15133, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15133, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.09 percent of residents in 15133 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 1.68 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15133 (McKeesport, PA)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for residents of ZIP Code 15133, focusing specifically on transportation and its impact on healthcare access. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is crucial for maintaining and improving the health of a community. This report examines various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their accessibility within and around McKeesport. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for current residents and those considering moving to McKeesport, highlighting potential challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access.

The overall health score for this area is influenced by the availability, reliability, and affordability of transportation options. Residents' ability to reach doctors' offices, hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers directly impacts their health outcomes. Factors such as drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport are all considered. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced perspective on the transportation landscape and its implications for the health and well-being of the community.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

For residents of 15133 who prefer personal vehicles, navigating the road network is a primary consideration. The primary arteries in and out of McKeesport include **U.S. Route 30**, **Pennsylvania Route 837**, and **Pennsylvania Route 148**. These roads, while providing essential access, can experience congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Traveling to UPMC McKeesport Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically involves a short drive. However, accessing hospitals in Pittsburgh, such as UPMC Presbyterian or Allegheny General Hospital, requires navigating the **Parkway East (Interstate 376)** or the **Parkway West (Interstate 279)**. These routes are known for their traffic, especially during rush hour, which can significantly extend travel times. The condition of the roads, including potential potholes and construction, can also impact drive times and the overall experience.

Drive times to various healthcare facilities will fluctuate based on traffic conditions, time of day, and the specific location within McKeesport. Residents should factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another consideration, particularly in urban areas.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation services to McKeesport. Several bus routes serve the area, offering a more affordable alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. Key routes serving 15133 include the 53, 55, and 61C, which connect McKeesport to downtown Pittsburgh and other surrounding communities.

The accessibility of public transit is a crucial factor in the overall health score. PAT strives to provide accessible services, including buses equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited. This can pose challenges for residents needing to access healthcare outside of typical business hours.

Additionally, the distance between bus stops and healthcare facilities can impact the convenience of public transit. Residents may need to walk a significant distance or rely on connecting services, such as ride-sharing, to complete their journey. The overall reliability of public transit, including potential delays due to traffic or mechanical issues, is also a factor.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option for residents of 15133. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering greater flexibility than public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand in the area.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost of a ride. Despite these limitations, ride-sharing can be a valuable option for those who need transportation to healthcare appointments but do not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive.

Medical transportation services, such as medical transport brands such as MedTrans or First Transit, are specifically designed to transport individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. They can be a crucial resource for individuals who cannot use public transit or ride-sharing services.

The availability and cost of medical transportation services vary depending on the individual's needs and insurance coverage. Residents should research available options and understand the coverage provided by their insurance plans.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The overall health score for residents of 15133, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderately impacted by the available options. While residents have access to various transportation modes, each has its limitations. Drive times can be affected by traffic, public transit service frequency can be limited, and the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier.

To improve the health score and enhance healthcare access, several recommendations are proposed. Investing in public transit, including increasing service frequency, particularly during off-peak hours, and expanding accessibility features, would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for low-income residents or those with mobility limitations could also be explored.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transportation services and assisting residents in understanding their insurance coverage for these services is crucial. Encouraging healthcare providers to offer telehealth appointments or home visits, where appropriate, can also reduce the need for transportation.

For those considering moving to McKeesport, it's essential to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to healthcare. Consider the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation. Understanding the transportation landscape is a critical factor in making an informed decision and ensuring access to quality healthcare.

By addressing these challenges and implementing the recommended strategies, the community can improve the overall health score and create a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all residents of 15133. This will ultimately contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community.