21520, Accident, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21520, Accident, Maryland is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.87 percent of residents in 21520 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 15.51 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21520

Accident, Maryland, nestled in the embrace of Garrett County, presents a unique set of challenges when considering healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, coupled with the specific needs of residents in ZIP code 21520, necessitates a thorough examination of the transportation landscape. This analysis, focused on the crucial factor of hypertension management, aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency of accessing vital medical care. We'll consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, all critical elements influencing a resident's ability to manage their health.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the time it takes to reach essential healthcare facilities. For individuals managing hypertension, timely access to medication refills, routine check-ups, and potential emergency care is paramount. The primary arteries of transportation in and out of Accident are the roadways. Route 219, a vital north-south artery, provides the most direct route to Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland, the nearest hospital.

Driving from the heart of Accident to Oakland, a distance of approximately 15 miles, typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. However, this estimate can fluctuate significantly during peak hours or in inclement weather, potentially impacting the timely delivery of care. The drive is generally straightforward, but the winding nature of Route 219, particularly during the winter months, can pose challenges for those with mobility issues or who are less confident drivers.

Alternative routes exist, but they often add considerable travel time. For instance, taking Route 495 to Route 50, then connecting to I-68, would eventually lead to Garrett Regional Medical Center. This route, while potentially offering a more direct path during certain times, is significantly longer, adding an hour or more to the travel time. The availability of reliable transportation becomes a critical factor in managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

Public transit options in Accident and the surrounding areas are limited. Garrett County Transportation provides bus services, but the routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the needs of the general population, not necessarily the specific demands of healthcare access. The frequency of these buses is limited, and the routes often don't align with the schedules of medical appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, crucial for individuals with mobility impairments, is not guaranteed on all routes. This limitation poses a significant barrier for those who cannot drive or have difficulty navigating other forms of transportation. The lack of readily accessible public transit highlights the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for transportation-related stress, which can exacerbate hypertension.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Accident and the surrounding areas. The availability of these services is often sporadic, and wait times can be considerable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. This lack of readily available ride-sharing options further underscores the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare.

Medical transport services are available, but they are primarily designed for patients who require specialized care or have significant mobility limitations. These services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are often reserved for specific situations, such as transfers to specialized facilities or appointments for dialysis or other chronic conditions. The cost of these services can also be substantial, adding to the financial strain of managing hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 21520, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing, and the specialized nature of medical transport services all contribute to a relatively low score. This score indicates that residents of Accident, Maryland, face significant challenges in accessing timely and affordable healthcare, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The stress of navigating these transportation hurdles can, in itself, negatively impact blood pressure control. The constant worry about getting to appointments on time, the financial burden of transportation costs, and the potential for delays all contribute to a heightened state of anxiety, which can worsen hypertension.

Moving to Accident, or residing there, necessitates careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Individuals with hypertension should proactively assess their transportation options and develop strategies to ensure reliable access to healthcare. This might involve establishing relationships with local transportation providers, exploring options for telehealth appointments, or relying on family and friends for assistance.

The lack of readily available transportation options underscores the need for community-based solutions. Increased investment in public transit, with a focus on routes that directly serve healthcare facilities, could significantly improve healthcare access. Partnerships between healthcare providers and local transportation agencies could also help to coordinate transportation services for patients.

Furthermore, the expansion of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with their doctors remotely, could mitigate some of the transportation challenges. However, telehealth requires reliable internet access, which is not always available in rural areas like Accident. Addressing the digital divide is, therefore, another crucial step in improving healthcare access.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 21520 reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a complex and often stressful transportation landscape. Addressing these challenges through community-based solutions, expanded telehealth services, and increased investment in transportation infrastructure is crucial for improving healthcare access and supporting the health and well-being of residents in Accident, Maryland.