21237, Rosedale, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21237, Rosedale, Maryland is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.92 percent of residents in 21237 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Franklin Square Medical Center with a distance of 1.04 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 21237

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up explores the landscape of healthcare access within ZIP code 21237, focusing on transportation options and their impact on a hypothetical "Hypertension Score." This score, though not a formal medical metric, represents the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments, factoring in travel time, mode of transport, and accessibility. The goal is to paint a clear picture for someone considering moving to Rosedale, a community largely encompassed by 21237, and needing to manage their hypertension.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, the ability to get to the doctor. For residents of 21237, this often means navigating the complex network of Baltimore's roads. Driving remains a primary mode of transportation. The major arteries are the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), the Pulaski Highway (US-40), and the Belair Road (MD-147). Drive times to medical facilities vary greatly depending on the location within the ZIP code, the destination, and the ever-present Baltimore traffic. Morning and evening commutes can significantly extend travel times, making punctuality for appointments a challenge.

The I-695 offers relatively swift access to facilities located around the perimeter of the city, but congestion can be severe, especially near the exits. US-40, a major commercial corridor, provides direct access to some clinics and hospitals, yet the stop-and-go nature of the traffic can be frustrating. Belair Road, while offering a more direct route to some healthcare providers, is often burdened with local traffic and can be particularly slow during peak hours.

Public transportation, provided by the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA), offers an alternative, albeit with its own set of challenges. Several bus routes serve 21237. The Number 19 bus travels along Belair Road, the Number 15 provides access to the east side of the city, and the Number 23 serves the northern portion of the ZIP code. These routes can connect residents to major hospitals like MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, bus schedules, particularly on weekends and evenings, can be infrequent, and the overall travel time can be considerably longer than driving.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. The MTA strives to ensure its buses are accessible to individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility challenges. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts. However, the availability of accessible infrastructure at bus stops varies, and the overall journey can still be physically demanding for some individuals. This factor significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score" for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, present another option. These services offer door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate bus schedules or parking challenges. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of these services can also fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less densely populated areas. This adds a layer of uncertainty to the "Hypertension Score" calculation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available in the area. Companies like Logisticare and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transportation, often covering the cost through insurance. These services provide door-to-door transport, often with trained drivers who can assist patients with mobility issues. The availability and scheduling of these services, however, can vary, and advance booking is usually required.

The "Hypertension Score" for residents of 21237 is therefore multifaceted. For those with personal vehicles, the score might be relatively high, but subject to the vagaries of traffic. Public transportation, while more affordable, can significantly increase travel time and present accessibility challenges. Ride-sharing offers convenience but comes with a financial burden. Medical transportation services provide specialized support but require careful planning.

Moving to Rosedale, within the 21237 ZIP code, necessitates a careful evaluation of these transportation options. Individuals with hypertension must prioritize consistent access to medical care. This includes regular check-ups, medication management, and potential diagnostic tests. The choice of where to live and how to get to the doctor directly impacts the ability to manage their health.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is another important factor. While 21237 is not densely packed with medical providers, it is within reasonable distance of several major hospitals and clinics. The location of these facilities relative to a potential residence in Rosedale will significantly influence the "Hypertension Score." The closer the facility, the better.

Consider the impact of traffic on the "Hypertension Score." Baltimore traffic is notorious, and commute times can vary dramatically. Choosing a residence close to major roadways, but also considering the potential for congestion, is important.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number. It evolves based on individual needs, financial constraints, and the availability of transportation resources. For someone with limited mobility, the score might be lower due to the challenges of public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing. For someone with a reliable vehicle, the score might be higher, but still affected by traffic delays.

Ultimately, the best way to improve the "Hypertension Score" is to proactively address the transportation challenges. This might involve exploring different transportation options, planning appointments during off-peak hours, and utilizing available resources like medical transportation services. The ability to navigate the healthcare landscape in 21237 directly impacts the health and well-being of its residents.

The decision to move to Rosedale, or any part of 21237, requires a thorough assessment of healthcare access. This assessment must consider not only the availability of medical facilities but also the practicalities of transportation. By understanding the complexities of transportation options, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure they can effectively manage their hypertension and other health conditions. The "Hypertension Score" is a reminder that healthcare access is not just about having insurance; it's about having the means to get to the doctor.