21705, Frederick, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21705, Frederick, Maryland is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 21705 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 3.29 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21705)

Considering a move to Frederick, Maryland, specifically ZIP code 21705? Beyond the charming historic district and vibrant community, a crucial factor in your decision should be healthcare access, particularly if you or a loved one manages hypertension. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" – a practical assessment of transportation options for reaching essential medical care, factoring in drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing availability. This score helps prospective residents understand the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, a critical element in managing hypertension effectively.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the geography of 21705. This ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Frederick City and surrounding areas, including residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, and access points to major roadways. Its location, nestled between the Catoctin Mountains and the Monocacy River, influences transportation dynamics.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Assessing drive times to healthcare providers is therefore paramount. The major arteries in 21705 are key. Route 15, a north-south highway, serves as a vital corridor. Driving south on Route 15, you'll swiftly reach Frederick Health Hospital, a primary healthcare provider. The drive, depending on traffic, usually takes around 10-15 minutes from central 21705.

US Route 40, the National Pike, offers another significant route, particularly for east-west travel. This road provides access to various medical offices and specialists. Driving east on US Route 40 can lead to urgent care facilities and other healthcare resources. The drive time varies, but generally, travel within the city limits is manageable, often taking under 20 minutes.

Frederick's road network, while generally efficient, can experience congestion during peak hours. Rush hour, particularly on Route 15, can significantly extend drive times. Therefore, when evaluating healthcare access, consider the potential impact of traffic on your ability to reach medical appointments.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City on Wheels**

Frederick County Transit (FCT) offers public transportation within the city and surrounding areas. FCT operates various bus routes, some of which provide direct or indirect access to healthcare facilities. Route 80, for example, often serves as a key route, connecting various parts of Frederick to the hospital and medical offices.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. FCT strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses. However, the frequency of service on some routes may be limited, potentially affecting the convenience of using public transit for regular medical appointments.

To effectively utilize public transit for healthcare access, you'll need to familiarize yourself with FCT's schedules and routes. Planning your trips in advance is crucial, factoring in potential delays and transfer times. While public transit offers a cost-effective alternative to driving, it requires careful planning and consideration of individual needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Healthcare Access**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Frederick. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, offering a convenient option, especially for those who do not drive or prefer not to drive.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. This can be a valuable option for those who require specialized assistance.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services enhances healthcare access in 21705. They provide flexibility and convenience, especially for individuals with limited mobility or those who do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost of these services should be factored into your overall healthcare budget.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

To arrive at a "Hypertension Score" for 21705, we must integrate these transportation factors. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension.

* **Drive Time:** The relatively short drive times to Frederick Health Hospital and other medical facilities contribute positively to the score. The efficiency of the road network and the availability of parking are also key factors.
* **Public Transit:** The availability of FCT bus routes, including those serving healthcare facilities, adds to the score. However, the frequency of service and the need for careful trip planning may slightly diminish the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability of Uber, Lyft, and medical transport services significantly enhances the score, providing convenient and accessible options.
* **Accessibility:** The ADA compliance of public transportation and the availability of accessible ride-sharing options are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, thus positively impacting the score.

Considering these factors, 21705 receives a reasonably favorable Hypertension Score. The combination of convenient drive times, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services creates a supportive environment for accessing healthcare. However, the score can be improved by increasing the frequency of public transit routes, especially during peak hours, and by promoting awareness of available medical transport options.

**Moving to Frederick: A Healthcare-Conscious Decision**

For individuals managing hypertension, understanding healthcare access is paramount. The Hypertension Score for 21705, while positive, should be considered alongside other factors when making a relocation decision. Consider your individual transportation needs, your comfort level with public transit, and your budget for ride-sharing or medical transport services.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether 21705 is the right fit for your healthcare needs. Remember that a proactive approach to healthcare access, including researching transportation options and understanding the local healthcare landscape, is essential for managing hypertension effectively.