21610, Betterton, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21610, Betterton, Maryland is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.15 percent of residents in 21610 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Ctr At Chestertown with a distance of 10.42 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21610**

The quaint waterfront town of Betterton, Maryland, nestled within ZIP Code 21610, presents a unique challenge when evaluating healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, a 'Hypertension Score' write-up, considers the critical link between transportation and the ability to receive timely medical attention. For residents, the journey to manage their health, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension, is inextricably tied to the available transportation options.

Betterton's location, situated on the northern shore of the Sassafras River, offers a picturesque lifestyle, yet it also introduces complexities in accessing healthcare. The primary focus is on the practicalities of reaching medical facilities, considering drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. A successful 'Hypertension Score' must account for the nuances of these transportation methods, providing a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

The most common mode of transportation in this area is the personal vehicle. Driving is the primary means of accessing healthcare facilities. From Betterton, the most direct route to healthcare often involves traversing Maryland Route 213 (MD-213), a crucial north-south artery. This road provides access to Chestertown, the nearest town with a hospital and various medical practices. The drive to the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown, a vital healthcare hub, is approximately a 20-minute journey under normal traffic conditions.

However, traffic can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or seasonal events. The route may also involve navigating local roads, such as Quaker Neck Road, which can be subject to delays. The distance is manageable, but the reliability of travel time is a crucial factor in the 'Hypertension Score'. Delays can be detrimental for individuals requiring immediate medical attention or regular check-ups.

Further afield, healthcare options exist in larger cities like Wilmington, Delaware, and Baltimore, Maryland. These destinations offer specialized care and a broader range of medical services. However, the commute to these locations is significantly longer. Travel to Wilmington, generally via MD-213 and US Route 301, can take upwards of an hour, and Baltimore, accessible via MD-213, US Route 301, and eventually I-95, can take over two hours. These extended travel times can pose significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension, potentially delaying access to essential care.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 21610 are limited. Kent County, where Betterton is located, offers a small public transit system, but its routes and schedules are not designed to prioritize healthcare access. The availability of public transit is not a reliable option for the majority of residents, especially those with mobility limitations or the need for frequent medical appointments.

The system's routes are infrequent and do not directly connect Betterton with Chestertown's medical facilities. The lack of ADA-accessible vehicles on all routes further restricts accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This severely limits the 'Hypertension Score' for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can be variable. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier for individuals on fixed incomes or those requiring frequent medical transportation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar Mobile Healthcare and other regional providers serve the area. These services provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, offering door-to-door service and assistance for individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services come at a cost, and their availability may require advance booking, which may not be ideal for urgent healthcare needs.

**The 'Hypertension Score' Implications**

The 'Hypertension Score' for 21610 must reflect the reality of healthcare access in Betterton. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transportation and variable ride-sharing options, creates a mixed bag. The proximity to Chestertown offers reasonable drive times, but the lack of alternatives poses challenges for those without access to a car.

The score must consider the impact of extended travel times to more distant healthcare providers, especially for those requiring specialized care. The limited public transit and the reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport services, which can be expensive and have scheduling constraints, further complicate the picture.

For individuals considering moving to Betterton, the 'Hypertension Score' should serve as a vital piece of information. Those with hypertension or other chronic conditions must carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. The score should emphasize the importance of having a reliable means of transportation or planning for alternative arrangements.

**Factors to Consider**

Several factors influence the 'Hypertension Score'. The individual's health status, the frequency of medical appointments, and the availability of support networks all play a role. The score should also consider the impact of weather conditions, which can affect travel times and the availability of ride-sharing services.

The presence of family members or friends who can provide transportation is a significant advantage. The availability of telehealth services, which allow for remote consultations and monitoring, can also mitigate some of the transportation challenges. The 'Hypertension Score' must account for these factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Betterton**

The 'Hypertension Score' for 21610 reflects a community with both advantages and disadvantages regarding healthcare access. While the proximity to Chestertown provides a reasonable commute, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but their cost and availability must be considered.

For individuals managing hypertension, careful planning and consideration of transportation options are crucial. Moving to Betterton requires a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility, weighing the benefits of the community's charm against the practicalities of reaching medical facilities. The 'Hypertension Score' serves as a tool to guide this assessment, ensuring that residents can effectively manage their health and receive the care they need.