20751, Deale, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 20751, Deale, Maryland is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

23.74 percent of residents in 20751 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Luminis Health J Kent Mcnew Family Medical Center with a distance of 13.44 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 20751**

The picturesque coastal community of Deale, Maryland, nestled in ZIP code 20751, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but assessing healthcare access is crucial for residents, especially concerning conditions like hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" evaluating the ease of reaching medical facilities equipped to manage this prevalent condition. We'll delve into the transportation landscape, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, all factors influencing healthcare access and impacting the well-being of those considering moving to Deale.

The "Hypertension Score" will consider the time and effort required to reach healthcare providers specializing in hypertension management. This includes primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and diagnostic centers capable of providing blood pressure monitoring, medication prescriptions, and lifestyle counseling. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and advantages of healthcare access within the context of Deale's unique location and transportation infrastructure.

**Driving the Route to Care**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The drive to healthcare facilities from Deale hinges on several key roadways. Route 256, also known as Deale Road, is the main artery, connecting the community to surrounding areas. Heading north, Route 256 intersects with Route 2, also known as Solomons Island Road, a major thoroughfare providing access to Annapolis and the broader Anne Arundel County healthcare network. Southbound on Route 2, residents can access facilities in Calvert County.

Drive times are significantly affected by traffic patterns. During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, congestion on Route 2 can extend travel times considerably. For example, a typical drive to Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, approximately 20 miles north, could take 30 to 45 minutes under ideal conditions, but easily stretches to an hour or more during rush hour.

Similarly, the drive to CalvertHealth Medical Center in Prince Frederick, about 25 miles south, also faces potential delays. The absence of direct highway access necessitates navigating local roads, increasing the risk of delays due to accidents or unforeseen circumstances. Considering these factors, the automobile’s accessibility to healthcare in 20751 is not always guaranteed, especially during emergencies.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Deale are limited. The primary provider is the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA), offering bus services. However, the availability of bus routes directly serving Deale is sparse. Route 210 provides limited service along Route 2, but its frequency and coverage are insufficient to provide convenient access to healthcare facilities.

The absence of a dedicated bus route within Deale itself means residents must rely on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services to reach the nearest bus stops. This adds an extra layer of complexity and time to the commute. Furthermore, the limited hours of operation for the existing routes, particularly on weekends and evenings, further restrict access to healthcare for those relying on public transportation.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. While the MTA strives to provide accessible services, the practical implementation in Deale can be challenging. The availability of accessible bus stops and the reliability of wheelchair lifts on buses are factors that impact the usability of public transportation for individuals with mobility impairments. The lack of adequate public transportation poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or do not have access to a car.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services in Deale can be variable. Ride-sharing relies on the presence of drivers in the area, and the rural nature of Deale may result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares, especially during off-peak hours.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, can be another option. Several companies operate in the region, offering specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services often require advance booking and may involve significant costs, making them less accessible for spontaneous medical needs.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transportation highlights the challenges of healthcare access in Deale. While these services can bridge the gaps in public transit and personal vehicle availability, their cost and availability can be a barrier for some residents.

**Pharmacy Access and Specialized Care**

Access to pharmacies is a crucial component of hypertension management. Residents of 20751 have several options. Local pharmacies within the surrounding communities offer prescription filling services and over-the-counter medications. The drive to these pharmacies is generally manageable, but the travel time can be a factor for those with mobility limitations or limited transportation options.

Specialized care, such as cardiology appointments and diagnostic testing, often requires travel to larger medical centers. The commute to these facilities, as discussed earlier, can be time-consuming and subject to traffic delays. This underscores the importance of proactive planning and consideration of transportation when seeking specialized care for hypertension.

**The Hypertension Score: A Summary**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for residents of 20751 reveals a mixed picture. While the community offers a tranquil environment, healthcare access presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to timely healthcare access.

The drive times to major medical facilities, particularly during peak hours, can be significant. The lack of robust public transportation further complicates the situation for those who do not have access to a car. The limited availability of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transportation add to the challenges.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve healthcare access for residents of 20751, several strategies could be considered. Enhancing public transportation options, including the introduction of additional bus routes and increased service frequency, would provide a crucial alternative to driving. Promoting ride-sharing programs and exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers could help bridge the gaps in transportation access.

Investing in telehealth services, enabling remote consultations and monitoring, could also improve healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Supporting the development of local healthcare facilities, including primary care clinics and pharmacies, could reduce the need for long-distance travel.

For individuals considering moving to Deale, a careful assessment of transportation needs and healthcare access is crucial. The availability of reliable transportation, the proximity of healthcare providers, and the availability of support services should be carefully considered when making decisions about healthcare. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of considering these factors to ensure the well-being of residents in this beautiful coastal community.