21718, Burkittsville, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21718, Burkittsville, Maryland is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.13 percent of residents in 21718 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 11.63 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21718 (Burkittsville, Maryland)**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for those managing hypertension, necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation options. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 21718, encompassing the charming town of Burkittsville, Maryland, and its surrounding areas. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical facilities, critical for consistent care and blood pressure management. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Burkittsville, as healthcare access is a significant quality-of-life factor.

The "Hypertension Score" considers drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all crucial components of healthcare access. The score reflects the overall accessibility and convenience of reaching medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare-related destinations. This is not merely about distance; it's about the practicalities of navigating the transportation landscape, especially for those with mobility limitations or who are reliant on others for assistance.

**Driving Dynamics:**

For residents of Burkittsville, the most common mode of transportation is personal vehicles. The primary routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating the network of highways and local roads. The journey to Frederick, the nearest city with a comprehensive range of healthcare services, typically involves traveling east on MD-180 (Jefferson Pike). This road connects to US-340, a major thoroughfare that provides access to Frederick.

Drive times to Frederick can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. During peak hours, delays are common, particularly on US-340 and the intersections along MD-180. The drive to Frederick's hospitals, such as Frederick Health Hospital, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Burkittsville. Other healthcare providers, including specialist offices and urgent care clinics, are scattered throughout Frederick and the surrounding areas, adding to the complexity of travel planning.

Accessing healthcare facilities in Hagerstown, to the west, involves traveling on US-40 or I-70. This route offers a different set of challenges, including potential delays due to construction or accidents. The drive to Hagerstown Regional Airport, which has a small hospital, is approximately 30-45 minutes. The drive to Frederick is slightly faster, but both require careful planning and consideration of traffic patterns.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in and around Burkittsville are limited. The primary provider is the Frederick County Transit (TransIT), offering bus routes that connect to Frederick and other nearby towns. However, the frequency of these routes is often infrequent, and the service area does not extend directly into Burkittsville. Residents relying on public transportation may need to travel to a designated pick-up location, which can add significant time to their commute.

TransIT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, to accommodate passengers with mobility limitations. However, the limited service frequency and the potential need for transfers can make public transportation a less-than-ideal option for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent medical appointments. The lack of direct routes and the reliance on transfers can also increase the overall travel time, potentially impacting the timeliness of medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. Ride-sharing can be a convenient option for those who do not drive or who prefer not to drive, but the cost can be a significant factor.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include door-to-door service and assistance with mobility. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transportation, and may require prior arrangements.

**Pharmacies and Healthcare Access:**

Access to pharmacies is another critical aspect of healthcare access. Burkittsville has limited pharmacy options, and residents often need to travel to Frederick or other nearby towns to fill prescriptions. The location of pharmacies and the ease of accessing them are essential for individuals managing hypertension, who require regular medication refills.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the availability of urgent care clinics and other healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance. The presence of these facilities can provide immediate care for unexpected health issues, reducing the need for lengthy travel to emergency rooms. The proximity of these facilities and the ease of access significantly impact the overall healthcare experience.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 21718 reflects a mixed picture of healthcare access. While driving provides the most direct route to healthcare facilities, traffic and distance can pose challenges. Public transportation is limited, and ride-sharing services may not always be readily available. Medical transport services offer a specialized solution, but at a higher cost.

For individuals considering moving to Burkittsville, a careful assessment of transportation needs is crucial. Those with hypertension should consider the time and effort required to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare-related destinations. The availability of reliable transportation is essential for maintaining consistent care and managing blood pressure effectively. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the healthcare accessibility of this charming, yet geographically isolated, community. The choice of where to live is personal, and access to healthcare should be a key factor in making this decision.