20896, Garrett Park, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 20896, Garrett Park, Maryland is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.46 percent of residents in 20896 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Walter Reed National Military Med Cen with a distance of 2.37 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Garrett Park (ZIP Code 20896)

The quaint, tree-lined streets of Garrett Park, Maryland (ZIP Code 20896), evoke a sense of tranquility. But beneath the idyllic facade lies a crucial question for residents, especially those managing hypertension: How accessible is healthcare? This write-up explores the “Hypertension Score” for this community, focusing on the ease of transportation to medical facilities, a critical factor in managing this pervasive condition. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

For individuals with hypertension, consistent medical care is paramount. Regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling are vital components of effective treatment. The ability to easily and reliably reach a healthcare provider is not merely a convenience; it is a necessity. Therefore, the "Hypertension Score" will assess the various transportation options available to residents of Garrett Park, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities they face in accessing essential medical services.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Arteries of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Garrett Park, as with much of suburban Maryland, is the automobile. Accessing healthcare often begins with navigating the local road network. The major artery connecting Garrett Park to surrounding areas is **Interstate 270 (I-270)**, a crucial corridor for commuters and those seeking medical care in Bethesda and Rockville.

Driving to Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, a major healthcare provider, is typically a 10-15 minute drive via **River Road** and **Old Georgetown Road**. Traffic, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact this commute. Residents should factor in potential delays, especially when scheduling appointments or in the event of a medical emergency. The availability of ample parking at Suburban Hospital is generally good, but it's wise to allow extra time, especially during busy periods.

Heading north, **I-270** offers access to facilities in Rockville, including Kaiser Permanente and Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. The drive to Rockville is generally a 15-20 minute journey, depending on traffic conditions. **Montrose Road** and **Rockville Pike (Route 355)** are key roads for navigating the Rockville area. The availability of parking varies depending on the specific facility, and it's recommended to check parking information beforehand.

For those who prefer a more direct route, **Strathmore Avenue** provides a link to **Connecticut Avenue**, offering another route to Bethesda. However, this route is generally slower due to traffic lights and local roads. The drive time is approximately 20-25 minutes.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus and Rail Network**

While driving is prevalent, public transportation provides an alternative for residents of Garrett Park. The **Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)**, commonly known as Metro, operates the public transit system in the region.

The **Red Line** of the Metro offers rail service, with the closest station being the **Garrett Park Station**. This station provides direct access to downtown Washington, D.C., and connects to other Metro lines. However, the **Garrett Park Station** is not directly adjacent to major medical facilities. To reach hospitals like Suburban Hospital, a transfer to a bus route is required.

Several WMATA bus routes serve the area, providing connections to medical facilities. **Route L2** operates along **Strathmore Avenue** and **Connecticut Avenue**, offering a direct route to Bethesda and access to Suburban Hospital. **Route 6** provides service along **Old Georgetown Road**, connecting to hospitals in Bethesda and Rockville.

Accessibility is a key consideration. All WMATA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, ensuring ADA compliance. The **Garrett Park Station** is also ADA-accessible. However, bus schedules and potential delays can impact the reliability of public transit, making it less convenient for individuals with hypertension, who often need to adhere to strict appointment schedules.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Supplemental Support**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand access to medical facilities. The availability of ride-sharing services in Garrett Park is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs.

For individuals who require specialized transportation, medical transportation services are available. These services cater to patients with mobility limitations or those who need assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies like LogistiCare and ModivCare provide non-emergency medical transportation in the area. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve coordination with insurance providers.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

* **LogistiCare:** A national provider of non-emergency medical transportation, often contracted by Medicaid and managed care organizations.
* **ModivCare:** Another major provider, offering similar services.
* **CareRide:** A local provider of non-emergency medical transportation in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.

**The "Hypertension Score" in Context**

The "Hypertension Score" for Garrett Park reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major roads like **I-270** and **River Road** offers relatively easy access to healthcare via personal vehicles, traffic congestion and parking availability can pose challenges. Public transportation provides an alternative, but the need for transfers and the potential for delays can impact its reliability. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer supplemental support, but their availability and cost should be considered.

**Moving to Garrett Park:**

For those considering moving to Garrett Park, the "Hypertension Score" should be a factor in the decision-making process. While the community offers a desirable quality of life, the accessibility of healthcare requires careful consideration. Individuals with hypertension should assess their transportation needs and preferences, considering the potential impact of traffic, public transit schedules, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services. This proactive approach will ensure that residents can effectively manage their health and enjoy the benefits of living in this charming community.