15085, Trafford, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15085, Trafford, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.62 percent of residents in 15085 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Forbes Hospital with a distance of 2.88 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15085 (Trafford, PA)**

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Trafford, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15085) requires a comprehensive examination of their access to healthcare, with a particular focus on the transportation options available. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, ultimately painting a picture of the ease or difficulty with which residents can reach vital medical services. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a key determinant of health outcomes, and this report aims to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities for those living in Trafford.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, the ability to get to the doctor, hospital, or specialist. For residents of Trafford, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is undoubtedly the automobile. The road network in and around Trafford, however, presents its own set of challenges.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The most direct route to many healthcare providers involves navigating the complex web of roadways. Primary arteries for residents include the Lincoln Highway (US-30), a major east-west thoroughfare, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), providing rapid access to the city and beyond. The Lincoln Highway, while offering direct access, can be subject to heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. The Pennsylvania Turnpike, on the other hand, provides a high-speed option, but it incurs tolls, adding to the cost of healthcare access.

For residents in the northern reaches of Trafford, access to hospitals and specialist offices in the eastern suburbs, such as Forbes Regional Hospital in Monroeville, may involve traveling along Route 48, a more congested route that can experience delays. Similarly, access to facilities in the city of Pittsburgh, such as UPMC Presbyterian or UPMC Shadyside, requires navigating the Parkway East (I-376), a notoriously busy highway. The drive time to these facilities can vary significantly depending on the time of day, traffic conditions, and the specific location within Trafford.

The average drive time to the nearest urgent care facility is approximately 15-20 minutes, while access to a full-service hospital like Forbes Regional Hospital might take 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. Accessing major medical centers in Pittsburgh could easily extend the drive time to 45 minutes or more, particularly during rush hour. This variability highlights the importance of considering traffic patterns when planning medical appointments, and the potential impact on a patient’s overall health and well-being.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in Trafford, while present, are somewhat limited. The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides bus service to the area, but the routes and frequency are not as extensive as in more urbanized areas. The primary bus routes serving Trafford include the 67 (Monroeville), and the 61A (Oakland). These routes offer connections to larger transit hubs, such as the Monroeville Mall, which then provide access to a wider network of bus routes and the "T" light rail system.

The accessibility of public transit is a critical factor for individuals who cannot or choose not to drive. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a positive aspect, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to transportation. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare. Long wait times and limited service hours may necessitate longer travel times and potentially discourage the use of public transit for medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular as a transportation option, and they are available in Trafford. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive themselves. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also be a concern, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like MedTrans and CareRide, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide specialized assistance, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility. While these services can be a valuable resource for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations, they typically come at a higher cost than standard ride-sharing or public transit.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Trafford**

The overall health score for residents of Trafford, considering transportation access to healthcare, is moderate. While the area offers a variety of transportation options, each has its limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the constraints of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the expense of specialized medical transport all contribute to the complexity of healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Trafford, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those who rely on public transit should carefully evaluate the availability and frequency of bus routes to their preferred healthcare providers. Individuals with mobility limitations should investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the ease of driving, and the availability of alternative transportation options should all be considered when making a decision.

Furthermore, the cost of healthcare access, including the cost of transportation, should be factored into the overall financial planning. The potential for unexpected medical needs and the associated transportation costs should also be considered. By carefully assessing these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure their overall well-being.

In conclusion, while Trafford offers a range of transportation options, the overall health score is somewhat diminished by the challenges of accessing healthcare. Residents must navigate a complex landscape of roadways, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options to reach the care they need. Understanding these complexities is critical for residents and prospective residents alike, ensuring that they can make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being in Trafford.