21750, Hancock, Maryland COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 21750, Hancock, Maryland is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.42 percent of residents in 21750 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meritus Medical Center with a distance of 27.32 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 21750

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount. The ability to attend appointments, receive treatments, and acquire necessary medications directly impacts quality of life. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 21750, focusing on its impact on healthcare access for COPD patients. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive "COPD Score" to aid those considering moving to Hancock, Maryland.

Hancock, nestled in the heart of Western Maryland, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The town's rural setting influences transportation infrastructure, requiring a careful evaluation of available options. Understanding these nuances is crucial for COPD patients who prioritize consistent and reliable access to medical care. The goal is to determine how readily available and practical it is to reach healthcare facilities from various locations within the zip code.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Hancock is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The region's roads, while scenic, dictate the accessibility of healthcare. The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating the major thoroughfares. Interstate 68 (I-68), a vital east-west artery, offers a relatively swift connection to Cumberland, Maryland, approximately 45 miles away. Driving time to UPMC Western Maryland, a major healthcare provider, typically ranges from 50 minutes to an hour, contingent on traffic and weather conditions.

Traveling south to Hagerstown, a more accessible option for some residents, involves utilizing US Route 40 (US-40) and US Route 522 (US-522). This journey, approximately 30 miles, leads to Meritus Medical Center. Drive times vary between 40 minutes and an hour. These routes, however, can be subject to congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Within Hancock itself, the primary roads, such as Main Street and High Street, provide access to local medical practices and pharmacies. These short drives, typically less than 10 minutes, are generally manageable. However, for specialized care or emergency situations, reliance on longer drives to larger facilities is often necessary.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 21750 are extremely limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals with COPD. The availability of buses and other forms of public transit is sparse, impacting healthcare access. The primary provider is the Washington CountyWashington County Transit (WCT). However, WCT's services in Hancock are infrequent and often require advance scheduling.

WCT route 10, for instance, might provide a limited connection to Hagerstown, but the schedule is not conducive to regular medical appointments. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts, are available on WCT buses, offering a critical service for those with mobility limitations. However, the infrequency of service and the need for prior planning significantly limit its practicality for many COPD patients.

The lack of readily available public transit necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. This absence underscores the need for careful consideration when assessing healthcare access for COPD patients in Hancock.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the Hancock area, but their availability is not guaranteed. While these services can provide a convenient option for occasional trips, their reliability and cost can be inconsistent. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is a concern.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with mobility limitations, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as Firstat Nursing Services and other regional providers, provide transportation to and from medical appointments. They often offer door-to-door service and are equipped to handle patients with specific medical needs. However, these services can be costly and require advance booking, potentially limiting spontaneity.

**The COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Based on the factors outlined above, the "COPD Score" for ZIP Code 21750 is moderate. The presence of major highways like I-68 and US-40 allows for travel to larger healthcare facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges.

The lack of readily available public transit underscores the need for careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles or specialized medical transport. The limited availability of ride-sharing services further complicates the situation. The cost and scheduling requirements of medical transport services add to the complexity.

**Implications for Moving to Hancock**

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Hancock, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs is essential. Reliance on a personal vehicle is almost a necessity. The ability to drive, or access to reliable drivers, is crucial for maintaining healthcare access.

Potential residents should also investigate the availability of medical transport services and factor their cost into their budget. Understanding the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services is vital.

The "COPD Score" for ZIP Code 21750 highlights the importance of proactive planning. While Hancock offers a peaceful, rural setting, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges for individuals with COPD. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for ensuring access to timely and effective healthcare. Prospective residents should prioritize proximity to medical facilities, assess the availability of support networks, and develop a comprehensive transportation plan to meet their healthcare needs.