21060, Glen Burnie, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21060, Glen Burnie, Maryland is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.50 percent of residents in 21060 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Baltimore Washington Medical Center with a distance of 2.11 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21060**

For individuals considering moving to Glen Burnie, Maryland (ZIP Code 21060), understanding healthcare access, particularly for managing hypertension, is crucial. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing medical care within this area, providing a framework for assessing the “Hypertension Score” – a measure of ease in reaching essential healthcare services.

Glen Burnie, a vibrant community, presents a diverse transportation environment. The efficient movement of people is vital for maintaining health, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The ability to quickly and reliably reach a physician, pharmacy, or specialist can significantly impact a patient's adherence to treatment plans and overall well-being.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in 21060 are the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), Ritchie Highway (MD-2), and Interstate 97. These highways offer varying levels of congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. Drive times to healthcare facilities, such as the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center (UM BWMC) and various clinics, fluctuate depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

Traveling south on MD-295 from Glen Burnie to UM BWMC can take approximately 15-25 minutes under normal conditions. However, rush hour can extend this to 30-45 minutes. Ritchie Highway (MD-2), a major north-south thoroughfare, provides another route, although it is often congested with local traffic. I-97 offers a faster, more direct route to some healthcare facilities, but can also experience significant backups.

For those without personal vehicles, the reliance on public transportation or ride-sharing services becomes more pronounced. This factor directly influences the Hypertension Score, as longer travel times and less reliable options can create barriers to care.

**Public Transportation:**

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service within 21060. Several routes serve the area, including the CityLink Blue, CityLink Green, and LocalLink routes. These buses offer varying levels of frequency and coverage, with some routes providing more direct access to healthcare facilities than others.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. All MTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the public transit system can vary depending on the specific route and location. The presence of ADA features is a positive factor, but the practical application of these features is paramount.

Travel times via public transit are generally longer than by car. A bus trip to UM BWMC from central Glen Burnie could take 30-60 minutes, depending on the route and transfer requirements. The frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, can also impact accessibility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in 21060. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation, particularly for those who may have mobility limitations or prefer door-to-door service. Ride-sharing can be a valuable tool for accessing healthcare, but costs can be a significant factor.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide specialized transportation for individuals with specific needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. They can be particularly beneficial for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments. However, these services may require advance booking and can also be subject to cost considerations.

**Pharmacy Access and Considerations:**

Access to pharmacies is a critical component of hypertension management. Glen Burnie has numerous pharmacies, including national chains and independent pharmacies, providing convenient access to medications. The proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and healthcare facilities is a positive factor.

Drive-thru pharmacies are a convenient option for picking up prescriptions. However, the hours of operation, particularly for 24-hour pharmacies, should be considered.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score for 21060 considers several factors:

* **Drive Times:** Shorter drive times to healthcare facilities and pharmacies are favorable.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of public transit routes are important.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability, cost, and reliability of these services.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Proximity of pharmacies, availability of drive-thru services, and hours of operation.

A higher score indicates easier access to healthcare services, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. Individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate these factors when considering moving to Glen Burnie.

**Conclusion:**

The transportation landscape in 21060 presents a mixed bag for individuals managing hypertension. While the road network offers reasonable access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion and reliance on personal vehicles can pose challenges. Public transportation provides an alternative, but travel times can be longer. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer additional options, but costs and availability must be considered.

For those considering moving to Glen Burnie, a thorough assessment of these factors is essential. The Hypertension Score, based on these elements, can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall quality of life. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical care is crucial for managing hypertension effectively. Moving to Glen Burnie requires careful consideration of transportation and its impact on healthcare access.