21005, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21005, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.66 percent of residents in 21005 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Umd Upper Chesapeake Medical Center with a distance of 11.52 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21005

The journey to manage hypertension in ZIP Code 21005, home to Aberdeen Proving Ground, is a multifaceted one, intricately woven with the threads of transportation and healthcare access. This write-up explores the landscape, offering a ‘Hypertension Score’ assessment, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. For individuals moving to Aberdeen Proving Ground, understanding these nuances is crucial for maintaining optimal health.

The Hypertension Score is not a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment of the ease and efficiency with which residents can access necessary healthcare services related to hypertension management. This includes appointments with primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and potentially specialized services like cardiac rehabilitation. The score is influenced by the availability and accessibility of various transportation options.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary artery for vehicular movement in 21005 is the I-95, a major north-south thoroughfare. Commuting from the heart of the ZIP Code, particularly areas near Aberdeen Proving Ground, to healthcare facilities can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion. Rush hour, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, can dramatically extend travel times.

For example, a trip to University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health in Bel Air, a common destination for specialized care, could take approximately 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours, utilizing the MD-22 (Churchville Road) and then merging onto the I-95. However, during peak hours, this commute could easily balloon to 45 minutes or even an hour, placing an undue burden on individuals managing hypertension, requiring timely medication refills or regular check-ups.

Smaller roads like US-40 (Pulaski Highway) and MD-7 (Philadelphia Road) provide alternative routes, but they often experience their own traffic snarls and may not always offer the most direct path. The condition of these roads, including potholes and other hazards, can also influence travel times and the safety of the journey, especially for those with health conditions.

**Public Transit:**

Public transit in 21005 is primarily provided by the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) and offers limited options compared to larger metropolitan areas. The primary bus routes serving the area are the 1, 2, and 3. These routes connect Aberdeen Proving Ground with surrounding communities and, in some cases, offer connections to the MARC train service, which provides access to Baltimore and Washington D.C.

However, the frequency of these bus routes can be a significant barrier. Waiting times can be lengthy, and the routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and accessible seating, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor that becomes even more critical for those managing hypertension who might experience dizziness or other related symptoms.

The MARC Penn Line offers a more reliable and faster option for accessing healthcare in Baltimore City. The Aberdeen Station is located near the ZIP Code, offering a relatively easy connection to Baltimore's healthcare hubs. However, this requires a transfer to local transportation once arriving at Penn Station in Baltimore, adding to the overall travel time and complexity.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation solution, especially for those without personal vehicles. The availability of these services in 21005 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make them expensive. This financial burden can be a significant challenge for individuals on fixed incomes or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, like MedStar Mobile Healthcare or private ambulance companies, are available for individuals requiring assistance with non-emergency medical transportation. These services are specifically designed to accommodate patients with mobility limitations or those who need assistance during transport. However, they can be costly and may require pre-scheduling, which can be a barrier to accessing timely care.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score in 21005 is moderately impacted by the transportation landscape. While the presence of major highways like I-95 provides relatively quick access to healthcare facilities during off-peak hours, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion during peak times introduce challenges. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing services can be expensive.

For individuals managing hypertension, this translates to potential delays in accessing appointments, medication refills, and emergency care. The stress of navigating traffic or the financial burden of ride-sharing can also exacerbate hypertension symptoms. Therefore, the score is reduced by the limitations of transportation.

**Factors influencing the score:**

* **Traffic Congestion:** The impact of rush hour on drive times significantly affects healthcare access.
* **Public Transit Frequency:** Limited bus routes and infrequent service restrict accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing Costs:** Surge pricing can make ride-sharing services unaffordable for some.
* **ADA Compliance:** Ensuring accessible transportation options is critical for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** The distance to healthcare providers influences travel times and accessibility.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of bus routes, particularly those serving healthcare facilities.
* **Promote ride-sharing subsidies:** Explore programs that provide financial assistance for ride-sharing services for individuals with hypertension.
* **Enhance pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure:** Improve the safety and convenience of walking and cycling routes to healthcare facilities.
* **Encourage telemedicine:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments.
* **Community Partnerships:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation providers, and community organizations to improve healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the transportation landscape in 21005 to manage hypertension requires careful planning and consideration. While some options exist, the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic congestion, and the cost of ride-sharing services present challenges. For individuals moving to Aberdeen Proving Ground, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial for ensuring timely access to healthcare and maintaining optimal health. By addressing these challenges through strategic improvements in transportation and healthcare delivery, the Hypertension Score can be improved, leading to better health outcomes for the community.