21130, Perryman, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21130, Perryman, Maryland is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 21130 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Hospital Center with a distance of 31.56 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Perryman, MD (ZIP Code 21130)

Perryman, Maryland, a quiet enclave nestled along the Bush River, presents a unique landscape for its residents. While the charm of this community is undeniable, the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, are crucial. This write-up delves into the transportation challenges faced by residents of ZIP Code 21130 in accessing healthcare, providing a "Hypertension Score" based on commute times and available options. This score will help potential residents understand the practicalities of living in Perryman and managing their health.

The Hypertension Score isn't a numerical value, but rather a holistic assessment of the transportation hurdles that might impact a resident's ability to regularly attend healthcare appointments. It considers the distance, mode of transportation, and potential delays, all of which can significantly affect a patient's adherence to their treatment plan. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for those moving to Perryman.

The primary concern for Perryman residents is the distance to comprehensive healthcare facilities. While the community itself offers some basic medical services, specialized care, including cardiology, endocrinology, and nephrology, often requires travel to larger hospitals and clinics located in neighboring cities like Bel Air, Baltimore, and Havre de Grace. This necessitates careful consideration of transportation options.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for residents of Perryman. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Interstate 95 (I-95) and US Route 40. Heading south on I-95 provides access to Baltimore, while heading north leads to healthcare facilities in Havre de Grace and Elkton. US Route 40 offers an alternative route, though it is often more congested, particularly during peak hours.

The drive time to the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health System in Bel Air, a major healthcare provider, can vary significantly depending on traffic. Under normal conditions, the journey via I-95 and MD-24 takes approximately 20-30 minutes. However, during rush hour, or due to accidents, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour. The unpredictability of traffic is a significant factor, especially for individuals with hypertension, who need to maintain a consistent schedule for medication and appointments.

Similarly, the drive to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, a renowned medical institution, is approximately 45 minutes to an hour via I-95, assuming minimal traffic. This journey, while offering access to world-class specialists, can be a considerable burden for residents requiring frequent visits. The added stress of navigating a busy highway and city traffic can exacerbate the condition of patients with hypertension.

Public transportation options are limited in Perryman. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly service the area with bus routes. This lack of public transit significantly impacts those who cannot or prefer not to drive, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who may not own a vehicle. This limitation creates a significant barrier to healthcare access for a segment of the population.

For individuals relying on public transportation, the closest options are typically found in Aberdeen or Edgewood, which are accessible by ride-share or taxi. From these locations, residents can access the MARC train, which provides service to Baltimore. However, the train schedules might not align with appointment times, requiring careful planning and potentially long wait times. The absence of ADA-accessible bus routes in the immediate vicinity further compounds the challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Perryman, offering a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-share services can also be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare or FirstCall Medical Transportation, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, ensuring safe and comfortable transport to and from appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or private transportation.

The "Hypertension Score" for Perryman, therefore, is moderately challenging. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, the reliance on highways with potential for traffic congestion introduces uncertainty and stress. The limited public transportation options and the cost of ride-sharing services create barriers for those without personal vehicles. The availability of medical transportation services provides a valuable, albeit costly, alternative for those with specific needs.

Moving to Perryman requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Potential residents, particularly those with hypertension or other chronic conditions, should factor in the commute times, the availability of transportation options, and the associated costs when making their decision. Planning ahead, exploring all available resources, and establishing a reliable transportation plan are crucial for ensuring consistent and timely access to healthcare.

Furthermore, the community could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded public transportation options, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, or supporting the development of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Perryman highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the transportation landscape to healthcare. While the community offers a peaceful environment, residents must be prepared to address the transportation challenges to maintain their health and well-being. This is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move to Perryman, especially those managing hypertension.