15064, Morgan, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15064, Morgan, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

92.72 percent of residents in 15064 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Clair Hospital with a distance of 4.59 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 15064

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a condition as serious as prostate cancer, is a complex equation. It involves not just the quality of medical care but also the ease and accessibility of getting there. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 15064, exploring the practicalities of accessing prostate cancer treatment, offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" to assess the challenges and opportunities for residents, and providing insights for those considering a move to Morgan, Pennsylvania.

Our focus is on the practical realities of transportation. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for medical transportation all play crucial roles in a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. This analysis considers the specific needs of individuals facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, factoring in the frequency of appointments, the potential for fatigue, and the importance of minimizing stress during a challenging time.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a formal medical assessment but rather a qualitative evaluation of the transportation environment. It considers factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of specialized medical transport services. The higher the score, the more accessible and convenient the transportation options are, potentially leading to a more positive healthcare experience.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

ZIP Code 15064, encompassing the borough of Morgan, Pennsylvania, is primarily served by roadways. Access to healthcare facilities often involves navigating these roads. The primary artery for travel is **Interstate 79 (I-79)**, which offers relatively quick access to major medical centers. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Heading north on I-79, the drive to UPMC Passavant in McCandless Township, a potential center for urological care, takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Southbound, the drive to the UPMC Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh, a well-known cancer center, is roughly 45-60 minutes, again subject to traffic fluctuations.

Local roads like **Morgan Road**, **Cecil-Henderson Road**, and **Weirich Avenue** provide access to the I-79 on-ramps and connect residents to nearby communities. These roads, while generally less congested than the interstate, can still experience delays, particularly during rush hour or due to accidents. The condition of these local roads, including potholes and inadequate lighting, can also contribute to travel time and safety concerns, especially for those with mobility issues.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options within ZIP Code 15064 are severely limited. The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides bus service, but the routes serving Morgan are infrequent and may not directly connect to major medical facilities. The availability of accessible buses, equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities, is a critical factor.

The primary bus route serving the area is likely to be the **28X Airport Flyer**, which offers limited service and may require transfers to reach hospitals. Travel times using public transit are significantly longer than driving, potentially adding an hour or more to the commute. This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue or other side effects.

The lack of readily available public transit options significantly impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score" for residents of 15064. Dependence on public transit for frequent medical appointments can be incredibly stressful and time-consuming.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a more convenient alternative to public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by **CareRide** or **Medicaid-approved transportation providers**, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, availability may be limited, and advance booking is usually required. The "Prostate Cancer Score" benefits from the presence of medical transportation, but the reliability and cost of these services must be considered.

**Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP Code 15064:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 15064 is **moderate**. While I-79 offers relatively quick access to major medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic delays pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides some relief, but the cost and reliability of these services must be considered.

**Moving to Morgan: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For individuals considering a move to Morgan, Pennsylvania, the transportation landscape is a critical factor to consider, especially for those with existing or potential healthcare needs. The availability of a personal vehicle is almost essential for accessing timely medical care. The proximity to I-79 is a significant advantage, but the potential for traffic delays should be factored into daily routines.

Individuals with mobility limitations or those who prefer not to drive should carefully assess the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The limited public transit options make it difficult to rely on public transportation.

Before making a decision, prospective residents should research the specific healthcare facilities they intend to use and estimate the travel times and costs associated with accessing those facilities. They should also investigate the availability of support services, such as home healthcare and in-home therapy, to determine whether they can be served in the home.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare system, particularly when facing a diagnosis like prostate cancer, requires careful consideration of transportation options. In ZIP Code 15064, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services create a moderate transportation environment. While the proximity to I-79 offers some advantages, residents must carefully plan their commutes, consider the costs and reliability of alternative transportation options, and be prepared for potential delays. For those considering a move to Morgan, a thorough assessment of these transportation factors is essential to ensure access to timely and effective healthcare.