21128, Perry Hall, Maryland COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 21128, Perry Hall, Maryland is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.80 percent of residents in 21128 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Hospital Center with a distance of 18.12 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21128

The crisp air of Perry Hall, Maryland (ZIP Code 21128), beckons with its suburban charm and promise of a quieter life. But for individuals grappling with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the reality of relocating necessitates a meticulous examination of healthcare access, particularly the complexities of **transportation**. This write-up, a COPD Score assessment, delves into the practicalities of reaching healthcare providers from within 21128, offering insights for those considering a move or already residing in this community.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to arrive at appointments reliably and with minimal stress. In Perry Hall, the primary mode of **transportation** for many is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are crucial, especially for COPD patients who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue. From the heart of 21128, a drive to the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, a major healthcare hub, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. The journey primarily involves navigating Belair Road (Route 1), a major artery through the area, and then transitioning onto Joppa Road.

Another prominent healthcare provider is MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center. Reaching this facility often involves a drive of approximately 20-25 minutes, again depending on traffic flow. The route frequently utilizes Belair Road, followed by a turn onto the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) and then onto Rossville Boulevard. The Beltway, while efficient, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times and adding to the strain on individuals with breathing difficulties.

Smaller, specialized clinics and physician offices are scattered throughout the surrounding areas. These facilities, offering pulmonary care, physical therapy, and other essential services, can be reached via shorter drives, often within 10-15 minutes. Routes typically involve local roads such as Honeygo Boulevard, Ebenezer Road, and Silver Spring Road. However, the variability of traffic conditions, particularly during rush hour, necessitates careful planning.

Public **transportation** options in 21128 offer an alternative, though their accessibility and suitability for COPD patients warrant careful consideration. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates several bus routes serving the area. Route 12, for example, provides service along Belair Road, connecting Perry Hall to downtown Baltimore and other areas. Route 19 offers service along Joppa Road.

However, the frequency of these routes may be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. Furthermore, the physical demands of navigating bus stops, waiting in varying weather conditions, and the potential for crowded buses can pose challenges for individuals with COPD. The MTA does offer ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating areas. It is crucial to verify the availability of these features on specific routes and at specific times.

For those unable to drive or utilize public **transportation**, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide another option. These services offer door-to-door **transportation**, eliminating the need to navigate parking or wait for buses. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. These services typically offer non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and Liberty Medical Transportation operate in the Baltimore area. While these services offer convenience and specialized support, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than other options.

The decision to move to Perry Hall, or any location, requires a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. For individuals with COPD, the ability to reach healthcare providers efficiently and comfortably is paramount. This COPD Score assessment highlights the importance of considering drive times, public **transportation** options, ride-sharing availability, and medical **transportation** services.

The COPD Score, in this context, is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative evaluation of the accessibility of healthcare. It is a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by the available **transportation** options. The drive times to major hospitals, while generally reasonable, can be impacted by traffic. Public **transportation**, while available, may present physical and logistical challenges. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer convenience but come with associated costs.

When considering a move to Perry Hall, individuals with COPD should meticulously research the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized pulmonary care, and the practicality of the available **transportation** options. Contacting the local MTA to inquire about bus routes, ADA features, and schedules is essential. Researching ride-sharing costs and availability, particularly during peak appointment times, is also recommended.

Furthermore, investigating medical **transportation** services and their associated costs is crucial. Talking to current residents and healthcare providers in the area can provide valuable insights into the realities of accessing healthcare. This proactive approach, combined with a thorough understanding of the available **transportation** options, will empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and their **moving to Perry Hall**.

The ideal scenario involves a combination of factors: a convenient location relative to healthcare providers, reliable and accessible **transportation** options, and a supportive community. By carefully evaluating these elements, individuals with COPD can make informed decisions about their healthcare and quality of life, ensuring that their move to Perry Hall is a positive and sustainable one. The journey to healthcare, like the journey of life with COPD, requires careful planning, adaptability, and a commitment to prioritizing well-being.