20853, Rockville, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 20853, Rockville, Maryland is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.55 percent of residents in 20853 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Montgomery Medical Center with a distance of 4.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 20853

For those considering a move to Rockville, Maryland (ZIP Code 20853), understanding the nuances of healthcare access is paramount, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on reaching essential medical appointments. The goal is to illuminate the ease or difficulty of commuting to healthcare, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. This information empowers potential residents to make informed decisions regarding their well-being.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a numerical value but a comprehensive analysis of factors affecting healthcare access. It considers the time and effort required to reach medical facilities, recognizing that consistent and reliable transportation is crucial for managing hypertension. Frequent check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits necessitate a dependable transportation infrastructure.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Road Ahead**

Rockville, a vibrant hub in Montgomery County, offers a network of highways and roads that facilitate transportation. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times to healthcare providers. For residents of 20853, several major arteries play a crucial role in accessing medical facilities.

The primary thoroughfare, Interstate 270 (I-270), provides a direct route to many healthcare providers located in Rockville and neighboring communities. Depending on the specific location within 20853 and the destination clinic, drive times on I-270 can vary considerably. During rush hour, a trip that might take 15 minutes off-peak could easily stretch to 30 minutes or more.

Another critical route is Rockville Pike (Route 355), a major commercial corridor running through the heart of Rockville. Numerous medical offices and hospitals are situated along this road, making it a convenient option for many residents. However, Rockville Pike is often congested, particularly near the Rockville Town Square and other commercial areas.

For those residing in the northern parts of 20853, access to the Intercounty Connector (ICC/Route 200) can offer an alternative route to healthcare facilities in surrounding areas, such as Shady Grove Adventist Hospital. However, tolls and the distance to the ICC's entry points should be factored into the overall commute time.

Smaller roads, such as Montrose Road and Veirs Mill Road, also provide access to healthcare providers, but these routes are generally slower and more susceptible to traffic delays. The "Hypertension Score" considers these variations in drive times, recognizing that the best route depends on the origin and destination within 20853.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Metro and Beyond**

Montgomery County offers a robust public transportation system, including the Washington Metropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metro and a network of buses. For residents of 20853, the Red Line Metro provides a vital link to healthcare facilities.

The Rockville Metro Station, a key transportation hub, is readily accessible to many residents. The Red Line offers direct access to hospitals and medical centers in the District of Columbia and other parts of Maryland. However, the Metro's reliability can be affected by delays, especially during inclement weather or track maintenance.

Several Metrobus routes serve 20853, providing connections to various healthcare providers within the county. These buses offer a more localized transportation option, connecting residents to clinics and medical offices that may not be directly accessible via the Metro.

Accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with hypertension. The WMATA Metro and Metrobus systems are ADA-compliant, offering features such as elevators, ramps, and priority seating to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of these features can vary depending on the specific station or bus route.

The "Hypertension Score" assesses the accessibility and reliability of public transit options, recognizing that public transportation can be a cost-effective and convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who prefer not to drive or cannot drive.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular as a transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit.

The availability of ride-sharing services in 20853 is generally good, with readily available drivers. However, the cost of these services can be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost of a ride.

Medical transportation services offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and other needs. Some medical transportation providers in the area include CareRide and First Transit. These services can be particularly helpful for individuals who have difficulty using public transit or who require assistance with mobility.

The "Hypertension Score" evaluates the availability, cost, and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, recognizing that these options can fill the gaps in the transportation network and provide crucial support for individuals managing hypertension.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for 20853 is not a static assessment. It's a dynamic evaluation that considers the interplay of all transportation options. The score acknowledges that the ideal transportation solution varies depending on individual needs, preferences, and the specific healthcare facility.

For individuals considering moving to Rockville, understanding the transportation landscape is critical. The "Hypertension Score" aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in 20853.

**Conclusion: Informed Decisions for a Healthier Future**

Moving to a new area is a significant life decision. For individuals managing hypertension, assessing healthcare access is paramount. This "Hypertension Score" write-up provides a framework for evaluating the transportation infrastructure in 20853, empowering potential residents to make informed choices about their healthcare needs. By considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, individuals can proactively plan for their healthcare needs and ensure they have reliable access to medical care. The goal is to facilitate a smooth transition and support a healthy lifestyle for those moving to Rockville.