21037, Edgewater, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21037, Edgewater, Maryland is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.65 percent of residents in 21037 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Luminis Health J Kent Mcnew Family Medical Center with a distance of 4.27 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Edgewater, MD (ZIP Code 21037)

Understanding the challenges of accessing healthcare is crucial, especially for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options within ZIP code 21037 (Edgewater, Maryland), focusing on how these options impact healthcare access for individuals with hypertension. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the landscape for those seeking medical attention in this community. If you are *moving to Edgewater*, this information is vital.

The ability to consistently and reliably reach medical appointments is paramount for managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits are all critical components of effective care. The availability and efficiency of *transportation* directly influence an individual's ability to adhere to their treatment plan, thus impacting their overall health outcomes. We'll consider the practical realities of getting to various healthcare facilities, from primary care physicians to specialized clinics.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

Edgewater, Maryland, is strategically positioned, offering relatively easy access to various healthcare providers. However, drive times can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic patterns. Navigating the roadways is the most common mode of *transportation*.

The primary arteries serving Edgewater are Route 2 (Solomons Island Road) and Route 50. Route 2, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides access to Annapolis and the surrounding areas. During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, Route 2 can experience significant congestion. Expect travel times to nearby medical facilities in Annapolis to increase substantially.

Route 50, a major east-west highway, offers a faster route to facilities further afield, including those in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. However, this highway also experiences heavy traffic, especially during rush hour and on weekends. The distance to healthcare facilities in these areas necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Smaller, local roads like Central Avenue and Mayo Road connect residential areas to Route 2 and Route 50. These roads can be less congested but may involve more stop-and-go traffic, adding to overall travel time. Consider the specific location of your chosen healthcare provider and factor in potential traffic delays when scheduling appointments.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus Routes**

For individuals without personal vehicles or those seeking an alternative to driving, public transit offers a valuable *transportation* option. The Annapolis Transit system provides bus service within the city limits, and the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) offers regional bus routes that serve Edgewater.

The primary MTA route serving Edgewater is the Route 210, which travels along Route 2, connecting Annapolis to Baltimore. This route offers access to several healthcare facilities along its path. However, the frequency of service can vary, and travel times can be extended due to multiple stops and potential traffic delays.

The Annapolis Transit system, while primarily focused on the city, can provide connections to healthcare facilities within Annapolis. Careful planning is required to utilize both systems effectively. ADA-accessible buses are available on both MTA and Annapolis Transit routes, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, be sure to check the specific route schedules and accessibility features prior to your appointment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand *transportation* to and from healthcare appointments. Availability and pricing can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door *transportation*, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport providers operate in the Edgewater area, including FirstCall Medical Transportation and Annapolis Medical Transport. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs.

**Healthcare Access: Location, Location, Location**

The location of healthcare facilities relative to your residence is a critical factor in determining *healthcare access*. Edgewater itself has a limited number of primary care physicians and specialists. Residents often need to travel to nearby Annapolis or even further afield to access the full range of healthcare services.

Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC), located in Annapolis, is a major healthcare provider offering a wide array of services, including emergency care, specialized clinics, and surgical procedures. Accessing AAMC from Edgewater typically involves a drive along Route 2, with travel times varying depending on traffic.

Other healthcare providers, such as specialists and outpatient clinics, are scattered throughout the region. Researching the location of your chosen providers and assessing the *transportation* options to reach them is crucial for effective healthcare management.

**Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" is not a formal metric but rather a holistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities for individuals with hypertension in accessing healthcare within a specific geographic area. In the context of Edgewater (21037), the score would consider factors like:

* **Drive Times:** The average time required to reach primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency care facilities, factoring in peak-hour traffic.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, reliability, and ADA accessibility of public transit routes serving healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** The distance to and availability of various healthcare providers within and around Edgewater.
* **Individual Mobility:** The individual's ability to drive, use public transit, or utilize other *transportation* options.

A lower score would indicate greater ease of access to healthcare, while a higher score would reflect greater challenges. This assessment allows individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, especially if they are *moving to Edgewater*.

**Conclusion: Planning for Your Health**

Navigating the *transportation* landscape in Edgewater, Maryland, requires careful planning and consideration. While the area offers a range of options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing, the specific needs of individuals with hypertension must be taken into account.

By understanding the drive times, public transit routes, and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, individuals can proactively plan their healthcare appointments. This proactive approach is crucial for ensuring consistent access to care, adhering to treatment plans, and ultimately, managing hypertension effectively. If you are *moving to Edgewater*, this information is vital to your well-being.