15148, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15148, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.20 percent of residents in 15148 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Forbes Hospital with a distance of 3.57 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Wilmerding, PA (ZIP Code 15148)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access within and around Wilmerding, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15148), a small borough in Allegheny County. This score considers the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes like ride-sharing and medical transport. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents, particularly those considering **moving to Wilmerding**, and for assessing the overall health and well-being of the community. This write-up aims to paint a comprehensive picture, evaluating the accessibility of essential healthcare services.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment based on the availability and efficiency of **transportation** options. It acknowledges that healthcare access is a multifaceted issue, influenced by factors beyond just proximity to hospitals and clinics. The analysis considers the practical realities of navigating the local **transportation** landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Wilmerding's location, nestled in a valley, significantly impacts access to healthcare. The primary roadways serving the borough are the Lincoln Highway (US-30) and the Parkway East (I-376). The Lincoln Highway, historically a vital commercial route, offers direct access to some local medical offices but can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. The Parkway East provides faster access to the larger medical centers located in Pittsburgh, but it is also prone to congestion and potential delays due to accidents or construction.

Driving times to healthcare facilities vary considerably. UPMC McKeesport, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions on US-30 or via the Parkway East. UPMC East in Monroeville is a similar distance, potentially slightly faster via the Parkway East. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities in nearby communities like North Versailles and Turtle Creek are generally accessible within 10-15 minutes. However, specialized care, such as those offered at UPMC Presbyterian or Allegheny General Hospital in downtown Pittsburgh, can necessitate a 30-45 minute drive, often influenced by traffic on I-376.

The condition of the roads, including potholes and seasonal weather conditions, further influences drive times and overall safety. Winter weather, in particular, can significantly impact travel, potentially leading to delays and increasing the risk of accidents. Residents, especially those without reliable personal vehicles, must factor these variables into their healthcare access plans.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transit services to Wilmerding. The primary bus routes serving the area are the 61C and 67. The 61C, which runs along the Parkway East, offers a direct connection to downtown Pittsburgh, including major hospitals like UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Mercy. The 67 route provides access to communities to the east, including Monroeville and various medical facilities.

Accessibility on PAT buses is a critical consideration. All PAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, adhering to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Waiting times can be significant, and the total travel time to medical appointments using public transit can be considerably longer than driving, sometimes exceeding an hour to reach downtown Pittsburgh.

The reliance on public transit can also be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring multiple transfers. Furthermore, the availability of accessible stops and shelters in Wilmerding is a factor, as the borough has a mix of older infrastructure.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Wilmerding. They offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments or longer distances. Availability can also be a concern during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by companies like MedExpress or American Medical Response (AMR), cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, they are typically reserved for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those with specific medical conditions. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit and may require pre-booking.

**Overall Assessment and Considerations for Moving to Wilmerding:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Wilmerding is moderate. While the borough benefits from its proximity to major medical centers and the availability of public transit, several factors impact healthcare access. Drive times can be significant, particularly to specialized care facilities. Public transit, while ADA-compliant, is limited by frequency and travel times. Ride-sharing provides a viable alternative, but cost and availability are considerations.

For individuals **moving to Wilmerding**, a careful assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. Those requiring frequent appointments or specialized care should consider the travel times and available **transportation** options. Individuals with mobility limitations should prioritize the accessibility of both public transit and ride-sharing services.

The borough's location, while convenient for some, presents challenges for others. Planning for healthcare access should be an integral part of any relocation decision. The availability of diverse **transportation** options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, is a critical factor in ensuring the overall health and well-being of the community. The "Overall Health Score" highlights the need for residents to understand the available resources and plan accordingly to ensure timely and convenient access to essential healthcare services.