15090, Wexford, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15090, Wexford, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.83 percent of residents in 15090 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahn Wexford Hospital with a distance of 1.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Wexford, PA (ZIP Code 15090)

Understanding the ease with which residents of Wexford, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15090) can access healthcare is crucial for evaluating their overall health score. This analysis delves into the multifaceted aspects of transportation, healthcare access, and the implications for those considering moving to Wexford. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture, considering both convenience and potential challenges.

Wexford, a vibrant suburb north of Pittsburgh, offers a desirable lifestyle, but healthcare accessibility is a critical factor. Evaluating the available transportation options becomes paramount in determining the community's health score. The efficiency and availability of these services directly impact residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

**Driving Times and Road Networks**

For many Wexford residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The convenience of driving is a significant advantage, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact healthcare access. The major arteries serving the area include Interstate 79 (I-79), a north-south corridor, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), which provides east-west access.

Accessing healthcare facilities in the North Hills area, such as UPMC Passavant Hospital in McCandless Township, is generally straightforward. The drive time from Wexford to UPMC Passavant is typically around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Other facilities, like Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Wexford Hospital, are even closer, often reachable within a 5-10 minute drive.

However, accessing hospitals in downtown Pittsburgh, such as UPMC Presbyterian or UPMC Mercy, can be a more significant undertaking. The commute involves navigating I-79 South or Route 19 (Perry Highway), which can become heavily congested during rush hour. Expect travel times to range from 30-45 minutes, or longer, depending on traffic conditions.

**Public Transit Options**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation services to Wexford, though the options are somewhat limited compared to the city center. Several bus routes serve the area, connecting residents to key destinations. Route 13 (Wexford) is a primary route, offering service along Perry Highway and connecting to the North Hills transit hub. Route 14 (Ohio Valley) also provides service, albeit with less frequency.

While the PAT strives to provide accessible transportation, it's essential to consider the limitations. Many routes, including those serving Wexford, may have limited service during evenings and weekends. Individuals with mobility impairments should specifically check for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance on the buses, including features like ramps and designated seating.

The availability of public transportation plays a crucial role in healthcare access, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or cannot drive. However, the limited frequency and potential travel times can present challenges, especially for urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an increasingly popular alternative for transportation. These services are readily available in Wexford and provide a convenient way to access healthcare facilities. Ride-sharing offers door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate public transit or rely on family members for rides.

The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the distance, time of day, and demand. While convenient, it's important to factor in these costs when assessing the overall affordability of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like MedRide and CareRide offer specialized transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist passengers. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport.

Medical transportation services typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing. However, they provide a critical service, ensuring that individuals can access necessary medical care, even with significant mobility challenges.

**Implications for Healthcare Access**

The combination of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options shapes the overall healthcare access landscape in Wexford. Residents with personal vehicles generally enjoy the greatest convenience, but traffic congestion can impact travel times. Public transit offers a more affordable option, but its limitations in frequency and coverage can pose challenges. Ride-sharing provides a flexible alternative, while medical transportation services cater to specific needs.

The availability of various transportation options contributes to a higher overall health score. However, factors like traffic, the frequency of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can impact the score.

**Considerations for Moving to Wexford**

For those considering moving to Wexford, evaluating healthcare access is a crucial aspect of the decision-making process. The proximity of healthcare facilities is a significant advantage. The relatively short drive times to hospitals and medical centers enhance the convenience of accessing medical care.

However, potential residents should also consider their transportation needs. Those who rely on public transit should research the routes and schedules to ensure they meet their needs. Individuals with mobility limitations should investigate the availability of accessible transportation options.

The overall health score of Wexford reflects the community's ability to provide accessible healthcare. While Wexford offers several advantages, potential residents should carefully consider their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements when making their decision. The availability of diverse transportation options enhances the community's health score, but it's crucial to evaluate the specific implications for each individual.