21017, Belcamp, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21017, Belcamp, Maryland is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.68 percent of residents in 21017 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Umd Upper Chesapeake Medical Center with a distance of 6.46 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Belcamp, MD (ZIP Code 21017)

Belcamp, Maryland, nestled in Harford County, presents a unique landscape for residents managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access points within and around ZIP Code 21017, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment for individuals considering a move to this area, or those already residing here and seeking improved healthcare management. The score will consider factors like drive times, public transit options, and accessibility to medical facilities, all crucial elements in controlling blood pressure and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The cornerstone of navigating Belcamp is the automobile. The primary arteries for transportation are Interstate 95, or I-95, and the parallel US Route 40, known locally as Pulaski Highway. I-95 provides rapid north-south access, while Route 40 offers a more local, albeit often congested, alternative. For those living in the heart of Belcamp, getting to a primary care physician or specialist typically involves a short drive. However, the distance to specialized care, particularly cardiology or nephrology, can vary significantly.

Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic patterns. Peak hours, especially weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend travel times on both I-95 and Route 40. A trip to a primary care physician in Bel Air, just a few miles north, might take 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours, but could easily double during rush hour. Similarly, reaching Baltimore, with its concentration of specialized medical facilities, can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day and the specific destination.

Public transportation options in Belcamp are limited, which presents a challenge for those who do not drive or prefer not to. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates several bus routes that serve the area. Route 16, for example, offers service along Route 40, connecting Belcamp to Aberdeen and Edgewood. Route 16 also provides a connection to the MARC train, which travels to Baltimore and Washington, DC. However, the frequency of these routes can be a concern, especially during evenings and weekends.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration. MTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the public transit system can vary. Individuals with mobility limitations should thoroughly research the specific routes and stops relevant to their healthcare needs, ensuring they meet their requirements.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Belcamp and offer an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. Ride-sharing costs can also add up, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. This factor needs to be included in the overall healthcare transportation budget.

Medical transportation services provide a specialized option for individuals with mobility issues or other medical needs. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and others offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be booked in advance and provide a reliable way to get to and from medical appointments. However, these services often come at a higher cost than other transportation options.

Healthcare access is a critical component of the Hypertension Score. The proximity of primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals directly impacts the ease and speed with which residents can receive medical attention. Belcamp itself has a limited number of medical facilities. Residents often seek care in neighboring communities, such as Aberdeen, Bel Air, and Edgewood.

The University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health System operates hospitals and outpatient facilities in the surrounding area, including Upper Chesapeake Medical Center in Bel Air. This hospital provides a wide range of services, including cardiology, nephrology, and other specialties relevant to hypertension management. However, access to these facilities may require a drive, as discussed earlier.

The availability of pharmacies is also a factor in the Hypertension Score. Residents need convenient access to pharmacies to fill prescriptions and manage their medications. Belcamp has several pharmacies, including chain drugstores and independent pharmacies. The proximity of these pharmacies to residential areas and healthcare facilities is generally good.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Belcamp, MD (21017) is moderate. While the area offers good access to healthcare facilities in neighboring communities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The drive times, particularly during peak hours, can add stress and inconvenience, potentially impacting the management of hypertension. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative options, but these services come with additional costs.

For individuals considering a move to Belcamp, careful consideration should be given to their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who drive and are comfortable with commuting to healthcare providers in surrounding areas will likely find Belcamp a suitable location. However, individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and plan accordingly.

The "Hypertension Score" is a dynamic metric. Improvements in public transportation, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and the expansion of healthcare facilities in the immediate area could all contribute to a higher score in the future. Residents and prospective residents should continually assess their transportation needs and healthcare access options to ensure they can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The integration of these factors, from drive times on I-95 and Route 40 to the availability of ride-sharing services and the proximity of healthcare facilities, creates a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in Belcamp. This information empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, especially those considering moving to Belcamp. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to transportation and healthcare access, contributing to a healthier community.