20758, Friendship, Maryland Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 20758, Friendship, Maryland is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.53 percent of residents in 20758 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calverthealth Medical Center with a distance of 11.91 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 20758

The air hangs heavy in the suburbs, a silent threat for those with asthma. In ZIP code 20758, a haven for families **moving to Friendship**, the journey to accessible healthcare becomes a crucial consideration. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of **transportation** options, aiming to quantify the ease of reaching asthma-related healthcare within this community. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture of **healthcare access** realities.

Friendship, Maryland, nestled within the sprawling landscape of Prince George's County, presents a unique challenge. While offering the promise of suburban tranquility, it demands a careful evaluation of its infrastructure. For individuals managing asthma, the speed and reliability of reaching medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care can significantly impact their quality of life. This assessment will provide a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities within this specific ZIP code.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in 20758 are the major roadways that dictate travel times. The Capital Beltway (I-495) forms a critical component, acting as a circumferential route. Driving to the closest hospitals, such as the University of Maryland Capital Region Health in Largo, requires navigating this often-congested highway. Peak hours, especially during morning and evening commutes, can transform a 15-minute drive into a grueling hour-long ordeal.

Another crucial route is the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), which offers a more direct, albeit toll-free, connection to the District of Columbia and surrounding areas. However, this parkway, too, is prone to traffic delays. The drive to specialists in downtown DC or to hospitals like MedStar Washington Hospital Center can be significantly affected by rush hour.

Smaller, but equally important, roads like Central Avenue (MD-214) and Largo Road (MD-202) provide access to local medical facilities and pharmacies. While these roads typically offer quicker travel times than the major highways, they are still susceptible to congestion, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times. The presence of traffic signals and intersections can further prolong travel.

The variability in drive times due to traffic congestion represents a significant hurdle for individuals with asthma. The need for quick access to medication or emergency care necessitates a reliable and predictable **transportation** solution. This is where alternative options become critical.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Buses**

The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), or Metro, provides public transit options within the region. The closest Metro station to 20758 is Largo Town Center station, served by the Blue and Silver lines. However, the reliance on Metro presents its own set of challenges.

The walk from Friendship to the Largo Town Center station can be a significant distance for some, especially those with mobility limitations. This walk itself can be a barrier for individuals with asthma, particularly during periods of extreme heat or cold.

The Metro system offers accessibility features, including elevators and ramps, complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, the reliability of these features and the potential for delays can be a concern. During peak hours, the trains can be overcrowded, exacerbating the risk of exposure to allergens and irritants.

Bus service, provided by the WMATA and the Prince George's County TheBus system, supplements the Metro. TheBus routes, such as the 21 and 25, offer connections to local destinations and the Metro stations. However, bus routes are often less frequent than the Metro, and the travel times are generally longer due to traffic and multiple stops.

For individuals with asthma, the need for a clean and well-ventilated environment is paramount. Public transit systems can present challenges in this regard. The potential for exposure to allergens, pollutants, and crowded conditions necessitates careful planning and consideration.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an on-demand **transportation** alternative. They provide the convenience of door-to-door service, bypassing the need to navigate public transit or drive and park. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services can also be a concern, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. Furthermore, the potential for exposure to allergens or irritants within the vehicles remains a factor.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare and AMR, specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services offer a higher level of care and are specifically designed to accommodate individuals with medical needs. However, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing services and require prior scheduling.

The availability of medical transport services in 20758 is an important consideration. The ability to secure reliable and safe **transportation** for medical appointments and emergencies is crucial for individuals with asthma.

**Assessing the Asthma Score: A Holistic Approach**

The "Asthma Score" for 20758 isn't just about drive times or the availability of public transit. It is a holistic assessment of the entire **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**. Factors to consider include:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The location of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies relative to residential areas.
* **Reliability of Transportation:** The consistency and predictability of travel times, regardless of the chosen mode of **transportation**.
* **Affordability:** The cost of various **transportation** options and their impact on household budgets.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant features and the ease of use for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Air Quality:** The potential for exposure to allergens, pollutants, and other irritants within the **transportation** environment.

**Moving to Friendship** requires a comprehensive understanding of these factors. Individuals with asthma should carefully evaluate the **transportation** options available and assess their ability to meet their specific needs. The **healthcare access** landscape in 20758 presents both challenges and opportunities. By understanding the intricacies of the **transportation** network, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure their well-being.