21704, Frederick, Maryland Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 21704, Frederick, Maryland is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.14 percent of residents in 21704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 4.06 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21704)

Choosing a new home involves a myriad of considerations, especially when managing a chronic condition like arthritis. The ease of access to healthcare, a critical component of quality of life, can dramatically impact daily routines. This "Arthritis Score" for Frederick, Maryland's 21704 ZIP code delves into the complexities of **transportation** options for individuals with mobility challenges, focusing on **healthcare access** and providing insights for those **moving to Frederick**.

The 21704 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of the city of Frederick, a vibrant community nestled in the heart of Maryland. Its location, while offering scenic beauty, presents unique challenges regarding **transportation** to medical appointments. The layout, characterized by a blend of historic streets and modern developments, necessitates careful consideration of travel times and accessibility.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For those who prefer the autonomy of driving, navigating Frederick's roadways requires a degree of planning. The primary arteries serving 21704 are US-15, a major north-south route, and I-70, which runs east-west. These highways, while efficient for longer distances, can experience congestion, especially during peak hours.

Reaching Frederick Health Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in the area, from various points within 21704 necessitates assessing these potential delays. From the downtown area, a drive to the hospital, located on Hospital Drive, is typically a short 5-10 minute journey, primarily utilizing Market Street and 7th Street. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 15-20 minutes.

Residents residing in the more suburban areas of 21704, such as those near Urbana Pike, might find themselves relying on more local roads like Rosemont Avenue and Opossumtown Pike to access the hospital. These routes, while offering a more scenic drive, are susceptible to traffic lights and slower speeds, potentially extending the commute to 15-25 minutes.

Specialty clinics and physician offices are dispersed throughout the city. Accessing these facilities requires familiarity with Frederick's road network. For instance, reaching the Orthopaedic Associates of Frederick, located on Thomas Johnson Drive, might involve navigating the busy intersection of US-15 and Thomas Johnson Drive, a potential bottleneck during rush hour.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

Frederick County Transit (FCT) offers public **transportation** within the county, including routes that serve the 21704 ZIP code. However, the system's limitations are crucial for individuals with arthritis to understand. FCT operates a fixed-route bus service, with several routes traversing the city.

Route 80, a key route, serves the downtown area and connects to the hospital. Route 70, another important route, offers access to shopping centers and residential areas within the 21704 ZIP code. The frequency of these routes, however, can be a significant concern, with buses typically running on hourly or less frequent schedules, particularly during off-peak times.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of FCT buses is a positive aspect. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring ease of boarding for individuals with mobility devices. However, the physical demands of navigating the bus, including maneuvering through aisles and finding seating, can be challenging for those with arthritis.

The reliance on fixed routes also presents a significant hurdle. Individuals may need to walk considerable distances to reach a bus stop, adding to the physical strain. Transfers between routes, if required, can further complicate the journey, increasing travel time and the potential for discomfort.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option in Frederick. Their availability, however, is not always guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide another avenue for **healthcare access**. Companies like CareRide and MedStar Mobile Healthcare offer specialized **transportation** services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with boarding and disembarking.

These services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than traditional ride-sharing. However, they offer a higher level of support and are often the most reliable option for individuals with significant mobility limitations. The availability of these services within the 21704 ZIP code is generally good, but it's crucial to confirm coverage and pricing with each provider.

**Accessibility Considerations:**

Beyond the specific **transportation** options, the accessibility of medical facilities themselves is paramount. Frederick Health Hospital is generally considered accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible parking readily available. However, it's always prudent to confirm specific accessibility features, such as the availability of wheelchairs or assistance with navigating the building, when scheduling appointments.

Specialty clinics and physician offices vary in their accessibility. When choosing a healthcare provider, it's essential to inquire about accessibility features, including the availability of accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and accessible examination rooms.

**The Arthritis Score: A Summary:**

Evaluating the **transportation** landscape for individuals with arthritis in the 21704 ZIP code reveals a mixed picture. While the city offers a range of options, each presents unique challenges.

Driving offers the greatest flexibility but is subject to traffic congestion. Public transit, while ADA-accessible, is limited by route frequency and the physical demands of using the service. Ride-sharing provides a convenient alternative but can be unreliable and costly. Medical **transportation** services offer the most comprehensive support but come at a higher price.

For individuals **moving to Frederick** with arthritis, careful consideration of these factors is essential. The ideal location would provide easy access to medical facilities, preferably with minimal reliance on **transportation**. Proximity to bus routes, if public transit is preferred, or convenient access to major roadways, if driving is the choice, should be prioritized.

Ultimately, the "Arthritis Score" for 21704 is not a single number but a complex assessment. It's a reminder that **healthcare access** is not merely about the availability of medical services but also about the ease with which those services can be reached. By understanding the nuances of **transportation** options, individuals with arthritis can make informed decisions, ensuring a higher quality of life in their new Frederick home.