21779, Rohrersville, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21779, Rohrersville, Maryland is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.06 percent of residents in 21779 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meritus Medical Center with a distance of 14.81 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rohrersville (ZIP Code 21779)

Rohrersville, Maryland (ZIP code 21779), a charming community nestled in the Catoctin Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, providing a "Hypertension Score" based on the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services. For those considering moving to Rohrersville, understanding these factors is crucial for proactive healthcare management.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a numerical value but rather a comprehensive assessment of the transportation options available, considering factors like travel time, cost, accessibility, and the specific needs of individuals with hypertension. This score aims to provide a realistic picture of the healthcare journey for residents of Rohrersville.

**The Road to Care: Driving Dynamics**

The primary mode of transportation in Rohrersville is the personal vehicle. The town's rural setting necessitates reliance on roadways to reach healthcare facilities. The most direct route to Frederick, the nearest city with a significant concentration of medical providers, involves navigating **Maryland Route 180 (Jefferson Pike)** and **U.S. Route 340**. The drive typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

**U.S. Route 340**, a major artery, can experience congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with hypertension who may need to avoid stressful situations. The availability of alternative routes is limited, adding to the potential for delay.

Beyond Frederick, more specialized care might require travel to Hagerstown or even the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Reaching Hagerstown necessitates utilizing **Interstate 70**, adding significant travel time, potentially exceeding an hour. The journey to Washington, D.C., involves **Interstate 270**, a notoriously congested highway, and can easily consume over an hour and a half, depending on the destination within the city.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Rohrersville are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those without access to a personal vehicle. The **Frederick County Transit (TransIT)** system provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly in rural areas.

The primary TransIT route serving the area is the **Route 80** which connects to Frederick. However, the frequency of this route might not be sufficient for regular medical appointments, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. TransIT buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall route coverage in Rohrersville remain a concern.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of drivers in Rohrersville can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by **CareRide** or **MedStar Mobile Healthcare**, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation and can be particularly beneficial for those with mobility limitations or requiring assistance. However, these services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than other options.

**Healthcare Access: The Heart of the Matter**

The proximity of Rohrersville to Frederick provides access to a range of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals. **Frederick Health Hospital** is the primary healthcare facility in the area, offering comprehensive medical services. However, the distance and transportation challenges can still pose a barrier to timely healthcare access.

Individuals with hypertension require regular monitoring and medication management. This necessitates frequent visits to healthcare providers, making reliable transportation a critical factor in their ability to manage their condition effectively. The availability of pharmacies in the area is also essential for convenient medication refills.

**Hypertension Score Considerations**

The "Hypertension Score" for Rohrersville is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles places a burden on those without access to one. The limited public transit options and the potential for delays due to traffic congestion on major highways like **U.S. Route 340** and **Interstate 70** further complicate healthcare access.

The inconsistent availability and cost of ride-sharing services, coupled with the need for advance booking for medical transport, add to the complexities. While the presence of healthcare providers in nearby Frederick is a positive factor, the overall transportation challenges can still create barriers to timely and convenient healthcare access.

**Recommendations for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

To improve healthcare access for residents of Rohrersville, several initiatives could be considered. Expanding the frequency and coverage of TransIT routes, particularly to connect with healthcare facilities in Frederick, would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be explored.

Promoting the availability of telemedicine services could reduce the need for in-person visits for certain types of care. Increasing the awareness of medical transportation services and providing financial assistance to eligible individuals could also help.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Moving to Rohrersville offers a tranquil lifestyle, but understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for managing healthcare needs, especially for individuals with hypertension. While the proximity to Frederick provides access to medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for traffic congestion create challenges.

By carefully considering the transportation options, proactively planning for medical appointments, and exploring available resources, residents of Rohrersville can effectively navigate the healthcare landscape and prioritize their well-being. For those considering moving to Rohrersville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential for ensuring a successful and healthy transition.