15102, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15102, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.07 percent of residents in 15102 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Clair Hospital with a distance of 3.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15102 (Bethel Park, PA)

Nestled in the South Hills of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, ZIP Code 15102, encompassing Bethel Park, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. This analysis will delve into the transportation options available for residents seeking medical care, ultimately contributing to an “Overall Health Score” that reflects the ease and efficiency of navigating to essential healthcare services. The score will consider drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-share and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to Bethel Park.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the primary transportation arteries. For those driving, the accessibility of healthcare hinges significantly on the efficiency of the road network. The major thoroughfare, **Pennsylvania Route 88**, runs directly through Bethel Park, providing a crucial link to numerous medical facilities. However, this road can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting drive times to appointments. **Interstate 79**, a major north-south artery, lies just west of the area, offering another route to hospitals and specialist offices, though requiring a short drive to access. Similarly, **U.S. Route 19**, a commercial corridor, offers access to various medical services, but its traffic volume can also affect travel times. The ability to efficiently navigate these roads is paramount in determining the overall health score related to transportation.

Drive times, therefore, become a critical metric. A drive to UPMC Mercy Hospital, located downtown, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on Route 88, Interstate 79, and the Parkway West (I-376). UPMC Presbyterian, another major hospital, is slightly further, potentially adding another 10-15 minutes to the commute. Closer to home, St. Clair Hospital in Mt. Lebanon offers a more convenient option, with drive times typically ranging from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location within Bethel Park. The presence of urgent care facilities and primary care physician offices within the community can further reduce drive times for routine medical needs, positively impacting the overall health score.

Public transportation plays a significant role in healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. The **Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAAC)** provides bus service to and from Bethel Park. Several routes, including the **51, 51L, 52, and 53**, offer direct or connecting service to downtown Pittsburgh, where many major hospitals and medical centers are located. The **51** route, in particular, provides frequent service along Route 88, making it a convenient option for many residents.

The PAAC strives to ensure accessibility for all riders. All buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating for individuals with disabilities. This commitment to accessibility is a vital component of the overall health score, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access healthcare services without undue difficulty. The frequency and reliability of these bus routes, however, can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week, impacting the overall health score.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who may not have access to a car or prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments, offering a convenient and potentially faster alternative to public transit, especially during off-peak hours. However, the cost of ride-share services can be a barrier for some individuals, potentially impacting their ability to access healthcare. The availability of these services, and their associated costs, will be considered when determining the overall health score.

Beyond ride-share services, dedicated medical transport providers offer specialized services for individuals with specific medical needs. Companies like **MedExpress Transportation** and **CareRide** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments, enhancing healthcare access. The availability and affordability of these specialized services contribute positively to the overall health score.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 15102 is a complex calculation that considers all these factors. The presence of a robust road network, while subject to congestion, provides a foundation for relatively quick access to a wide range of healthcare facilities. The availability of public transportation, with its ADA features, offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Ride-share services and medical transport providers further enhance accessibility, particularly for those with specific needs.

However, the overall health score is not solely dependent on the availability of transportation options. The proximity of primary care physicians, urgent care facilities, and specialist offices within the community also plays a crucial role. The more readily available these services are, the lower the drive times and the greater the overall ease of access, thus improving the health score. The quality of the healthcare services themselves, the insurance coverage of residents, and the overall health of the community also contribute to a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access.

Considering all these factors, the overall health score for healthcare access in 15102 is moderately high. The combination of a well-connected road network, the availability of public transit with ADA accessibility, and the presence of ride-share and medical transport services provides a reasonable level of access to healthcare. While traffic congestion and the cost of ride-share services can pose challenges, the overall picture is positive, particularly with the availability of local healthcare providers. This makes Bethel Park an attractive location for those considering moving to Bethel Park, seeking reliable access to medical care. The ongoing efforts to improve public transit, address traffic congestion, and expand the availability of local healthcare services will continue to enhance the overall health score and improve the quality of life for residents.