21866, Tylerton, Maryland Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 21866, Tylerton, Maryland is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 21866 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 35.79 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tylerton (ZIP Code 21866)

Considering a move to Tylerton, Maryland (ZIP code 21866), and managing asthma? This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare, focusing on transportation options, a critical factor for individuals with respiratory conditions. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical care is paramount, especially during asthma exacerbations. We will explore the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare from Tylerton, evaluating drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation solutions. This information will help you gauge the feasibility of living in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community.

Tylerton, a charming island town in Somerset County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. Its location, nestled within the Chesapeake Bay, dictates that most travel to and from the mainland involves a ferry or boat. While the ferry offers a scenic commute, it inherently limits the speed and spontaneity of travel, especially when healthcare is needed. This isolation directly impacts healthcare access, making understanding transportation options crucial for residents with asthma.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary route connecting Tylerton to mainland healthcare facilities involves the ferry to Crisfield, followed by driving. The ferry operates on a limited schedule, impacting the flexibility of travel. From Crisfield, the most direct route to Salisbury, the county seat, and home to Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC), is via **Maryland Route 413** (also known as Crisfield Highway) and then **US Route 13**.

During optimal traffic conditions, the drive from Crisfield to PRMC is approximately 45 to 60 minutes. However, this time can be significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours or in the event of an accident. The **US Route 13** corridor is a major thoroughfare, and congestion is common.

Emergency situations require immediate access to care. This necessitates a rapid response system. For those with asthma, every minute counts during a severe attack. The drive time to the nearest urgent care facility in Crisfield is significantly shorter, but the level of care might be limited compared to a larger hospital like PRMC.

**Public Transit Puzzles:**

Public transportation options in this area are limited. The Somerset County Transportation (SCT) provides demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available for medical appointments, but the scheduling constraints and potential wait times can be problematic for individuals with asthma.

The SCT vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and ramps, making them accessible for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability of the service and the potential for delays should be considered when planning medical appointments. The lack of a fixed-route bus system limits the spontaneity of travel and adds complexity to healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: A Shifting Landscape:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Somerset County. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas like Tylerton. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not a reliable option.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transport for patients needing assistance. These services are essential for individuals with asthma who may experience difficulty driving or require medical support during transport.

**Medical Transport Brands** like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services are available, but response times can be affected by the island's location. NEMT providers, often contracted by insurance companies, offer transportation to medical appointments. However, availability and the quality of service can vary. It is essential to research and pre-arrange medical transportation options before moving to Tylerton.

**Healthcare Access Assessment: An Asthma Score Perspective:**

The "Asthma Score" for Tylerton reflects the challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The limited transportation options, particularly the dependence on the ferry and the lack of readily available public transit or ride-sharing, pose significant challenges for individuals with asthma. The potential for extended drive times to reach specialized medical care, coupled with the potential for delays, can be concerning.

However, the availability of medical transportation services and the presence of a local urgent care facility in Crisfield provide some reassurance. The community's small size and close-knit nature may also foster a supportive environment, with neighbors and local organizations potentially offering assistance with transportation.

**Moving to Tylerton: Informed Decisions:**

Before moving to Tylerton, individuals with asthma should meticulously evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation requirements. They should:

* **Research and pre-arrange medical transportation:** Identify and establish relationships with NEMT providers or other medical transport services.
* **Assess the availability of emergency services:** Understand the response times for ambulances and emergency medical services.
* **Plan for potential delays:** Factor in ferry schedules, traffic conditions, and potential transportation disruptions when scheduling medical appointments.
* **Build a support network:** Establish connections with local healthcare providers and community members who can offer assistance.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare:** Evaluate the location of medical facilities and the ease of access.

Moving to Tylerton with asthma requires careful planning and a proactive approach to healthcare access. While the beauty and tranquility of the island are undeniable, the transportation limitations necessitate a strategic approach to ensure timely and reliable access to medical care. This "Asthma Score" write-up aims to provide a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs in this unique community.