21862, Showell, Maryland Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 21862, Showell, Maryland is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 21862 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Atlantic General Hospital with a distance of 4.26 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Showell, Maryland (ZIP Code 21862)

The salty tang of the Atlantic, the rustling whispers of the pines, and the vibrant community spirit – these are the hallmarks of Showell, Maryland (ZIP Code 21862). But for those managing asthma, the serenity of this coastal haven must be balanced with practical considerations: healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, examining transportation options to healthcare facilities for residents and those considering moving to Showell, ensuring informed decisions for respiratory health management.

Showell, a census-designated place in Worcester County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The area is primarily car-dependent, with public transit and ride-sharing options more limited than in urban centers. This geographical reality significantly impacts healthcare access, especially during asthma exacerbations, when rapid transport to medical care is paramount.

The core of this assessment centers on drive times. Understanding the time required to reach healthcare facilities, particularly those equipped to handle asthma emergencies, is crucial. The primary route to larger healthcare centers involves navigating the arteries of the region.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The most direct route to larger hospitals often involves utilizing **Route 113**, a major north-south thoroughfare. From Showell, a drive south on Route 113 leads to **Atlantic General Hospital** in Berlin, a critical access hospital. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes. This is a relatively favorable time, offering a reasonable window for intervention during an asthma attack.

Alternatively, heading north on Route 113 connects to **Route 50**, a major east-west highway. This route provides access to healthcare facilities in Salisbury, Maryland, approximately a 40-45 minute drive. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, especially during peak traffic hours or adverse weather conditions.

Smaller, more immediate care options exist. **Walk-in clinics and urgent care centers** are scattered throughout the area, offering immediate treatment for less severe asthma symptoms. These are often accessible within a 5-10 minute drive, providing a crucial safety net for managing asthma flares. The precise location of these clinics will be important for a prospective resident to determine.

**Public Transportation Considerations:**

Public transportation options in Showell are limited. The **Worcester County Transportation Department** provides a bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, primarily focusing on serving the needs of the elderly and disabled. The existing routes, while offering some mobility, are unlikely to be a reliable option during an asthma emergency.

The buses are equipped with **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features**, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the limited frequency and potential for lengthy travel times render public transit a less-than-ideal solution for individuals experiencing acute respiratory distress. The ability to quickly access medical care is essential for asthma patients, making the lack of reliable public transportation a significant factor in the Asthma Score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber and Lyft**, are available in Showell, but their reliability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. During peak hours or in emergencies, securing a ride may be challenging, potentially delaying access to medical care.

Medical transport services, such as **ambulance services**, are crucial for severe asthma exacerbations. These services are dispatched through 911 and provide rapid transport to the nearest hospital. The response time for ambulances in Showell is generally good, but the distance to the nearest hospital remains a factor.

**Healthcare Access and Asthma Management:**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access encompasses the availability of specialized asthma care. The presence of pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists in the area is crucial for long-term asthma management.

**Atlantic General Hospital** in Berlin offers comprehensive respiratory care services. Salisbury, with its larger hospitals, provides a wider range of specialists. The availability of these specialists impacts the overall Asthma Score, as timely access to expert care is essential for controlling asthma symptoms and preventing severe attacks.

**The Asthma Score and Moving to Showell:**

The "Asthma Score" for Showell, Maryland, is moderate. While the drive time to **Atlantic General Hospital** is relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the variability of ride-sharing services introduce potential challenges for individuals with asthma.

Those considering moving to Showell should carefully assess their individual needs and preferences. Proximity to a reliable means of transportation, whether a personal vehicle or a supportive network of family and friends, is critical.

The decision to move to Showell requires a proactive approach to asthma management. Establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider, understanding the location of urgent care facilities, and having an asthma action plan in place are essential steps.

Furthermore, prospective residents should investigate the availability of home healthcare services, which can provide in-home support during asthma flare-ups. This may include respiratory therapy, medication management, and assistance with daily activities.

**Conclusion:**

Showell offers a beautiful coastal lifestyle. However, individuals with asthma must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape and healthcare access options before making a move. While the drive time to **Atlantic General Hospital** is reasonable, the limitations of public transit and the variability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning. By prioritizing healthcare access, establishing a robust asthma action plan, and leveraging available resources, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate the challenges and enjoy the tranquility of Showell. The key is to prioritize proactive healthcare access and understand the transportation options available to ensure the best possible quality of life.