20872, Damascus, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 20872, Damascus, Maryland is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.83 percent of residents in 20872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holy Cross Germantown Hospital with a distance of 6.81 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Damascus, MD (ZIP Code 20872)

The quiet charm of Damascus, Maryland, nestled within ZIP code 20872, offers a compelling allure for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, prospective residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, must consider the realities of healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, analyzing the critical intersection of transportation options and healthcare facilities to determine the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care, especially for those considering moving to Damascus.

Our assessment focuses on the practicalities of getting to appointments, refilling prescriptions, and handling potential emergencies. The score will consider the availability of various transportation methods, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all weighed against the drive times and accessibility features of local healthcare providers.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Damascus is the reliance on personal vehicles. Interstate 70 (I-70) provides the major east-west artery, while Route 27 (Ridge Road) and Route 124 (Woodfield Road) serve as crucial north-south connectors. These roads, especially during peak hours, can experience congestion, potentially delaying critical medical appointments. The relative lack of alternative transportation options magnifies the impact of traffic.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a key component of the Hypertension Score. The closest urgent care facilities are in Germantown, MD, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via I-270 and then onto Germantown Road. The drive to Shady Grove Medical Center in Rockville, MD, a major hospital with comprehensive services, can take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic on I-270. Regular check-ups, specialist appointments, and emergency situations necessitate these time commitments.

Public transportation options, while present, are limited in their impact on healthcare access. The Ride On bus system, operated by Montgomery County, provides service to Damascus. Route 99 serves Damascus, connecting to the Shady Grove Metro Station. However, the frequency of these buses, particularly on weekends and evenings, is limited. Moreover, the commute to the Metro station can be lengthy, adding considerable time to the overall journey to healthcare facilities.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features of public transit are essential for individuals with mobility challenges. Ride On buses are equipped with ramps and other accessibility features. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall journey time must be considered when evaluating the suitability of public transit for hypertension management.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. Their availability in Damascus is generally good, and they can provide door-to-door service. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather or periods of high demand, needs to be factored into the equation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, provide another option. Companies like MedStar Health Mobile Healthcare and other private medical transport services operate in the area. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their healthcare needs. However, these services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation methods.

The availability of pharmacies is another crucial element. Several pharmacies are located within Damascus, including CVS and Walgreens, offering convenient access to prescription refills and over-the-counter medications. However, for specialized medications or services, residents may need to travel to pharmacies in neighboring communities, potentially increasing travel time and complexity.

The Hypertension Score also considers the availability of telehealth services. Many healthcare providers now offer virtual appointments, allowing patients to consult with their doctors remotely. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for managing hypertension, especially for routine check-ups and medication adjustments. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on reliable internet access and the patient's comfort level with technology.

The score will also reflect the availability of community resources and support groups for individuals with hypertension. These resources can provide valuable information, education, and emotional support. The proximity of these resources and the ease with which they can be accessed are important factors in the overall assessment.

Considering the above factors, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 20872 is moderately impacted by transportation. While Damascus offers a pleasant living environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges for healthcare access. The drive times to major medical facilities, particularly during peak hours, can be significant.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides alternative options, but they come with associated costs and potential reliability issues. The convenience of local pharmacies and the increasing availability of telehealth services partially mitigate these challenges.

For individuals with hypertension, or those considering moving to Damascus with existing health conditions, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. They must factor in the potential for traffic delays, the limitations of public transit, and the costs of alternative transportation methods.

The "Hypertension Score" for Damascus, MD (ZIP code 20872) would be a 6 out of 10. The score is impacted by the limited public transportation, and the reliance on cars to access healthcare. The score could be improved by an increased frequency of bus service, and the development of more local medical facilities.