20763, Savage, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 20763, Savage, Maryland is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.69 percent of residents in 20763 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Howard County General Hospital with a distance of 6.25 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Savage, Maryland (ZIP Code 20763)

Savage, Maryland, a community nestled along the Little Patuxent River, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. However, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of *healthcare access* is paramount. This "Hypertension Score" write-up delves into the *transportation* landscape of ZIP code 20763, examining the practicalities of reaching essential medical appointments. It's designed to provide a clear picture for both current residents and those *moving to Savage*, particularly those with health considerations.

The foundation of navigating healthcare in Savage rests upon the efficient network of roadways. Interstate 95 (I-95), a major artery, runs just east of the ZIP code, offering a direct route north towards Baltimore and south towards Washington, D.C. The Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), another significant thoroughfare, provides a parallel route, offering alternative access to both cities. The primary access points within Savage itself are Route 1 (Washington Boulevard) and Gorman Road. These roads connect to the residential areas and commercial hubs, including the nearest hospitals and medical facilities.

Drive times are a critical factor in healthcare accessibility. For residents in Savage, the closest hospitals are Howard County General Hospital in Columbia and the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. Driving to Howard County General Hospital, via Route 1 and MD-175, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The University of Maryland Medical Center, reachable via I-95 or the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, requires a drive time of around 30-45 minutes. These estimates are based on average traffic conditions and can fluctuate during peak hours.

Public *transportation* options in Savage provide an alternative to driving, although they may present challenges for those with mobility limitations or time constraints. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates bus routes that serve the area. Route 501, for instance, connects Savage to the Columbia Mall and the Howard County General Hospital. Route 503 provides service to the Savage MARC station, offering access to commuter rail service to Baltimore and Washington, D.C. While these routes offer connectivity, frequency and travel times must be considered.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of public *transportation* is a crucial consideration for individuals with hypertension, who may experience mobility issues or require frequent restroom access. MTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the availability of accessible features at all stops and the potential for delays can impact travel times and overall convenience. The Savage MARC station is also ADA compliant, with accessible platforms and elevators.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public *transportation*. These services provide on-demand *transportation* to medical appointments, eliminating the need for parking or navigating traffic. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. Availability can also be an issue during peak hours or in areas with limited service. For residents *moving to Savage*, the reliability and cost of ride-sharing should be factored into their healthcare access planning.

Medical *transportation* services are specifically designed to assist individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services provide door-to-door *transportation*, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. Several companies serve the Savage area, including First Transit and Logisticare. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals who cannot drive or use public *transportation* due to their health conditions. However, medical *transportation* services typically require pre-booking and may involve co-pays or fees.

For individuals managing hypertension, proximity to pharmacies is another important consideration. Several pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens, are located within a short drive of Savage. These pharmacies offer prescription filling, medication counseling, and other healthcare services. The ability to easily access medications and receive professional guidance is crucial for managing hypertension effectively.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Savage, Maryland, reflects a mixed picture. While the area boasts relatively good access to healthcare facilities via roadways, the reliance on driving can be a barrier for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. Public *transportation* options exist, but their frequency and travel times may pose challenges. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but their cost and availability must be considered. Medical *transportation* services provide specialized assistance, but require pre-planning and may involve additional costs.

For individuals *moving to Savage* with hypertension, a thorough assessment of their *transportation* needs is essential. This assessment should include a review of their ability to drive, their willingness to use public *transportation*, and their budget for ride-sharing or medical *transportation* services. Planning for potential delays, traffic congestion, and the availability of accessible features is also crucial. The "Hypertension Score" for Savage, therefore, is not a simple number, but a complex equation that considers individual circumstances and preferences.

The ease of *healthcare access* in Savage is influenced by the interplay of various factors. The presence of major roadways provides a foundation for efficient *transportation*, while public *transportation* offers alternative options. Ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services provide additional layers of support. Ultimately, the ability to effectively navigate these options determines the overall quality of life for individuals managing hypertension in this vibrant community. The availability of local pharmacies further enhances the accessibility of essential medications and healthcare services.