20714, North Beach, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 20714, North Beach, Maryland is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.05 percent of residents in 20714 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calverthealth Medical Center with a distance of 10.96 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in North Beach, ZIP Code 20714**

The allure of North Beach, Maryland, with its charming waterfront and vibrant community, often draws individuals seeking a change of scenery. However, before making the move, particularly for those managing hypertension, a thorough understanding of healthcare access is crucial. This report, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, analyzes the transportation infrastructure within and around ZIP Code 20714, focusing on its impact on accessing essential medical care. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals with hypertension, enabling informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Our analysis considers various transportation modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. The evaluation emphasizes the time, cost, and accessibility of each mode, especially considering the potential limitations imposed by hypertension, such as mobility issues or the need for frequent medical appointments.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

For residents of North Beach, the primary mode of transportation is often personal vehicles. The major thoroughfare, Maryland Route 260, provides direct access to the town and connects to other key routes. Driving times to healthcare facilities are critical, and the score reflects the average time to reach the nearest hospitals and clinics.

For instance, driving south on Route 260 to reach the Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, a major healthcare provider, can take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey involves navigating Route 2 and the John Hanson Highway (I-97). Rush hour, particularly during weekday commutes, can significantly extend this time, potentially impacting the timely access to medical care.

Alternatively, traveling north on Route 260 towards the University of Maryland Capital Region Health in Upper Marlboro, a shorter drive, may take about 20-30 minutes. This route utilizes Route 4 and the Capital Beltway (I-495), which can also experience congestion. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within the immediate vicinity of North Beach offer quicker access for less intensive care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus Routes**

Public transportation presents another option, though its impact on healthcare access requires careful consideration. The local bus service, operated by the Calvert County Transit System, provides limited routes within the county. These routes primarily serve local areas and may not offer direct connections to major hospitals outside the county.

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly service North Beach. This means residents must rely on the Calvert County Transit System for local transportation. The frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may be limited, making it challenging to schedule appointments or access emergency care.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. While the Calvert County Transit System strives to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring that all buses are accessible to individuals with mobility limitations, it is essential to verify the specific features of each route and bus. The availability of accessible stops and the ease of transferring between routes are also important considerations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services in North Beach may vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments should be carefully assessed.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including MedStar Mobile Healthcare and American Medical Response. However, these services may require advance booking and can be expensive, especially for frequent appointments.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Hypertension Score is not a single number but a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access based on transportation factors. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The score also incorporates the cost of transportation, the frequency of appointments, and the individual's mobility limitations.

A high score indicates excellent access to healthcare, with multiple transportation options and minimal travel time. A low score suggests challenges in accessing care, with limited transportation choices, long travel times, and potential cost barriers.

**Factors Impacting the Score**

Several factors influence the Hypertension Score for North Beach residents. The distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of transportation all play a role. The individual's physical condition, mobility limitations, and the frequency of medical appointments also impact the score.

The availability of pharmacies and specialty clinics within the town also contributes to the overall healthcare access. The presence of urgent care facilities can provide immediate medical attention, reducing the need for long trips to hospitals.

**Recommendations for North Beach Residents**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to North Beach, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. Research the location of healthcare providers, evaluate transportation options, and consider the potential impact of traffic and weather conditions.

Explore the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Contact local healthcare providers to inquire about transportation assistance programs. Prepare for the possibility of longer travel times and higher transportation costs.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

The Hypertension Score provides a valuable framework for evaluating healthcare access in North Beach. By understanding the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare, individuals can make informed decisions about their move to the community. While North Beach offers a desirable lifestyle, a careful assessment of healthcare access is crucial for managing hypertension effectively and ensuring a high quality of life. The goal is to facilitate informed choices, making the dream of moving to North Beach a reality while prioritizing the health and well-being of its residents.