20736, Owings, Maryland Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 20736, Owings, Maryland is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.12 percent of residents in 20736 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calverthealth Medical Center with a distance of 9.40 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 20736

The air hangs heavy with anticipation, a silent promise of change for those contemplating a move to Owings, Maryland, specifically ZIP Code 20736. This assessment, crafted for individuals managing asthma, delves into the intricate web of transportation options that directly impact healthcare access. The ability to reach medical appointments swiftly and reliably is paramount, and this analysis will illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of the available pathways, offering a nuanced "Asthma Score" to guide informed decisions.

The cornerstone of transportation in 20736 is the personal vehicle. Driving to healthcare facilities is often the most direct route, but it is heavily influenced by traffic patterns and distance. The primary arteries are Maryland Route 2 (Solomons Island Road) and Maryland Route 4 (Stephanie Roper Highway). These roadways, while essential, can experience significant congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. A typical drive to a major healthcare provider like the University of Maryland Calvert Health Medical Center in Prince Frederick, approximately 15 miles south, could take anywhere from 20 minutes in off-peak times to upwards of 45 minutes during rush hour. The drive north to the nearest hospitals in Annapolis, such as Anne Arundel Medical Center, will involve travel on Route 2, and depending on traffic, can be a significant time commitment.

The secondary roads, such as Plum Point Road and Southern Maryland Boulevard, offer alternative routes, but these can add considerable mileage and time to the journey, especially when navigating multiple turns and traffic signals. The condition of these roads, with potential potholes and uneven surfaces, also impacts the ride quality, which could be a factor for individuals with respiratory sensitivities.

Public transportation, while present, presents a more complex picture. The Calvert County Transit system offers limited bus routes within the county, but these are primarily designed for local trips and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Route 200, for example, travels along Route 2, but frequency and coverage are limited, making it less than ideal for time-sensitive medical appointments. The closest connection to the Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metro system is a considerable distance away, adding a layer of complexity to the commute.

ADA accessibility on public transit is a crucial consideration. Calvert County Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of these features and the reliability of the service should be verified before relying on public transit for healthcare access. The extended travel times and potential for delays can be particularly challenging for individuals with asthma who may experience exacerbations during periods of stress or exposure to environmental triggers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative to public transportation. These services are readily available in 20736, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers can vary depending on the time of day and demand, potentially leading to delays.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services provide trained medical personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to handle medical emergencies. While these services are designed for urgent situations, they are not always readily available for routine appointments. The cost of medical transportation can also be substantial.

The environmental factors of 20736 also influence the "Asthma Score." The area is characterized by a mix of rural and suburban landscapes, with potential exposure to allergens such as pollen and mold. Proximity to agricultural areas may introduce seasonal allergens. The presence of wood-burning fireplaces in some homes could contribute to indoor air pollution.

The "Asthma Score" for 20736 reflects the complex interplay of transportation options and environmental factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion on major roadways, presents a moderate challenge. Public transportation, while available, has limitations in terms of coverage and frequency. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but at a potentially higher cost. Medical transportation services are available but are primarily designed for emergencies. The environmental factors, including potential exposure to allergens, further complicate the picture.

For individuals with well-managed asthma, the availability of multiple transportation options, including ride-sharing and personal vehicles, suggests a manageable score. However, for individuals with more severe asthma or those with limited access to personal vehicles, the score may be lower, emphasizing the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation alternatives.

Before moving to Owings, individuals with asthma should thoroughly research the specific healthcare facilities they intend to use, including the availability of specialized asthma care and the ease of access via different transportation modes. They should also familiarize themselves with the local environmental conditions and potential triggers.

The decision to move to a new location is a significant one, especially for those managing chronic health conditions. This "Asthma Score" write-up is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape in 20736, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being. The ability to reach healthcare appointments reliably and efficiently is a cornerstone of effective asthma management, and careful planning is essential to ensure a smooth transition and a healthy future in Owings.