21634, Fishing Creek, Maryland Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 21634, Fishing Creek, Maryland is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.00 percent of residents in 21634 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 23.08 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Fishing Creek (ZIP Code 21634)

The salty air of Fishing Creek, Maryland (ZIP Code 21634), promises a tranquil existence. However, for individuals managing asthma, the serenity hinges on reliable healthcare access. This write-up analyzes transportation options, crafting an “Asthma Score” to gauge the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, particularly in the event of an asthma exacerbation. This score considers drive times, public transit viability, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a detailed picture of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to this charming waterfront community.

The primary healthcare provider for residents of Fishing Creek is the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton, approximately 20 miles away. This distance, while manageable, necessitates careful consideration of transportation variables. The Asthma Score, therefore, weighs the practicality and reliability of each mode of transport, factoring in potential delays and the need for urgent medical attention.

**Driving: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains the most direct route to healthcare. However, traffic and road conditions significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours. The journey to Easton typically involves navigating Route 335, a scenic yet often narrow road, before merging onto US-50, a major east-west thoroughfare. This stretch of US-50 can experience heavy congestion, particularly during the summer months when tourists flock to the Eastern Shore.

Under ideal conditions, the drive to Easton takes roughly 30 minutes. However, a fender bender on US-50 or slow-moving farm equipment on Route 335 can easily extend this to 45 minutes or longer. The Asthma Score must acknowledge these potential delays, especially for individuals experiencing an asthma attack. Emergency situations demand swift access to medical care, and the unpredictable nature of traffic poses a significant challenge.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Fishing Creek are limited. The Talbot County Transit (TCT) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially on weekends. The primary route serving the area is likely to be Route 100, which connects Easton with other towns in the county. However, the TCT's operational hours are generally restricted to weekdays, and the frequency of service is not designed for immediate medical needs.

Furthermore, the TCT system is not equipped with features that cater specifically to asthma sufferers. While ADA-compliant buses are available, ensuring accessible access, the lack of real-time tracking, limited route options, and potential for extended travel times render public transit a less-than-ideal solution during an asthma crisis. Waiting for a bus, even if it is ADA compliant, could be detrimental during an asthma attack.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Easton area, providing a potential alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability in Fishing Creek, a more rural area, may be less consistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The Asthma Score must account for the potential for longer wait times, which could be critical during an asthma emergency.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare or private ambulance companies, offer specialized transport for patients needing medical attention. These services are equipped to handle medical emergencies and can provide immediate care during transit. However, these services are costly and often reserved for critical situations. Reliance on such services is not a sustainable solution for routine healthcare access.

**Calculating the Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Asthma Score for Fishing Creek (ZIP Code 21634) is a composite metric, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time Reliability:** The average drive time to Easton (30 minutes), adjusted for potential delays due to traffic and road conditions.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, route coverage, and operational hours of the Talbot County Transit, including ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and potential wait times for Uber and Lyft services in the area.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and cost of ambulance or medical transport services.

The score would be lower if the drive time is consistently longer, public transit is unreliable, ride-sharing is unavailable, or medical transportation is the only viable option. A higher score would indicate readily available and reliable access to healthcare, minimizing the challenges faced by asthma sufferers.

**Asthma Score Considerations:**

* **Proximity to Emergency Services:** The distance to the nearest emergency room or urgent care facility is a crucial factor.
* **Availability of Asthma Specialists:** The presence of pulmonologists and allergists in the area is essential for ongoing asthma management.
* **Access to Pharmacies:** The proximity of pharmacies to refill prescriptions is vital.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Challenges**

Moving to Fishing Creek offers a lifestyle that is both scenic and peaceful. However, for individuals with asthma, healthcare access is a critical consideration. While driving provides the most direct route to Easton, potential delays and traffic congestion must be factored in. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing services may have inconsistent availability. Medical transportation offers a solution for emergencies but is not a sustainable approach for routine healthcare.

The Asthma Score for Fishing Creek, therefore, reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Residents should be prepared for potential delays and have a backup plan in place for medical emergencies. While the community offers a beautiful setting, prospective residents with asthma should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the accessibility of resources before making a move. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount to ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in this charming waterfront community.