21078, Havre De Grace, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21078, Havre De Grace, Maryland is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.24 percent of residents in 21078 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Harford Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.14 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Havre de Grace (ZIP Code 21078)

Considering a move to the charming waterfront town of Havre de Grace, Maryland (ZIP code 21078)? Beyond the picturesque views and historic charm, assessing your healthcare access is paramount, especially if you manage hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on the critical element of transportation to healthcare facilities, ensuring you can readily access necessary medical attention.

This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It aims to paint a realistic picture of navigating the healthcare landscape in Havre de Grace, helping you make an informed decision. Remember, timely access to healthcare is vital for managing hypertension effectively, and this analysis will help you understand your transportation options for appointments, medication refills, and emergencies.

**Drive Times: The Road to Healthcare**

The primary healthcare provider in Havre de Grace is University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health – Harford Memorial Hospital, a crucial point of reference. Accessing this facility by car is generally straightforward, but understanding potential bottlenecks is key.

From most residential areas within 21078, the drive to Harford Memorial Hospital typically involves using US Route 40 (Pulaski Highway) or MD Route 155 (Level Road). Expect a drive time of approximately 10-15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. Rush hour, especially weekday mornings and evenings, can increase this to 20-25 minutes.

Other healthcare options, such as specialist offices or urgent care facilities, might necessitate travel outside of Havre de Grace. Accessing facilities in Bel Air, MD, or even Baltimore City, can require navigating the I-95 corridor.

Traveling to Bel Air, approximately 20-30 minutes away, usually involves using MD Route 22 or I-95. The I-95 corridor, while offering faster travel times, can be prone to congestion, particularly during peak hours. Plan accordingly, factoring in potential delays.

For more specialized care in Baltimore City, the drive time can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the destination and traffic. This journey often involves using I-95 South, with potential for significant delays during rush hour. Consider the impact of such travel on your ability to manage hypertension effectively.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

Public transportation options in Havre de Grace are limited but present a viable alternative for some. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service, though routes and frequency are not as extensive as in more urban areas.

The primary bus route serving Havre de Grace is the MTA Route 16, which connects the town to Aberdeen and the MARC Penn Line train station. Route 16 operates with varying frequency throughout the day. While this route offers a connection to Aberdeen, it doesn't directly serve Harford Memorial Hospital.

Passengers utilizing Route 16 would need to disembark at a designated stop and either walk, use ride-sharing, or arrange for a transfer to reach the hospital. The walk from a bus stop to the hospital could be a factor, especially during inclement weather or for individuals with mobility challenges.

Accessibility is a crucial consideration. MTA buses are ADA-compliant, equipped with features such as ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, it is essential to confirm the availability of these features on specific routes and buses.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternatives to Consider**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Havre de Grace. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who prefer not to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing availability can vary depending on demand and the time of day. During peak hours or in areas with limited service, wait times may be longer. The cost of ride-sharing can also fluctuate based on demand and distance.

For individuals requiring medical transportation, several options are available. Medical transport services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare, specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with specific medical needs.

Another option is to utilize the services of local ambulance companies. These companies provide emergency and non-emergency medical transportation, including transportation to and from medical appointments.

**Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for 21078 considers the interplay of these transportation factors. A high score indicates excellent access to healthcare, while a lower score reflects potential challenges.

**Drive Time:** The relatively short drive to Harford Memorial Hospital earns a positive score. However, reliance on highways and potential traffic congestion during peak hours warrants consideration.

**Public Transit:** The limited bus service and the need for transfers to reach the hospital lower the score. While ADA compliance is a positive, the frequency and route coverage are not ideal.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides a safety net, increasing the score. These options can be particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or require assistance with transportation.

**Overall Assessment:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 21078 is moderate. While Havre de Grace offers convenient access to a primary healthcare facility, relying solely on driving can be challenging during peak hours. Public transit options are limited, but ride-sharing and medical transport services provide valuable alternatives.

**Recommendations:**

Before moving to Havre de Grace, assess your individual transportation needs. Consider factors such as your ability to drive, your reliance on public transit, and your need for specialized medical care.

If you have hypertension, proactively research the availability of healthcare providers and the transportation options to reach them. Familiarize yourself with bus routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

Plan your healthcare appointments strategically, factoring in potential travel times and traffic conditions. Consider scheduling appointments during off-peak hours to minimize travel time.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about moving to Havre de Grace and ensure that you can effectively manage your hypertension. Prioritizing access to healthcare is a crucial aspect of maintaining your well-being, and this assessment will help you navigate the healthcare landscape in your new community.