21767, Maugansville, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21767, Maugansville, Maryland is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.97 percent of residents in 21767 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meritus Medical Center with a distance of 6.33 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Maugansville (ZIP Code 21767)

The journey to manage hypertension, a silent but significant threat to health, often begins with understanding access to care. In the rural landscape of Maugansville, Maryland (ZIP Code 21767), this journey is inextricably linked to transportation. This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare resources, specifically focusing on factors relevant to individuals managing hypertension, considering the practicalities of getting to and from appointments. We will explore the transportation options available, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately contribute to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary healthcare.

Maugansville, nestled in Washington County, offers a blend of residential tranquility and agricultural charm. However, its location presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The community's reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the geographical spread of medical facilities necessitate a careful examination of transportation options. For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and potentially specialized care is paramount. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape directly impacts their ability to adhere to treatment plans and maintain their health.

The primary mode of transportation in Maugansville is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The major arteries serving the area include Interstate 81 (I-81), a north-south corridor, and U.S. Route 11, running parallel to I-81. State Route 40, a significant east-west route, provides access to Hagerstown and other surrounding communities. Driving times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the specific location. A trip to Meritus Medical Center, the largest hospital in the county, located in Hagerstown, typically takes 15-20 minutes via I-81 or Route 40, depending on traffic conditions. Smaller clinics and physician offices within Hagerstown or surrounding towns like Williamsport or Smithsburg might be reachable within 10-15 minutes. However, for those without a car, or those with mobility limitations, these drive times pose a significant barrier.

Public transportation options in Washington County are limited. The primary provider is the Washington County Transit (WCT), offering bus routes throughout the county. However, service frequency and route coverage in Maugansville and the surrounding rural areas are not extensive. Route 11, which runs through Hagerstown and passes near Maugansville, is a potential option, but schedules are often infrequent, and the routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. The WCT website provides detailed route maps and schedules. The lack of frequent service and the need for transfers to reach many medical facilities can significantly increase travel time and inconvenience, particularly for those with hypertension who may experience fatigue or other health-related limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hagerstown area, offering another transportation alternative. However, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing provides a convenient option for some, it may not be a sustainable or affordable solution for all residents of Maugansville managing hypertension. Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services, such as First Call Ambulance, often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. However, these services may require prior scheduling and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

For individuals considering moving to Maugansville, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The proximity to major highways, such as I-81, provides relatively easy access to healthcare facilities in Hagerstown. However, the limitations of public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing services need to be carefully considered. Individuals with hypertension should assess their ability to drive or have access to a personal vehicle. Proximity to a bus route, though the service is limited, could be a deciding factor.

The "Hypertension Score" for Maugansville, considering transportation factors, would be moderate. While the area benefits from relatively short drive times to healthcare facilities for those with personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transportation options and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services create barriers for some residents. The score would be influenced by the individual's access to a vehicle, their ability to drive, and their financial capacity to utilize alternative transportation methods.

Ultimately, managing hypertension effectively in Maugansville requires proactive planning and a clear understanding of the available transportation resources. Individuals should familiarize themselves with the WCT routes and schedules, explore the availability of ride-sharing services, and consider the potential need for medical transport services. Regular communication with healthcare providers about transportation challenges and the availability of telehealth options can also help mitigate the impact of transportation limitations. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a critical factor in maintaining health and well-being in this charming but geographically challenging community.