15084, Tarentum, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health 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.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15084 (Tarentum, PA)

This comprehensive analysis assesses the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 15084, encompassing Tarentum, Pennsylvania. We evaluate various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their impact on healthcare access, ultimately providing an “Overall Health Score” reflecting the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical care. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families considering moving to Tarentum, as it directly influences their well-being.

The primary determinant of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical facilities promptly and efficiently. For residents of Tarentum, this hinges heavily on transportation. The geographical layout, nestled along the Allegheny River, and the surrounding infrastructure shape the commute to hospitals, clinics, and specialists. The “Overall Health Score” considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation options, painting a complete picture of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare appointments in Tarentum. The main arteries facilitating access to healthcare facilities are Route 28, the primary north-south corridor, and the Allegheny Valley Expressway. Route 366, a vital east-west route, provides access to local medical offices and connects with the larger highway system.

Drive times to major healthcare providers vary depending on location within 15084 and the destination. Allegheny Valley Hospital, located in Natrona Heights, is a crucial regional medical center. A drive from central Tarentum to the hospital typically takes between 5 and 10 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. During peak hours, particularly during rush hour on Route 28, this commute can extend to 15-20 minutes.

Other significant healthcare destinations include UPMC St. Margaret Hospital in Pittsburgh, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 28, and various specialist offices located throughout the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. Accessing these facilities necessitates navigating the often-congested Route 28, making timely arrival a potential challenge. The condition of roadways, including potholes and construction, can further impact travel times and the stress associated with healthcare commutes.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transit services to Tarentum. While the availability of public transit is a positive factor, its impact on healthcare access is somewhat limited due to the geographical constraints and route coverage.

The primary bus route serving Tarentum is the P1, which provides service to downtown Pittsburgh. While this route offers a connection to various medical facilities in the city, the commute time is significantly longer than driving, often exceeding an hour. The P1 bus does offer ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, making it a viable option for individuals with mobility limitations.

Other bus routes, such as the 1, 91, and 93, offer limited service to nearby communities, potentially providing access to smaller clinics and medical offices. However, these routes may require transfers, further extending travel times. The frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can also be a barrier to accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Tarentum area and offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. Ride-share services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate parking or transfer between buses. However, the cost of ride-share can be a barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs, are also available. These services, such as MedRide and First Transit, offer specialized vehicles and trained drivers to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including helping patients in and out of vehicles. While these services are invaluable for certain populations, they often require prior scheduling and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 15084 considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Shorter drive times to major healthcare providers contribute to a higher score.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility features of public transit routes influence the score.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The presence and affordability of ride-share services are considered.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability and accessibility of medical transportation services are factored in.
* **Traffic Congestion:** The impact of traffic congestion on drive times is evaluated.
* **Road Conditions:** The condition of roadways and its impact on travel times is considered.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices is assessed.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Tarentum:**

Based on the analysis, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 15084 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for extended commute times, particularly during peak hours, are notable considerations. The limited public transit options and the cost of ride-share services can also present challenges for some residents.

Individuals and families considering moving to Tarentum should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should assess the feasibility of using the available services. Those with chronic health conditions or frequent medical appointments should factor in the potential travel times and costs associated with accessing healthcare.

The strategic location of Tarentum, offering a blend of suburban and riverfront living, provides access to a range of healthcare providers. The proximity to Allegheny Valley Hospital is a significant advantage. However, the dependence on Route 28 for accessing larger medical centers in Pittsburgh requires careful planning.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 15084 suggests a reasonable level of accessibility, but with areas for improvement. While residents have access to essential healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for anyone moving to Tarentum, ensuring they can readily access the medical care they need. Further improvements in public transit, coupled with efforts to mitigate traffic congestion, would significantly enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve the well-being of Tarentum residents.