20675, Pomfret, Maryland Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 20675, Pomfret, Maryland is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.35 percent of residents in 20675 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Charles Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.51 miles from the area.

**Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 20675**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing cognitive challenges like Alzheimer's disease, demands a thorough understanding of available transportation options. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 20675, encompassing Pomfret, Maryland, assessing the feasibility of reaching essential medical services. We will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transportation, all crucial elements in determining a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" reflecting the ease and practicality of accessing healthcare in this specific geographic area.

The primary consideration for residents of Pomfret is the reliance on personal vehicles. Driving remains the most direct and often the fastest method for accessing healthcare facilities. The major thoroughfare is US Route 301, a vital artery connecting Pomfret to surrounding towns and cities. Heading north on 301 provides access to Waldorf, a major hub for healthcare services, including the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center. The drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Southbound on Route 301 leads to La Plata, the county seat of Charles County, where additional medical practices and specialists are located. This journey is usually shorter, around 10-15 minutes. The ease of driving, however, can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, potentially increasing drive times and adding to the stress of an individual with Alzheimer's.

Alternative routes, such as Maryland Route 5 (Piney Church Road) and Maryland Route 6 (Port Tobacco Road), offer alternative paths, though they may involve more turns and less direct routes. These roads can be beneficial if traffic on 301 is heavy, providing a degree of flexibility. However, navigating these smaller roads requires careful attention and may be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Public transportation options in this area are limited. The primary provider is the Charles County Transportation System (CCTS). CCTS operates several fixed-route buses, but service frequency and coverage in Pomfret are restricted. The routes that may be relevant, though infrequent, include those serving Waldorf and La Plata. Ridership requires careful planning and coordination, as schedules are often limited, particularly on weekends and evenings.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. CCTS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible transportation depends on the specific route and the time of day. Waiting times at bus stops, navigating transfers, and the potential for crowded conditions can be overwhelming for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. These services are readily available in the area, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. The convenience of ride-sharing can be appealing, but it also comes with its own set of considerations. Individuals with Alzheimer's may require assistance with booking rides, communicating with drivers, and navigating unfamiliar vehicles.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assistance with boarding and disembarking, and sometimes even medical personnel on board. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and CareRide are likely to serve this area, though availability and cost can vary. These services offer a higher level of support but are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

For individuals considering moving to Pomfret, the availability of healthcare access is a critical factor. The "Alzheimer's Score" in this area is moderately challenging. While driving offers the most direct access, the limitations of public transit, the potential complexities of ride-sharing, and the cost of specialized medical transportation must be considered.

The distance to healthcare facilities is relatively short, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create potential barriers. The availability of ride-sharing services provides a viable alternative, but it requires careful planning and assistance. Medical transportation services offer the highest level of support but come at a premium.

The overall score reflects a need for careful planning and the potential for assistance. Families considering moving to Pomfret should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and explore all available options. The ability to drive, or the availability of a caregiver to provide transportation, is crucial. The proximity of healthcare facilities to residents is a positive factor, but the limitations of public transit and the need for careful coordination with ride-sharing or medical transportation services must be carefully considered. The “Alzheimer’s Score” for this area would be improved by increased public transit options, more frequent service, and enhanced accessibility.