The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 21502, Cumberland, Maryland is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
81.76 percent of residents in 21502 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Western Maryland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.02 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 21502, Cumberland, Maryland
Alzheimers Score | 8 |
---|---|
People Score | 3 |
Provider Score | 62 |
Hospital Score | 16 |
Travel Score | 31 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 21502 | Cumberland | Maryland |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 3.12 | 3.12 | 3.97 |
1 Car | 21.15 | 21.15 | 20.79 |
2 Cars | 43.86 | 43.86 | 39.99 |
3 or More Cars | 31.87 | 31.87 | 35.24 |
Vehicular Access in 21502, Cumberland, Maryland
## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21502
The rugged beauty of Cumberland, Maryland, nestled amidst the Allegheny Mountains, holds a certain allure. For those contemplating a move, particularly individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up, an "Alzheimer's Score" analysis, focuses on transportation options available from ZIP code 21502, providing a detailed assessment of commute times and accessibility to essential medical services. This is a vital consideration when evaluating the feasibility of moving to Cumberland.
The primary concern is the ability to reach healthcare providers efficiently and reliably. This is especially critical for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience cognitive decline, making navigating complex transportation systems a significant challenge. This analysis considers various modes of transportation, evaluating their suitability for individuals with cognitive impairments and their caregivers.
**Driving the Landscape: Highways and Roads**
Driving remains a prevalent mode of transportation in Cumberland. From the heart of 21502, access to healthcare often involves navigating the local road network. The primary thoroughfare is **Interstate 68**, a crucial artery connecting Cumberland to larger regional medical centers. Drive times to these facilities are heavily influenced by traffic conditions, weather, and the driver's familiarity with the route.
For instance, the drive to UPMC Western Maryland, the primary hospital in Cumberland, is generally a short trip, typically under ten minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. The route involves navigating local roads, such as **Maryland Avenue** and **Baltimore Avenue**, before merging onto **Williams Street** and eventually reaching the hospital.
Further afield, access to specialized care may necessitate longer drives. The journey to hospitals in Hagerstown, Maryland, or Morgantown, West Virginia, requires travel on I-68, potentially adding an hour or more to the commute, depending on the destination. This increased travel time can be a significant factor, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who require frequent medical appointments.
**Public Transit: Navigating the Routes**
Public transportation, while offering an alternative, presents unique challenges in a rural setting like Cumberland. The primary provider is the **Allegany CountyAllegany County Transit (ACT)**, offering fixed-route bus services. ACT routes are designed to serve the local population, including connections to healthcare facilities.
The ACT system, while offering a degree of accessibility, has limitations. Route schedules may not always align with medical appointment times, and the frequency of service can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. Furthermore, the number of routes and stops is limited.
**ADA Accessibility:** ACT buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the overall accessibility of the system depends on factors such as the availability of accessible bus stops and the ability of passengers to navigate the boarding process.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Expanding the Options**
Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, have expanded their presence in Cumberland, offering another transportation alternative. The availability of these services, however, can be variable, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas.
Ride-share services can be a convenient option for individuals who are unable to drive or who prefer not to navigate public transportation. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.
Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, provide a specialized solution. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assistance with boarding and disembarking, and trained personnel to assist passengers with specific needs.
Several medical transport companies operate in the Cumberland area, including local providers and regional services. These services can be an invaluable resource for individuals with Alzheimer's, offering a safe and reliable means of accessing healthcare. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and advance booking is often required.
**Healthcare Access: The Critical Factor**
The availability of healthcare services within a reasonable distance is a crucial consideration. UPMC Western Maryland serves as the primary healthcare provider in the area, offering a range of medical specialties and services. The proximity of the hospital to 21502 is a significant advantage, ensuring relatively short commute times for routine medical appointments and emergency care.
However, access to specialized care may require travel to larger medical centers in surrounding cities. This can necessitate longer commute times, potentially impacting the frequency and ease of accessing specialized medical services.
**Moving to Cumberland: A Holistic Perspective**
When considering a move to Cumberland, a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access is essential. This analysis highlights the importance of considering the transportation options available from ZIP code 21502. The "Alzheimer's Score" framework emphasizes the need to evaluate drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-share availability, and the availability of medical transport services.
The ability to access healthcare efficiently and reliably is a critical factor for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. This write-up provides a detailed overview of the transportation landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The rugged beauty of Cumberland can be enjoyed, but only with a clear understanding of the transportation options available to access the healthcare services needed.
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