15122, West Mifflin, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15122, West Mifflin, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.34 percent of residents in 15122 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 2.83 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15122

Understanding the ease of access to healthcare is paramount when considering a move to a new area. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 15122 (West Mifflin, Pennsylvania), focusing on the transportation options available to reach essential medical services. This analysis considers factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility.

West Mifflin, nestled in the Monongahela Valley, presents a unique transportation landscape. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles, but public transit and ride-sharing services offer viable alternatives. The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance significantly impacts the overall health score. This assessment aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking healthcare in this community.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

The primary mode of transportation in West Mifflin is the personal vehicle. Residents benefit from the proximity to major roadways, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact drive times. Several hospitals and medical centers serve the area, but their accessibility varies depending on location and the specific route taken.

Accessing UPMC McKeesport Hospital, a significant healthcare provider, often involves navigating roadways. Residents may utilize the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-376)**, the **Interstate 376 (Parkway East)**, and the **Route 837** corridor. The time to reach the hospital from various points within 15122 can range from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic flow and the specific origin point. Rush hour, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, significantly extends travel times.

Another option is the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Jefferson Hospital, located in nearby Jefferson Hills. Reaching this facility involves using **Route 51** or **Route 885**. Travel times to Jefferson Hospital are comparable to those for UPMC McKeesport, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, influenced by traffic conditions. The condition of the roadways themselves can also impact travel times. Potholes and construction can slow down traffic.

**Public Transportation Options:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation services to West Mifflin. The primary bus routes serving the area include the **51** (Carrick-Brentwood-Route 51), the **53** (Brownsville Road), and the **61C** (McKeesport-Homestead). These routes connect West Mifflin to downtown Pittsburgh and other surrounding communities, offering access to a wider range of healthcare facilities.

Public transit offers a cost-effective alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or seeking to avoid traffic. However, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor. The accessibility of bus stops and vehicles is also crucial. PAT strives to provide accessible services, including ramps and designated seating for passengers with disabilities.

The **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** compliance of PAT buses ensures that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize public transportation. However, the availability of accessible routes and the distance to bus stops from residential areas can still pose challenges for some residents. The overall convenience of public transit is also affected by the need to transfer between routes to reach specific healthcare destinations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in West Mifflin, offering a convenient alternative to driving or taking the bus. These services can be particularly beneficial for those needing immediate transportation or facing mobility limitations. Ride-sharing provides door-to-door service, eliminating the need to walk to bus stops or navigate parking lots.

However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day, potentially making it less affordable than public transit for frequent healthcare appointments. Availability can also vary, especially during peak hours or in areas with lower population density.

Medical transport services, such as **MedRide** and **CareRide**, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist passengers. Medical transport is particularly valuable for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments or who have physical limitations that make other transportation options difficult.

Medical transport services typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing or public transit. The availability of these services can also be limited, particularly for urgent or last-minute appointments.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 15122 is influenced by a combination of factors. While driving offers the most direct access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion and parking challenges can be significant drawbacks. Public transit provides an affordable alternative but may involve longer travel times and limited service frequency. Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be costly, and medical transport caters to specific needs but requires advance planning.

The proximity of major hospitals like UPMC McKeesport and AHN Jefferson Hospital is a positive factor. However, the availability of specialized medical services within the immediate area may be limited, necessitating travel to other locations within the Pittsburgh metropolitan area.

When considering a move to West Mifflin, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation preferences. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should research the accessibility of bus routes and the availability of medical transport services. Individuals with personal vehicles should factor in traffic patterns and parking availability when planning healthcare appointments.

The overall health score for 15122 is moderate. While access to healthcare is available, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services suggest that healthcare access could be improved. The ease of moving to West Mifflin depends on the individual's needs and priorities. Further investment in public transportation infrastructure and the expansion of medical transport services could significantly enhance the healthcare accessibility for residents of this community.