21155, Upperco, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21155, Upperco, Maryland is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.85 percent of residents in 21155 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carroll Hospital Center with a distance of 9.65 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Upperco, MD (ZIP Code 21155)**

The pursuit of optimal health, especially managing hypertension, requires consistent access to healthcare. For residents of Upperco, Maryland (ZIP Code 21155), the ease and efficiency of transportation significantly impact this access. This analysis explores the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment for this community. The score considers the time, cost, and convenience of reaching medical facilities, vital factors for individuals managing high blood pressure.

Upperco, a charming rural community nestled in Baltimore County, presents a unique transportation landscape. While the area offers a tranquil environment, its relative remoteness poses challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The availability of diverse transportation modes is critical for residents to receive timely medical attention, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up aims to illuminate the realities of healthcare transportation in Upperco, providing insights for residents and potential newcomers.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of transportation in Upperco is the personal vehicle. Driving to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas typically involves navigating a network of local roads and highways. The major thoroughfare serving the area is **Maryland Route 30 (Hanover Pike)**, which provides access to various healthcare providers. The commute time to these facilities varies depending on the specific destination and the time of day.

For example, a drive to a primary care physician's office in Reisterstown, a common destination for healthcare, might take approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 30 and **Maryland Route 140 (Reisterstown Road)**. Accessing hospitals like Northwest Hospital in Randallstown could take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on **Interstate 795**. Traveling to facilities in Baltimore City, such as Johns Hopkins Hospital, could take over an hour, particularly during peak commuting hours, requiring travel on **Interstate 83** or **Interstate 695**.

The condition of the roads and the frequency of traffic congestion significantly impact drive times. Residents must factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments or seeking urgent care. The availability of reliable transportation is crucial for individuals managing hypertension, as timely access to medication refills, check-ups, and emergency care is essential.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in Upperco are limited. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly serve the immediate area with bus routes. Residents who rely on public transit may need to travel to nearby towns like Hampstead or Reisterstown to access MTA bus routes.

The closest bus route, number 94, runs along **Hanover Pike (Route 30)**, providing access to the Reisterstown Plaza. This route operates with limited frequency, especially on weekends, potentially hindering access to healthcare appointments. The bus system does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, offering a crucial service for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the extended travel times and the necessity of transfers can pose significant challenges for those managing hypertension, who may require frequent medical visits.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Upperco, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in response to high demand. The reliability of ride-sharing for medical appointments is subject to driver availability and potential delays.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, can provide a more specialized solution. These services often offer door-to-door transportation and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score**

The "Hypertension Score" for Upperco reflects the cumulative impact of transportation options on healthcare access. This score considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-share reliability, and the availability of medical transportation services.

Given the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation, the Hypertension Score for Upperco is moderately affected. The score reflects the fact that residents have access to healthcare facilities, but the transportation options present challenges in terms of time, cost, and convenience.

**Moving to Upperco and Healthcare Considerations**

Individuals considering moving to Upperco, especially those with hypertension or other chronic conditions, should carefully evaluate the transportation options available. Assessing the proximity to healthcare providers, the feasibility of using public transit or ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation options is critical.

Prospective residents should also consider the potential impact of traffic congestion and the need to factor in travel time when scheduling appointments. Understanding the transportation landscape will help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can access the care they require.

**Conclusion**

The transportation landscape in Upperco presents both opportunities and challenges for healthcare access. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options can impact the ease and efficiency of accessing care. The Hypertension Score for Upperco reflects the need for careful consideration of transportation options, particularly for individuals managing high blood pressure. By understanding the available options and planning accordingly, residents can effectively navigate the transportation challenges and ensure they receive the timely and consistent healthcare they need.