21053, Freeland, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21053, Freeland, Maryland is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.66 percent of residents in 21053 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carroll Hospital Center with a distance of 17.41 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21053

The quest for accessible healthcare, especially for individuals managing hypertension, becomes a complex equation when factoring in transportation. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP code 21053 (Freeland, Maryland) to assess its impact on healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflective of the challenges and opportunities residents face. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Freeland and seeking quality hypertension care.

The primary arteries of transportation in 21053 are Interstate 83 (I-83), serving as the major north-south corridor, and Maryland Route 138 (Gunpowder Road), providing east-west connectivity. Local roads like Freeland Road, Troyer Road, and Black Rock Road weave through the community, offering access to residential areas and local businesses. The presence of I-83 is a double-edged sword. While it offers relatively quick access to Baltimore and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, for specialized care, it can also contribute to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, potentially delaying critical healthcare appointments.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial component of our Hypertension Score. The closest urgent care facilities are located in Hampstead, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via MD-30. For primary care physicians, residents can find practices in nearby towns like Monkton (10-15 minutes) and Sparks (20-25 minutes). However, access to specialized cardiology services, crucial for hypertension management, often necessitates a longer commute. The University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center in Towson, a major healthcare provider with cardiology departments, is roughly a 30-45 minute drive via I-83, depending on traffic. Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, offering even more specialized care, can take up to an hour or more during rush hour.

Public transit options in 21053 are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly serve Freeland with fixed-route bus services. This lack of public transportation significantly hinders healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive, particularly seniors and those with disabilities. This deficiency directly impacts the Hypertension Score, as it restricts independent mobility and increases reliance on alternative, potentially less reliable, transportation methods.

For those unable to drive or lacking access to public transit, ride-share services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative. However, ride-share availability in Freeland can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-share services can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-share becomes a critical factor in the Hypertension Score, as inconsistent availability and high costs can lead to missed appointments and compromised healthcare adherence.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies like CareRide and Senior Transportation Services offer door-to-door transportation, often with wheelchair accessibility and trained drivers. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. However, availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is often required. The presence of these services, while beneficial, doesn't fully compensate for the lack of public transit, and their limitations are reflected in the Hypertension Score.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of existing infrastructure is another important consideration. While ride-share services and medical transportation often provide accessible vehicles, the availability of accessible routes and facilities at healthcare locations is crucial. This includes accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and accessible examination rooms. A comprehensive assessment of ADA compliance at local healthcare facilities is essential for a complete Hypertension Score.

The overall Hypertension Score for 21053 is negatively impacted by the limited public transit options and the potential for long drive times to specialized care. While ride-share and medical transportation services offer alternatives, their availability, cost, and reliability can be inconsistent. The score is further influenced by the need to assess the ADA accessibility of healthcare facilities and the potential for traffic congestion on I-83.

For individuals considering moving to Freeland, this analysis underscores the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. Those with hypertension should prioritize proximity to primary care physicians and consider the commute time to specialized cardiology services. Exploring the availability and cost of ride-share services and medical transportation is also crucial.

The Hypertension Score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the practical realities of accessing healthcare in a specific geographical area. It highlights the importance of considering transportation infrastructure, public transit options, and the availability of alternative transportation services when evaluating the suitability of a location for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The score emphasizes the need for proactive planning and a clear understanding of the transportation landscape to ensure consistent and timely access to essential healthcare services.