15949, Robinson, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15949, Robinson, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.77 percent of residents in 15949 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 13.20 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15949

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as prostate cancer, is multifaceted. It involves not only the expertise of medical professionals but also the ease with which a patient can access that care. This write-up focuses on the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 15949 (Robinson, Pennsylvania), evaluating its impact on healthcare access for individuals facing prostate cancer. Our goal is to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" – a practical assessment of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure.

Robinson Township, a suburban community, offers a blend of residential areas and commercial hubs. Its location, roughly 60 miles east of Pittsburgh, dictates its healthcare access, primarily through automobile transportation. This reliance on personal vehicles presents both advantages and disadvantages for those seeking prostate cancer care. The score will consider drive times to key medical facilities, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of the transportation challenges.

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Robinson are Interstate 376 (the Parkway West), the primary east-west route, and US Route 22, another major thoroughfare. These highways provide relatively direct access to hospitals and specialized cancer centers in the Pittsburgh area. Drive times, however, can be significantly affected by traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.

For residents of 15949, the closest major healthcare facilities include UPMC Presbyterian Hospital and UPMC Shadyside Hospital in Pittsburgh. The drive to these facilities via I-376 typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Another option is Allegheny General Hospital, also in Pittsburgh, which is also accessible via I-376, with similar drive times. These drive times are crucial, as timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up appointments is paramount in managing prostate cancer.

Public transportation options in the area are limited, which presents a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) provides bus service to Robinson, but the frequency and coverage are less extensive than in the city center. Route 28, for instance, serves the area, but its routes and schedules may not align well with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with mobility issues, a consideration that will be factored into our score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive or without access to public transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary depending on demand and the time of day. The reliability of ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is also a factor to consider. The potential for surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could pose a financial burden for patients.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another crucial element in our assessment. These services, such as medical transport companies, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. The availability, cost, and insurance coverage of these services will be considered in our scoring.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" will evaluate several key factors. First, the drive times to major hospitals and cancer centers in Pittsburgh, considering both average travel times and potential delays due to traffic. Second, the accessibility and frequency of public transportation options, including the availability of ADA-accessible buses and the suitability of routes for medical appointments. Third, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, considering potential surge pricing and reliability. Fourth, the availability, cost, and insurance coverage of medical transport services.

The score will also consider the overall accessibility of the healthcare system, including the availability of parking at medical facilities, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the availability of patient support services. The goal is to provide a practical assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities faced by individuals in 15949 seeking prostate cancer care.

For someone considering moving to Robinson, the transportation landscape is a significant factor to consider. While the area offers a relatively safe and pleasant environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options could pose challenges for those requiring frequent medical appointments. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess the availability of alternative options, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" will be a dynamic measure, reflecting the changing transportation landscape and the evolving needs of patients. It will serve as a valuable tool for individuals, healthcare providers, and community planners, highlighting the importance of accessible and reliable transportation in ensuring timely and effective prostate cancer care. The score will be updated periodically to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, service availability, and healthcare access.

The final score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to healthcare. The score will also include specific recommendations for improving transportation access, such as advocating for increased public transportation service, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting medical transport services. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals in 15949 with the information they need to navigate the transportation challenges associated with prostate cancer care and ensure they receive the timely and effective treatment they deserve. The assessment will consider the impact of the highways and roads and the impact of the public transportation.