21821, Deal Island, Maryland Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 21821, Deal Island, Maryland is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.00 percent of residents in 21821 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 31.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 23.06 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Deal Island (ZIP Code 21821)

The salty tang of the Chesapeake Bay, the whisper of wind through marsh grasses, the close-knit community – these are the siren songs of Deal Island, Maryland (ZIP Code 21821). But for individuals managing asthma, the allure of this idyllic locale must be tempered by a critical consideration: healthcare access. This analysis, an "Asthma Score" write-up, assesses the transportation landscape for residents of Deal Island seeking medical care, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and alternative transport solutions. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating a move to Deal Island, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities.

The core of this assessment considers the journey to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities. The most immediate concern is the limited healthcare infrastructure *within* Deal Island. There are no hospitals or major clinics directly within the ZIP code. Therefore, residents rely on transportation to reach medical professionals. This necessitates careful evaluation of available routes and potential delays.

Driving, the most common mode of *transportation*, is heavily influenced by the geography of the Delmarva Peninsula. The primary route out of Deal Island is via Deal Island Road, a winding, scenic route that eventually merges with Maryland Route 363. This road, while beautiful, is narrow and can experience congestion during peak hours, especially during the summer months when tourism increases. Route 363 then connects to Maryland Route 13, a major north-south artery, also known as the Ocean Highway.

The drive time to the nearest full-service hospital, Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC) in Salisbury, is the benchmark. Under ideal conditions, this journey is estimated at approximately 45 minutes to an hour. However, this estimate is vulnerable to several factors. Traffic on Route 13, particularly around Salisbury, can significantly extend travel times. Accidents, construction, or even inclement weather can easily add an additional 30 minutes or more to the commute. This variability presents a significant challenge for asthma sufferers who may require immediate medical attention.

Another healthcare option is TidalHealth McCready Pavilion in Crisfield, Maryland. This facility is closer, with a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes, primarily utilizing Deal Island Road and Maryland Route 413. While closer, McCready is a smaller facility, offering a more limited range of services than PRMC. This means that for specialized care, residents may still need to travel to Salisbury or even further afield.

Public *transportation* options are limited. The Somerset CountySomerset County Transportation (SCT) provides a demand-response service. This service requires advance booking and operates within Somerset County. While it *could* potentially provide transport to medical appointments, it is not a readily available, on-demand service. This means that the planning and scheduling of medical appointments must be carefully coordinated with the SCT's availability, potentially limiting choices and flexibility. Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features of the SCT vehicles should be verified to ensure suitability for individuals with asthma, especially those who may experience mobility challenges during an asthma attack.

The SCT website and phone number should be researched for current information on routes, schedules, and ADA compliance. This information is critical for anyone considering relying on public transport for healthcare access. The frequency of service and the duration of the journey must be carefully weighed against the individual's medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Deal Island are questionable. The rural nature of the area may result in longer wait times and higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is therefore not recommended.

Medical *transportation* services, such as ambulances, are available. However, the response time of emergency medical services (EMS) to Deal Island is a critical factor. Given the island's relative isolation, response times may be longer than in more urban areas. This delay can be critical during an asthma attack. The availability of specialized medical transport, such as ambulances equipped to handle respiratory emergencies, must be confirmed.

The "Asthma Score" for Deal Island is therefore influenced by several factors. The primary concern is the distance to comprehensive healthcare facilities and the reliance on personal vehicles. The limitations of public transport, the uncertainty of ride-sharing, and the potential for delayed EMS response all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access environment.

The decision to move to Deal Island for individuals with asthma should be carefully considered. While the community and the natural environment may be appealing, the challenges of accessing healthcare must be weighed against the benefits. A thorough assessment of individual medical needs, the availability of personal transport, and the ability to navigate the existing *transportation* landscape is essential.

For those who choose to move to Deal Island, proactive planning is crucial. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician *before* moving is highly recommended. This will help ensure continuity of care and facilitate access to specialist referrals if needed. Maintaining a well-stocked supply of asthma medication and a clear asthma action plan is also essential.

Furthermore, exploring alternative *transportation* options, such as arranging for a neighbor or friend to provide transport to medical appointments, can enhance healthcare access. Understanding the limitations of local emergency services and having a plan in place for potential medical emergencies is paramount.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Deal Island highlights the need for careful consideration and proactive planning for individuals with asthma. While the beauty of the island is undeniable, the challenges of accessing healthcare require a realistic assessment and a commitment to ensuring that medical needs are met effectively. The journey to healthcare in Deal Island is not always straightforward, but with careful planning and a commitment to proactive healthcare management, residents can mitigate the challenges and thrive in this unique community.