15104, Braddock, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15104, Braddock, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.12 percent of residents in 15104 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 3.81 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15104 (Braddock, PA)

This analysis assesses the ease of accessing healthcare for residents of ZIP Code 15104 (Braddock, Pennsylvania), considering various modes of transportation. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the combined accessibility, efficiency, and potential barriers encountered when seeking medical attention. This assessment is crucial for individuals considering moving to Braddock, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain their health and well-being.

The primary factor influencing the health score is the distance and time required to reach healthcare facilities. Braddock, a borough in Allegheny County, enjoys proximity to Pittsburgh, but the specifics of reaching medical providers are critical. The analysis will examine the availability of various transportation options, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For those who drive, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Braddock are the **I-376 (Parkway East)** and **PA-8 (Butler Street)**. Depending on the destination, the **I-376** offers a more direct route, particularly for facilities located in downtown Pittsburgh or Oakland, the city's medical hub. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially adding 15-30 minutes to the commute.

The **PA-8** offers an alternative, often leading to facilities located in the eastern suburbs. This route might be preferable for those seeking specialists or primary care physicians located in areas like Shadyside or Bloomfield. However, this road is known for its narrow lanes and traffic lights, which can slow down travel.

Drive times vary significantly based on the destination and time of day. A trip to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Oakland, for example, could take anywhere from 15 minutes (off-peak) to 45 minutes (rush hour) via **I-376**. A visit to a clinic in Monroeville might take 20-35 minutes via **PA-8** or **I-376** depending on traffic.

**Public Transportation Options:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation services in Braddock. Several bus routes serve the area, offering a more affordable option for those without personal vehicles. The primary routes serving Braddock include the **61A, 61B, 61C, and 61D**, which connect to downtown Pittsburgh and Oakland. These routes offer connections to major hospitals and medical centers.

However, the frequency of these buses can be a limiting factor, especially during evenings and weekends. Waiting times can be significant, potentially extending the overall commute time. Furthermore, the physical accessibility of public transportation is a concern for individuals with disabilities. While PAT strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating transfer points can vary.

The **61A** route, for instance, provides service to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, but the journey can take up to an hour or more, including potential transfer times. The **61B** route offers access to UPMC Shadyside, with similar travel times.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Braddock, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. They provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate bus routes or parking challenges. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by medical transport companies, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide assistance with mobility and offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, they can be expensive and require advance booking. The availability of these services in Braddock and the surrounding areas should be investigated.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access is not solely about transportation. It also encompasses factors like the availability of medical providers, insurance coverage, and the cost of care. Braddock, like many communities, faces challenges in these areas. While several hospitals and clinics are accessible, the availability of primary care physicians and specialists within the immediate vicinity can be limited.

Residents must consider the potential need to travel further for specialized care. The insurance landscape also plays a significant role, with the acceptance of various insurance plans varying among providers. The cost of care, including co-pays, deductibles, and prescription medications, can be a significant financial burden, impacting the overall health score.

**Assessment and Recommendations:**

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 15104 reflects a mixed picture. While residents have several transportation options, each presents its own set of challenges. Driving offers flexibility but is subject to traffic congestion. Public transportation is affordable but can be time-consuming and potentially inaccessible. Ride-sharing provides convenience but can be costly.

For individuals considering moving to Braddock, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation preferences is crucial. Those who rely on public transportation should familiarize themselves with the bus routes and schedules. Those who drive should account for potential traffic delays.

The healthcare access is further complicated by the availability of medical providers and insurance coverage. Researching the availability of physicians and specialists in the area is essential. Understanding the insurance landscape and the costs of care is also vital.

**Overall Health Score:**

Considering all factors, the Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in Braddock, PA (ZIP Code 15104) is moderate. The availability of transportation options is good, but the efficiency and cost of these options can be a barrier. The availability of healthcare providers and insurance coverage further influences the score.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Advocate for improved public transportation:** Increased frequency and extended service hours on bus routes, especially during evenings and weekends, would significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Promote ride-sharing programs:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments.
* **Support medical transportation services:** Ensure the availability and affordability of medical transportation services for those with mobility limitations.
* **Encourage healthcare provider expansion:** Advocate for attracting more primary care physicians and specialists to the Braddock area.
* **Promote healthcare literacy:** Educate residents about available healthcare resources, insurance options, and the importance of preventative care.

By addressing these challenges and implementing the recommendations, the Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in Braddock can be improved, ensuring that residents have access to the care they need to maintain their health and well-being.