21561, Swanton, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21561, Swanton, Maryland is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.68 percent of residents in 21561 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.09 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Swanton, MD (ZIP Code 21561)

The crisp mountain air of Swanton, Maryland (ZIP Code 21561) beckons those seeking respite and a slower pace of life. But before packing your bags and dreaming of rural tranquility, consider a crucial factor: healthcare access. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for this area, focusing on the challenges and opportunities related to transportation and accessing medical care, particularly for those managing hypertension. Understanding these nuances is essential for informed decision-making, especially when contemplating a move.

Swanton, nestled in Garrett County, presents a unique geographical landscape. The rugged terrain and sparse population influence transportation options, directly impacting healthcare access. The Hypertension Score, in this context, reflects the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching medical appointments, pharmacies, and other vital healthcare services. This assessment considers drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

The primary arteries connecting Swanton to healthcare facilities are the highways and roads. US Route 219, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides the most direct route to larger towns like Oakland, the county seat, and beyond. Driving times to Oakland, where Garrett Regional Medical Center is located, are generally manageable, typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific location within 21561 and traffic conditions. However, during inclement weather, common in the mountains, these times can increase significantly, potentially delaying crucial medical attention.

Maryland Route 135, another significant road, offers access to the west and connects to Interstate 68. This route provides a link to Cumberland, Maryland, which has a wider range of specialized medical services. The drive to Cumberland can take upwards of an hour, representing a considerable time commitment, especially for those requiring frequent check-ups or experiencing a hypertensive crisis. Local roads, such as Swanton Road and Sang Run Road, further contribute to the transportation network within the ZIP code, but their winding nature and potential for icy conditions during winter can pose challenges.

Public transportation options in Swanton are limited. Garrett County Public Transportation (GCPT) provides some service, but its routes and schedules are constrained by the county's vast geographical area and limited resources. While GCPT aims to offer ADA-accessible vehicles, the frequency of service may not adequately meet the needs of individuals with hypertension, who often require regular appointments and prompt access to medication. Information on specific routes and schedules can be found on the Garrett County government website.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Garrett County, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in more urban areas. Availability can be particularly limited in Swanton, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. This reliance on ride-sharing can be costly and unpredictable, potentially creating barriers to healthcare access, especially for individuals with limited mobility or financial constraints.

Medical transport services are available in the area, catering specifically to patients needing assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services, often provided by private companies or through the healthcare system, can be invaluable for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. However, the availability of these services can vary, and advance booking is often required, which may not be feasible in emergency situations.

For individuals managing hypertension, timely access to healthcare is paramount. Regular blood pressure monitoring, medication adherence, and prompt medical attention in case of complications are crucial for managing the condition effectively. The Hypertension Score for Swanton, therefore, reflects the challenges associated with transportation and its impact on healthcare access. The score is influenced by the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited availability of public transportation, the variable presence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on medical transport options.

Moving to Swanton requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Prospective residents should assess their individual healthcare needs and evaluate the feasibility of accessing medical care given the available transportation options. Those with hypertension should consider the proximity of healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation, and the availability of support systems.

The challenges are not insurmountable. Planning ahead, utilizing available resources, and exploring alternative solutions can mitigate the transportation barriers. Residents can establish relationships with local healthcare providers, explore telehealth options for routine check-ups, and proactively arrange transportation for appointments.

The healthcare landscape in Swanton, MD, is a tapestry woven with threads of beauty and challenge. The beauty lies in the tranquility and the strong sense of community. The challenge resides in the transportation logistics and the impact on healthcare access. Understanding the Hypertension Score, considering the drive times, the public transit options, the ride-sharing possibilities, and the medical transport services, is the first step toward ensuring that healthcare access remains a priority, even in this serene mountain haven.