15132, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15132, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.60 percent of residents in 15132 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 0.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in McKeesport, PA (ZIP Code 15132)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for residents of McKeesport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15132), focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access through transportation. The score considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to determine the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare facilities. This information is particularly valuable for individuals considering **moving to McKeesport** and evaluating the community's infrastructure for their health needs.

The health score is a composite of several factors: drive times, public transportation availability and accessibility, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. Each category is weighted based on its perceived impact on healthcare access, with drive times receiving the highest weighting due to their direct influence on the immediacy of care. The availability of diverse transportation options, especially for individuals with disabilities or limited mobility, is also a significant factor.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary determinant of the health score is the ease of access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles. McKeesport's location, approximately 15 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, presents a unique challenge. While the city itself boasts some local medical services, residents often need to travel to larger hospitals and specialized clinics in the Pittsburgh area. The most direct route to downtown Pittsburgh involves navigating the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-376)**, which can be subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

The **Mon–Fayette Expressway (PA-43)** offers an alternative route, though it may involve tolls. The accessibility of these major highways is critical for residents seeking timely medical attention. Local roads, such as **Fifth Avenue** and **Walnut Street**, provide access to local healthcare providers and connect to the major arteries. The condition of these roads, including potholes and traffic light synchronization, significantly impacts travel times and the overall health score.

Drive times to major healthcare facilities in Pittsburgh, such as UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside, are heavily influenced by traffic conditions. During off-peak hours, the drive can take approximately 20-30 minutes. However, during rush hour, this can easily extend to 45 minutes or longer, potentially delaying critical medical care. The health score reflects this variability, acknowledging the potential for significant delays that can negatively impact healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag**

Public transportation in McKeesport is provided by the Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT). Several bus routes serve the area, including the 59, 61C, 61D, 67, 69, and 71. These routes connect McKeesport to downtown Pittsburgh and other surrounding communities, offering an alternative to driving. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

The **accessibility of public transit** is a crucial factor in the health score. PAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate riders with disabilities, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. However, the walking distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities can be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with mobility limitations. The health score considers the availability of accessible routes and the potential challenges faced by individuals relying on public transit.

The reliability of public transit is also a factor. Delays due to traffic, mechanical issues, or weather conditions can impact healthcare access. The health score considers the potential for these disruptions and their impact on the ability of residents to reach their medical appointments on time. The integration of public transit into the overall **transportation** network is vital for ensuring equitable **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in McKeesport, providing a convenient option for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to rely on fixed bus schedules. However, the availability of drivers can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

The cost of ride-sharing services can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited incomes. The health score considers the affordability of ride-sharing services and their accessibility for all residents. The ability to utilize ride-sharing services is a significant component in the overall **healthcare access** assessment.

Specialized medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available in McKeesport. These services are essential for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have medical conditions that prevent them from driving or using public transit. The availability and responsiveness of these services are critical for ensuring timely access to medical care.

The health score reflects the availability and quality of these specialized services, recognizing their importance in providing healthcare access for individuals with specific needs. The availability of these services is a critical factor for those **moving to McKeesport**.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Based on the analysis of these factors, the overall health score for **healthcare access** in McKeesport (ZIP Code 15132) is moderate. While the availability of transportation options is present, several challenges impact the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare facilities. Drive times to major hospitals in Pittsburgh can be lengthy, particularly during peak hours. Public transit, while accessible, has limitations in terms of frequency and coverage. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative but may be subject to availability and cost constraints.

To improve the health score, several recommendations can be considered. First, infrastructure improvements, such as road repairs and traffic light optimization, can reduce drive times and improve traffic flow. Second, increasing the frequency and coverage of public transit, especially during evenings and weekends, can enhance accessibility for all residents. Third, promoting the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, particularly for individuals with low incomes or disabilities, can improve healthcare access.

Finally, ensuring the availability and responsiveness of medical transport services is critical for individuals with specific needs. These improvements would significantly enhance the overall health score and improve the quality of life for residents of McKeesport, making it a more attractive location for those **moving to McKeesport**. The ongoing evaluation of these factors is crucial for maintaining and improving the community's ability to provide accessible healthcare.