Health Scores Near 20686, Saint Marys City, Maryland
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The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 20686, Saint Marys City, Maryland is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
84.23 percent of residents in 20686 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 13.47 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 20686, Saint Marys City, Maryland
| Asthma Score | 9 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 22 |
| Provider Score | 29 |
| Hospital Score | 59 |
| Travel Score | 7 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 20686 | Saint Marys City | Maryland |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 3.97 |
| 1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 20.79 |
| 2 Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 39.99 |
| 3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 35.24 |
Vehicular Access in 20686, Saint Marys City, Maryland
## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 20686
The decision to relocate, particularly to a new environment, necessitates careful consideration of various factors. For individuals managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 20686 (Saint Marys City, Maryland), focusing on healthcare access, and offering an “Asthma Score” assessment to aid in informed decision-making.
Saint Marys City, a charming locale, presents a unique challenge due to its relative remoteness. While the area offers a tranquil setting, it also demands a proactive approach to navigating healthcare access, especially during an asthma exacerbation. This analysis will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective residents.
**Drive Times and Road Networks:**
The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Saint Marys City are Route 5 (Point Lookout Road) and Route 235 (Three Notch Road). Route 5, a scenic but often congested two-lane road, connects the area to the north, while Route 235 provides access to Lexington Park and California.
Driving to the closest urgent care facilities, located in Lexington Park, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. These facilities, such as MedStar Urgent Care and Patient First, offer immediate care for non-life-threatening asthma symptoms.
For more specialized care, including pulmonologists and asthma specialists, residents often need to travel to larger hospitals. MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown is approximately a 30 to 40-minute drive via Route 5. This hospital offers comprehensive respiratory care, including an emergency room equipped to handle acute asthma attacks.
The drive to larger hospitals in Washington D.C. or Baltimore, which offer a wider range of specialists and advanced treatments, is significantly longer. Expect a drive time of at least 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions on Route 5 and the Capital Beltway (I-495). This extended travel time can pose a challenge during a severe asthma episode.
**Public Transportation Options:**
Public transportation options in Saint Marys County are limited, and this significantly impacts healthcare access. The St. Mary's County Transit System (SMCTS) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve areas within the county.
The SMCTS Route 1, which runs along Route 5, provides a limited service to Lexington Park and Leonardtown, potentially offering a public transportation option to healthcare facilities. However, the infrequent schedule and the potential for long wait times make this option less ideal during an asthma emergency.
ADA accessibility on SMCTS buses is available, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service remain significant drawbacks for those relying on public transit for healthcare access.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Saint Marys City, providing an alternative transportation option. However, availability can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or in the early morning or late evening. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent healthcare appointments.
Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals requiring assistance. Emergency medical services (EMS) are readily accessible, but it is critical to understand that ambulance services are primarily for life-threatening situations.
NEMT services, such as those offered by private companies, can provide transportation to scheduled healthcare appointments. These services often require pre-booking and may have limitations regarding the distance and type of care they can accommodate.
**Asthma Score Assessment:**
Based on the analysis of transportation options, an "Asthma Score" can be assigned to assess the accessibility of healthcare in 20686. The score will consider drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing reliability, and the availability of medical transport services.
* **Drive Time:** The proximity to urgent care facilities (20-30 minutes) and the availability of emergency services at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital (30-40 minutes) are positive aspects. However, the longer travel times to specialized care in larger cities (1.5-2 hours) are a significant concern.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transit options, infrequent schedules, and limited route coverage significantly impact healthcare access.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability of ride-sharing services provides an alternative, but their reliability and cost can be a concern.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability of EMS and NEMT services provides a safety net, but pre-planning and potential limitations are essential considerations.
**Overall Assessment:**
Considering these factors, the "Asthma Score" for healthcare access in 20686 is moderate. While urgent care and emergency services are reasonably accessible, the limitations of public transportation, the potential for unpredictable ride-sharing availability, and the longer travel times to specialized care present challenges for individuals managing asthma.
**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**
Individuals with asthma considering a move to Saint Marys City should carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation requirements. It is crucial to establish a healthcare plan that includes:
* Identifying local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and urgent care facilities.
* Familiarizing themselves with the SMCTS bus routes and schedules.
* Understanding the availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* Contacting NEMT providers for pre-arranged transportation to appointments.
* Developing an emergency plan that includes readily accessible medications, an asthma action plan, and a clear understanding of how to access emergency services.
**Conclusion:**
Moving to Saint Marys City offers a peaceful lifestyle, but navigating healthcare access requires proactive planning. While the area provides access to essential medical services, the transportation limitations necessitate a well-defined healthcare strategy. By carefully considering the transportation landscape and developing a comprehensive healthcare plan, individuals with asthma can successfully manage their condition and thrive in this unique community. The ability to effectively navigate the transportation options available is crucial for ensuring timely and appropriate healthcare access, contributing to a higher quality of life for residents.
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