21717, Buckeystown, Maryland COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 21717, Buckeystown, Maryland is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.73 percent of residents in 21717 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 8.96 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21717**

The crisp air of Buckeystown, Maryland, in ZIP Code 21717, beckons with a quaint charm, yet for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the realities of healthcare access demand careful consideration. Assessing the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount. This 'COPD Score' write-up delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions, all vital for ensuring timely and reliable healthcare access. For those contemplating moving to Buckeystown, this analysis provides critical insights.

The primary challenge lies in the geographic location. Buckeystown, while picturesque, isn't directly served by major hospitals. The nearest comprehensive facilities, including Frederick Health Hospital and Meritus Medical Center, are situated in Frederick and Hagerstown, respectively. This necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods.

Driving is the most prevalent mode of transportation. From Buckeystown, the journey to Frederick Health Hospital typically involves navigating MD-80 (also known as Buckeystown Pike) and US-15. During off-peak hours, the drive is usually a swift 15 to 20 minutes. However, rush hour significantly impacts this, potentially extending the commute to 30 minutes or more, particularly on weekdays. The route is generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, especially snow or ice, can pose significant challenges for those with COPD.

Reaching Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown requires a more extended drive. The most direct route involves US-15 North to I-70 West, a journey spanning approximately 45 to 60 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Again, peak traffic and adverse weather can dramatically increase this travel time, making it a considerable undertaking for individuals with breathing difficulties.

Public transportation options are limited. The Frederick County Transit (FCT) operates a fixed-route bus system, but service within Buckeystown itself is minimal. The FCT Route 80, which runs along Buckeystown Pike, provides a connection to Frederick. However, this route doesn't directly serve healthcare facilities, requiring transfers and adding to the overall travel time. ADA-accessible buses are available, providing a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations.

For those seeking to access healthcare via public transit, the journey is complex. A bus ride on Route 80 to Frederick, followed by a transfer to another FCT route, such as Route 10 (which serves Frederick Health Hospital), could take up to an hour or more, depending on the schedule and transfer times. This lengthy commute, coupled with the potential for delays, presents a significant barrier for COPD patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another avenue for transportation. Availability in Buckeystown is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase the cost. For those with COPD, the convenience of door-to-door service is a definite advantage. However, the reliability of these services, especially during emergencies, should be carefully considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services can transport individuals to and from medical appointments, providing assistance with mobility and ensuring a comfortable journey. While NEMT services offer a higher level of care, they often come with a higher price tag.

For individuals with COPD, the choice of transportation depends on their individual needs and circumstances. The ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services all play a crucial role. The lack of convenient public transit options, however, presents a significant challenge.

The 'COPD Score' for Buckeystown, 21717, reveals a mixed picture. While drive times to healthcare facilities are relatively short during off-peak hours, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential obstacles. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but these come with associated costs.

For individuals considering moving to Buckeystown with COPD, careful planning is essential. Understanding the transportation landscape, including potential delays and costs, is crucial for ensuring reliable healthcare access. Exploring all available options, from personal vehicles to medical transport services, is vital for maintaining optimal health and well-being. The picturesque setting of Buckeystown is appealing, but the realities of transportation and healthcare access must be carefully weighed.