21911, Rising Sun, Maryland Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 21911, Rising Sun, Maryland is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.58 percent of residents in 21911 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Harford Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.77 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 21911

The tranquil embrace of Rising Sun, Maryland, nestled within ZIP Code 21911, promises a slower pace of life, a respite from the relentless urban clamor. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic charm must be tempered with a practical understanding of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up meticulously examines the available transportation options, crucial for timely medical attention, especially during an asthma exacerbation. It aims to provide a comprehensive picture for prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Rising Sun, Maryland, and managing their respiratory health.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 21911 is, undeniably, personal transportation. The ability to swiftly reach medical facilities is paramount. Driving remains the most direct and often quickest method. Residents primarily rely on a network of well-maintained roads. The primary artery is **Maryland Route 272 (North East Road)**, which serves as the main thoroughfare connecting Rising Sun to surrounding towns and healthcare providers. This road, while generally smooth, can experience congestion during peak commuting hours, particularly near intersections and in the vicinity of North East.

Heading east on Route 272, travelers can reach **Union Hospital of Cecil County** in Elkton, a journey of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive emergency services and specialized respiratory care, crucial for asthma management. The drive is straightforward, with clear signage and relatively light traffic outside of rush hour.

Traveling west, Route 272 connects to **Interstate 95**, a major north-south highway. This provides access to healthcare facilities in Wilmington, Delaware, and Baltimore, Maryland. While the I-95 corridor offers a wider array of specialized care, the travel time increases significantly. Reaching Wilmington could take 45 minutes to an hour, while Baltimore could be a 1.5- to 2-hour drive, depending on traffic, especially during weekday commutes.

Beyond Route 272, **Maryland Route 273 (Elkton Road)** offers an alternative route, particularly for accessing healthcare in Elkton. This road, while generally less congested than Route 272, can be slower due to a lower speed limit and more frequent stoplights. **Maryland Route 222 (Conowingo Road)** provides access to the Conowingo Dam area and some limited healthcare facilities.

The drive times detailed above are estimates and can fluctuate based on traffic conditions, weather, and the time of day. Residents should always factor in extra time, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, when planning a trip to a healthcare provider.

Public transportation options in 21911 are limited, which can significantly impact healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider is the **Cecil Transit**. While Cecil Transit offers routes within Cecil County, the frequency and coverage are limited, particularly in the more rural areas surrounding Rising Sun.

The availability of ADA-accessible features on Cecil Transit buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. The Cecil Transit website provides information on ADA-accessible routes and services. However, the limited route network and frequency of service may make it challenging for individuals with asthma to rely solely on public transportation for routine medical appointments or emergency situations.

The closest train station is in Newark, Delaware, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from Rising Sun. This option is not ideal for an asthma emergency.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the 21911 area. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is risky, as wait times can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to healthcare providers.

Medical transportation services, such as **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Medic One**, are available in the area. These services provide ambulance transport for emergency situations. However, the cost of ambulance transport can be substantial, and it's crucial to have adequate insurance coverage.

For those considering moving to Rising Sun and managing asthma, careful consideration of healthcare access is paramount. The reliance on personal transportation underscores the importance of owning a reliable vehicle and maintaining it properly. Proximity to major highways, like I-95, can be a double-edged sword. While it offers access to a wider range of healthcare facilities, it also introduces the potential for longer travel times and traffic delays.

The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services highlight the challenges faced by individuals without personal vehicles. The lack of readily available, reliable public transit necessitates careful planning and reliance on family, friends, or community support networks for transportation to medical appointments.

The Asthma Score for 21911 is therefore influenced by the reliance on personal transportation. The ease of access to healthcare facilities is moderately favorable, with the proximity to Union Hospital being a significant advantage. However, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care in Wilmington or Baltimore contribute to a slightly lower overall score.

Prospective residents with asthma should thoroughly research the availability of healthcare providers, including pulmonologists, allergists, and emergency services, in the area. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician and developing a comprehensive asthma action plan is essential. Understanding the local transportation landscape, including potential delays and alternative routes, is crucial for managing asthma effectively in Rising Sun.

The "Asthma Score" for 21911, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the practicalities of healthcare access, particularly the reliance on personal transportation, must be carefully considered. The decision to move to Rising Sun should be accompanied by a proactive approach to managing asthma, including a thorough understanding of the local transportation options and a well-defined plan for accessing healthcare services. The serene beauty of Rising Sun can be enjoyed, but it must be balanced with a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure and the healthcare landscape.