15131, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15131, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.03 percent of residents in 15131 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Mckeesport Hospital with a distance of 2.44 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15131 (McKeesport, PA)**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is crucial, especially when facing a diagnosis like prostate cancer. For residents of McKeesport, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15131), understanding the transportation landscape is paramount in determining the ease with which they can reach essential medical services. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," evaluating the accessibility of prostate cancer-related healthcare within and around this specific area, factoring in various transportation options.

The score considers drive times to key facilities, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is vital for residents considering moving to McKeesport, ensuring they can readily access necessary care. The score is not a definitive measure of healthcare quality, but rather a gauge of the logistical challenges involved in reaching care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

The primary arteries influencing healthcare access in McKeesport are the major highways and local roads. The **Mon–Fayette Expressway (PA-43)**, though a toll road, offers a direct route to Pittsburgh, where many specialized cancer centers are located. From McKeesport, the expressway provides relatively swift access, typically within 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Accessing the expressway from various parts of McKeesport involves navigating local roads. **Fifth Avenue** and **Walnut Street** serve as major thoroughfares, connecting residential areas to the expressway. **Lysle Boulevard** also provides access, but it can experience congestion during peak hours.

**Route 837**, running parallel to the Monongahela River, provides an alternative route, though it is often slower due to traffic lights and local traffic. Drive times to hospitals along this route, such as UPMC McKeesport, can vary from 5-15 minutes depending on the specific origin point within the ZIP code.

**Healthcare Access and Drive Time Considerations**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" heavily weighs drive times to essential healthcare facilities. UPMC McKeesport, the closest hospital, offers urology services and is a primary destination. Drive times to UPMC McKeesport are generally short, typically under 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for initial consultations and routine care.

For more specialized treatment, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to facilities in Pittsburgh. The drive to UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, for instance, could take 25-40 minutes via PA-43, depending on traffic. Similarly, the drive to Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) may take a similar amount of time.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Routes**

The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides public transportation services in McKeesport. Several bus routes serve the area, offering an alternative to driving. The **61C** and **61D** routes provide connections to downtown Pittsburgh, where numerous medical facilities are located. These routes, however, can be time-consuming, with travel times to downtown exceeding an hour, depending on traffic and transfer times.

The **59** route offers service within McKeesport and connects to neighboring communities, providing access to other healthcare facilities. The **53** route also serves the area, providing connections to other parts of the county.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. PAT strives to provide accessible buses and infrastructure, including ramps, lifts, and designated seating. However, the availability of fully accessible routes and the reliability of these services can vary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in McKeesport. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can be especially useful for appointments and follow-up visits. However, availability and pricing can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Pittsburgh area, including **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation Services**. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**Moving to McKeesport: Transportation and Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to McKeesport, the transportation landscape is a critical factor. The proximity to UPMC McKeesport offers convenient access to primary care and urology services. However, access to specialized cancer treatment may require longer travel times, especially when utilizing public transit.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can mitigate some of the challenges associated with transportation. The "Prostate Cancer Score" would be higher for those who can drive or have access to reliable private transportation. Public transit users may face longer travel times, potentially impacting the overall score.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Summary**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 15131 considers several factors. Drive times to UPMC McKeesport are generally favorable, contributing positively to the score. The availability of the Mon-Fayette Expressway provides relatively quick access to Pittsburgh hospitals.

Public transit options, while available, can be time-consuming. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but availability and cost may vary. Medical transport services provide specialized assistance for those with mobility limitations.

Overall, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for McKeesport reflects a mixed picture. Residents have access to local care, but access to specialized treatment may require longer travel times. The score emphasizes the importance of individual circumstances, including mobility, access to a vehicle, and financial resources, in determining the ease of accessing healthcare. The score serves as a valuable tool for residents and those considering moving to the area, enabling them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.