21154, Street, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21154, Street, Maryland is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.04 percent of residents in 21154 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md St Joseph Medical Center with a distance of 22.98 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21154

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access within ZIP code 21154, a critical aspect of overall well-being, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This analysis, the “Hypertension Score,” considers the challenges and opportunities presented by the available modes of **transportation**, offering insights into the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical appointments, particularly for those managing hypertension. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access** for those living in or **moving to** this area.

The primary artery for vehicular **transportation** in 21154 is Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south thoroughfare. This highway, however, is notorious for its congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. Residents relying on personal vehicles for **healthcare access** must factor in potential delays when planning trips to medical facilities. Other key roads include Route 152, which offers a more local route and can be a viable alternative, depending on the destination and traffic conditions. Additionally, local roads like Belair Road and Joppa Road provide access to various healthcare providers, but their smaller capacity can lead to bottlenecks.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns. A routine checkup at a clinic a few miles away on Belair Road could take 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours. However, the same trip could easily stretch to 30-45 minutes during rush hour. Accessing larger hospitals located further afield, like those in Baltimore City, via I-95, can be significantly impacted by traffic, potentially extending travel times to an hour or more. This variability in travel time underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration of alternative routes.

Public **transportation** options in 21154, while present, are limited. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates bus routes that serve the area. The primary routes that could be relevant for **healthcare access** are likely to be Route 9, Route 12, and Route 16. However, these routes often have infrequent service, especially during evenings and weekends. This can make it challenging for residents to schedule appointments and return home promptly. Furthermore, the coverage area of these routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, necessitating additional walking or a transfer to another bus.

The availability of ADA-accessible features on MTA buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. All MTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the frequency of service and the potential for delays can still pose challenges for those relying on public **transportation**. Planning trips in advance and allowing ample time for travel are essential strategies.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative mode of **transportation**. These services provide on-demand rides, which can be particularly convenient for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or who prefer not to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing, which occurs during periods of high demand, can further inflate costs, making ride-sharing less accessible for some residents.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies like First Transit and LogistiCare offer non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services. These services are often covered by Medicaid and other insurance plans for eligible individuals. However, eligibility requirements and the need to schedule rides in advance can limit their flexibility. Availability of these services can vary, and residents should investigate their eligibility and the specific terms of coverage.

The **healthcare access** landscape in 21154 is further shaped by the geographical distribution of healthcare providers. While there are local clinics and medical practices within the ZIP code, residents may need to travel to larger hospitals or specialized care facilities located outside the immediate area. This necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** options and the associated travel times. The location of pharmacies, diagnostic centers, and other support services also influences the overall **healthcare access** picture.

For individuals **moving to** 21154, understanding the **transportation** challenges and opportunities is crucial. Prospective residents should research the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of public **transportation**, and the cost of ride-sharing services. Assessing the potential impact of traffic congestion on commute times is also essential. This information will allow them to make informed decisions about their **healthcare access** needs.

The "Hypertension Score" is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the lived experience of individuals managing their health in this community. It considers the interplay of factors such as distance to healthcare providers, the reliability of **transportation** options, and the affordability of various modes of travel. The score, therefore, serves as a tool to help residents understand the challenges and opportunities they face when accessing healthcare services.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for 21154 would be moderately challenging. While the area benefits from the presence of major highways and ride-sharing services, the limitations of public **transportation**, the potential for traffic congestion, and the cost of ride-sharing services create barriers to **healthcare access** for some residents. This score highlights the need for continued efforts to improve **transportation** options, expand the availability of affordable medical **transportation** services, and ensure that healthcare facilities are easily accessible to all members of the community.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges is particularly pronounced for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Regular medical appointments, medication refills, and lifestyle modifications are essential for managing hypertension effectively. Any impediment to these essential services can have a detrimental effect on patient outcomes. Therefore, understanding and addressing the **transportation** barriers to **healthcare access** is paramount for promoting the health and well-being of the residents of 21154.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for 21154 provides a comprehensive assessment of the **transportation** environment and its impact on **healthcare access**. While the area offers some advantages, the challenges associated with traffic congestion, limited public **transportation**, and the cost of ride-sharing services create hurdles for residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions. Addressing these challenges through improved **transportation** infrastructure, expanded medical **transportation** services, and strategic planning will be crucial to ensure equitable **healthcare access** for all residents of 21154, especially those **moving to** the area.