21757, Keymar, Maryland Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 21757, Keymar, Maryland is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.24 percent of residents in 21757 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 14.23 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21757 (Keymar, Maryland)

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Carroll County, Maryland, the quaint community of Keymar (ZIP Code 21757) offers a slower pace of life. But for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting requires careful consideration of **transportation** options and **healthcare access**. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" for this area, focusing on the practicalities of reaching medical care, a critical factor for residents with respiratory conditions. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for those **moving to Keymar** and seeking accessible healthcare.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Keymar is undoubtedly the ability to reach medical facilities. Driving remains the primary mode of **transportation** for most residents. The closest hospitals and specialized clinics are located outside the immediate vicinity, demanding reliance on personal vehicles.

For routine appointments and primary care, residents often travel to Westminster, the county seat. This journey typically involves navigating rural roads. The most direct route utilizes **Maryland Route 194** south, which then intersects with **Maryland Route 140**. The drive is generally around 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. However, during peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, traffic congestion can extend this commute.

Specialized care, such as pulmonology or allergy clinics, often necessitates travel further afield. Baltimore, with its concentration of hospitals and medical specialists, becomes a necessary destination. The primary route involves taking **Maryland Route 194** south to **Maryland Route 140** east, eventually connecting to **Interstate 795** south. This highway then merges with **Interstate 695**, the Baltimore Beltway. The total drive time can range from 45 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic volume, especially around the Beltway.

Another route involves **Maryland Route 194** south to **Maryland Route 26** east, which then connects to **Interstate 70** east. This route is slightly longer in distance but may sometimes offer less congestion, particularly during rush hour. Regardless of the route, the distance and potential for traffic delays pose a significant consideration for asthma sufferers, who may experience exacerbated symptoms due to prolonged exposure to vehicle exhaust and stress.

Public **transportation** options in Keymar are limited. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates a bus service in Carroll County, but the routes are infrequent and primarily serve Westminster and the surrounding areas. Residents of Keymar would likely need to travel to Westminster to access the bus network.

The MTA bus routes in Carroll County do not directly serve Keymar. The closest routes, such as the **Route 140** (Westminster-Eldersburg) and **Route 150** (Westminster-Taneytown) are located in Westminster. These routes offer limited service, primarily during weekdays, and may not be a viable option for those needing to reach healthcare appointments outside of typical business hours.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair accessibility, are available on MTA buses. However, the infrequent service and limited route coverage make public transit an unreliable option for many, particularly those with severe asthma symptoms who may require prompt medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Keymar area. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments is potentially problematic, as wait times can be unpredictable, and surge pricing during high-demand periods could add to the financial burden.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more reliable alternative. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and MedStar Mobile Healthcare provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services require pre-booking and may involve higher costs compared to ride-sharing or personal vehicles.

The Asthma Score for Keymar, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the community offers a tranquil environment, the **transportation** challenges to **healthcare access** are undeniable. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a potentially stressful situation for asthma sufferers.

The drive times to medical facilities, particularly those requiring specialized care in Baltimore, can be lengthy and subject to traffic delays. This can exacerbate asthma symptoms and increase the risk of respiratory distress. The lack of readily available public **transportation** further limits the options for those without personal vehicles.

While medical transport services provide a crucial safety net, their cost and the need for pre-booking may present challenges for those requiring immediate medical attention. The overall Asthma Score for Keymar, therefore, is moderate, reflecting the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options for residents managing asthma.

For individuals **moving to Keymar** with asthma, it's essential to assess their individual needs and develop a comprehensive healthcare plan. This plan should include strategies for managing asthma symptoms, ensuring access to medication, and establishing reliable **transportation** arrangements for medical appointments. The proximity of Westminster and the availability of medical transport services offer some reassurance, but the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic delays remain significant factors to consider.