M3.5 Transportation

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Transportation affects everything. Public health is a complex subject with many parts to it, and transportation is one of them. Having recently moved from LA to SF, I can definitely see huge differences in public transportation between the two cities. SF is known for having great public transportation, and LA is famous for having horrendous traffic and smog. I would say both live up to their name.

As the articles listed state, having means of transportation will not only improve air quality and reduce the amount of air pollution, but it will result in additional health benefits. Walking, biking, and other physical activity are so much better than sitting in a car commuting for an hour. Even if it just a short 10 minute walk to the bus stop, that adds up if it is done every day.

In addition to being beneficial to our health and our environment, access to public transportation is essential for equality. People need adequate access to more places than just work. They need transportation to school, health appointments, groceries, parks, and other places. Many times I would see patients who weren't able to make it to their follow up appointments resulting in them being admitted to the hospital again. It is a difficult issue because they would have no means of transportation, and if public transportation is not an option, then they have no choice. For improving the environment and to improving our health, public transportation is something that should be accessible for everyone.

Comments

  1. Ashley SubramaniFebruary 9, 2018 at 4:31 PM

    Hi Loren,

    Different forms of transportation are way more beneficial than driving in a car. We use cars for convenience but sometimes convenience can be more harmful in the long run than beneficial. It is essential that we keep up with creating better public transportation as many individuals rely on it to get to doctors and other places that are essential to their health.

    ReplyDelete

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