15110, Duquesne, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15110, Duquesne, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.83 percent of residents in 15110 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 1.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15110 (Duquesne, PA)

This report analyzes the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 15110, focusing on the critical factor of healthcare access. We will delve into the complexities of transportation options, from personal vehicles and public transit to ride-sharing services, painting a comprehensive picture of the ease – or difficulty – with which residents can reach essential medical care. The analysis considers drive times, accessibility features, and the availability of alternative transportation modes, all crucial elements in determining the overall health score.

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. When residents face significant barriers in reaching doctors, specialists, or emergency services, their health outcomes suffer. This report aims to provide a clear understanding of these barriers for those living in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, and to inform potential residents considering moving to the area. This understanding is vital to promoting community well-being and supporting informed decisions regarding healthcare needs.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For residents of 15110, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. Reaching major healthcare facilities often necessitates navigating a network of highways and local roads. UPMC McKeesport Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, is approximately a 10-15 minute drive via **Route 837** and **Lysle Boulevard**. This route, while relatively short, can experience congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. The condition of these roads, including potholes and the need for repairs, can impact travel times and vehicle maintenance costs, indirectly affecting healthcare access.

Traveling to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Oakland, a more specialized facility, presents a greater challenge. The journey, primarily via **Interstate 376 (Parkway East)**, can take anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The Parkway East is notorious for its rush-hour bottlenecks, especially around the Squirrel Hill Tunnel. This extended travel time can be a significant stressor, particularly for those requiring urgent care or regular appointments. The availability of parking at the hospital also contributes to the overall time commitment.

Other healthcare facilities, such as Allegheny General Hospital on the North Side, require similar travel times and often necessitate navigating **Interstate 279 (Parkway North)**. The variability in drive times, influenced by traffic and road conditions, adds a layer of uncertainty to healthcare access, potentially delaying appointments or emergency responses.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation services to Duquesne, offering a vital alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve the area, offering connections to major hospitals and medical centers. Route 59, for example, provides direct service to downtown Pittsburgh, where connections to other routes can facilitate access to various healthcare facilities.

However, the reliability and convenience of public transit are crucial factors. Route 59, while providing a valuable service, may have limited frequency, especially during evenings and weekends. This can significantly impact healthcare access for those without access to personal vehicles. The availability of accessible features on buses, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, is essential for individuals with disabilities. PAT strives to maintain ADA compliance, but the availability of accessible vehicles on every route and at all times can be a challenge.

The route numbers that provide direct access to healthcare are critical to understanding the health score of the area. The frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours, is a major factor. The availability of real-time tracking and information about delays is also crucial for patients trying to reach medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. These services can be particularly beneficial for those who cannot drive or do not have access to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for low-income residents or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer specialized support. Companies such as Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. However, availability and eligibility requirements can vary, and advance booking is often necessary.

The reliability and cost-effectiveness of these services are essential for determining the overall health score. The availability of specialized vehicles, such as those equipped for wheelchair users, is a crucial factor. The ability of these services to coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure timely arrival and departure is also a significant consideration.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for residents of 15110, regarding healthcare access, is moderately impacted by transportation challenges. While UPMC McKeesport Hospital is relatively accessible, reaching more specialized facilities requires longer travel times, often compounded by traffic congestion. Public transit offers a valuable alternative, but frequency and accessibility limitations exist. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide additional options, but their cost and availability may pose barriers for some residents.

The ease of moving to Duquesne is impacted by these transportation issues. The availability of healthcare facilities is not the only consideration when determining a health score, but the ability to access those facilities is. The overall health score is therefore influenced by the need to navigate the transportation infrastructure.

The community's health is intricately linked to the efficiency and affordability of its transportation network. Addressing these transportation challenges through infrastructure improvements, expanded public transit services, and subsidized ride-sharing programs can significantly improve healthcare access and, consequently, the overall health score for residents of 15110. The health of the community is dependent on the healthcare access, which is dependent on transportation.