dravosburg regarding healthcare access is moderately positive. Residents have access to a range of healthcare facilities, but the transportation options present both opportunities and challenges. Careful planning and consideration of individual needs are crucial for ensuring timely and reliable access to medical care. For potential residents, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential when assessing the suitability of Dravosburg as a place to live and thrive. Future initiatives to improve public transit, enhance road infrastructure, and expand telehealth services would significantly enhance the overall health score and improve healthcare access for all residents.