21842, Ocean City, Maryland COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 21842, Ocean City, Maryland is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.50 percent of residents in 21842 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Atlantic General Hospital with a distance of 7.97 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Ocean City, MD (ZIP Code 21842)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and around Ocean City, Maryland (ZIP Code 21842), providing a "COPD Score" to evaluate the ease of commute to healthcare facilities. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Ocean City, as it directly impacts their quality of life and disease management. We will explore the available transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities for individuals with COPD.

Ocean City, a vibrant coastal town, presents unique transportation considerations. The primary artery in and out of the area is **Route 50**, a major east-west highway connecting to the mainland. Within the town, **Coastal Highway (Route 528)** serves as the main thoroughfare, running parallel to the Atlantic Ocean. Smaller roads, such as **Philadelphia Avenue** and various side streets, provide access to residential areas and local businesses. The layout, while seemingly straightforward, can become congested, particularly during peak tourist seasons, which can significantly impact drive times and healthcare access.

The nearest major healthcare facilities are located outside of Ocean City. **Atlantic General Hospital** in Berlin, MD, is a primary destination. The drive to Atlantic General Hospital from central Ocean City typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey primarily involves traveling west on Route 50. During the summer months, this drive can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour during peak traffic times.

For specialized care, patients may need to travel further. **Peninsula Regional Medical Center** in Salisbury, MD, offers comprehensive pulmonary services. The drive to Salisbury involves a longer journey, approximately 45 minutes to an hour via Route 50. This longer commute adds to the potential challenges for individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue during travel.

Public transportation options in Ocean City are limited but available. The **Ocean City Transportation Department** operates a bus system, primarily serving Coastal Highway. While a convenient option for some, the routes may not always directly serve healthcare facilities outside of Ocean City. Route 50 does not have a dedicated bus route, which is a huge factor in healthcare access.

The Ocean City bus system offers ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the frequency of buses, particularly during off-peak hours, may be insufficient for those requiring frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the potential for transfers and longer travel times can be problematic for individuals with COPD.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Ocean City. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during off-season periods. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing offers door-to-door service, the unpredictability of wait times and driver availability can pose challenges for individuals with COPD who require timely access to care.

Medical transportation services are also available. Companies like **MedStar Mobile Healthcare** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** provide non-emergency medical transport. These services are specifically designed for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions. While these services offer a valuable solution, they often require prior scheduling and may involve higher costs compared to other transportation options.

The COPD Score for Ocean City, MD (21842) reflects a mixed bag of transportation challenges and opportunities. The reliance on Route 50 for accessing major healthcare facilities introduces a vulnerability to traffic congestion, particularly during peak tourist seasons. The limited public transportation options and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care facilities further complicate healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but their availability and cost can be unpredictable. Medical transportation services provide a reliable solution but may be subject to scheduling constraints and higher expenses.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Ocean City, careful consideration of these transportation factors is crucial. The ability to drive or rely on a caregiver for transportation is a significant advantage. Exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also essential. Furthermore, understanding the potential impact of seasonal traffic on commute times is vital for planning and managing healthcare appointments effectively.

The COPD Score for Ocean City, MD (21842) is moderate. While the town offers some transportation options, the reliance on Route 50 and the limited public transportation infrastructure present challenges for individuals with COPD. Careful planning, awareness of traffic conditions, and exploration of available transportation resources are essential for ensuring timely and reliable healthcare access. This is especially true for those considering relocating to this beautiful coastal community.