21780, Sabillasville, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21780, Sabillasville, Maryland is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.81 percent of residents in 21780 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meritus Medical Center with a distance of 12.53 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21780 (Sabillasville, Maryland)**

The journey to healthcare in Sabillasville, Maryland (ZIP Code 21780), presents a complex challenge. This rural community, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Frederick County, faces significant hurdles in **healthcare access**, largely due to its geographical isolation and limited **transportation** options. Assessing the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is critical, especially considering the prevalence of hypertension, a condition often requiring regular monitoring and treatment. This analysis, a “Hypertension Score” write-up, delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering **moving to Sabillasville**.

The primary concern for residents of 21780 is the distance to healthcare providers. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in Frederick, Maryland, a town approximately 20 to 30 miles away. This distance translates to a significant commute, heavily reliant on personal vehicles. The major thoroughfare connecting Sabillasville to Frederick is Maryland Route 550, a winding two-lane road that can become congested during peak hours. Travelers must navigate this route, which eventually intersects with US Route 15, a major north-south artery.

The drive on US Route 15, though generally faster, can be subject to traffic delays, particularly during the morning and evening commutes. The journey from Sabillasville, involving Route 550 and US Route 15, can easily take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination in Frederick. This extended commute time poses a significant barrier for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent visits for check-ups, medication refills, or urgent care.

Public **transportation** options in 21780 are severely limited. The Frederick County Transit system (TransIT) provides bus service, but routes serving Sabillasville are infrequent and often require transfers. The primary route that might offer some access is Route 80, but its schedule is not designed for regular medical appointments. The bus service is less frequent on weekends.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on these buses, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, is essential. However, the limited frequency and potential for lengthy travel times, including transfers, make public **transportation** a less viable option for many residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or those who require timely medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Frederick, but their presence in Sabillasville is less reliable. Availability can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the demand. The cost of a ride-share, especially for a round trip to Frederick, can be substantial, adding a financial burden to healthcare access.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare, are available, but they are primarily designed for emergency situations or for individuals with significant medical needs. These services are not typically used for routine appointments or medication pick-ups. The reliance on these services for non-emergency situations can be costly and may not be readily available when needed.

The lack of readily available **transportation** options has a direct impact on the "Hypertension Score" for 21780. The score, which would consider factors like commute time, accessibility of public **transportation**, and the availability of ride-sharing services, would likely be low. This low score reflects the challenges residents face in reaching healthcare providers, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments, which can negatively affect blood pressure control and overall health outcomes.

For individuals with hypertension, regular monitoring and medication adherence are crucial. The difficulties in accessing healthcare in 21780 can make it challenging to maintain consistent care. This can lead to complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. The **transportation** barriers exacerbate the health risks associated with hypertension.

The geographical isolation of Sabillasville, combined with the limited public **transportation** infrastructure, creates a situation where residents are heavily reliant on personal vehicles. This reliance poses a significant challenge for those who do not own a car, cannot drive due to medical conditions, or face financial constraints.

The **healthcare access** in Sabillasville is further complicated by the limited availability of healthcare providers within the community itself. There are no hospitals or major medical centers located directly in 21780. This necessitates travel to Frederick or other surrounding towns for even basic medical services.

The factors affecting the “Hypertension Score” extend beyond the physical **transportation** challenges. Socioeconomic factors, such as income and insurance coverage, also play a role. Individuals with lower incomes may face greater financial barriers to accessing healthcare, including the cost of **transportation**, medication, and medical services. The lack of readily available healthcare services and the challenges in accessing them can lead to health disparities within the community.

As the population ages and the prevalence of chronic diseases like hypertension increases, the need for improved **healthcare access** in Sabillasville becomes even more pressing. Addressing the **transportation** challenges is crucial to improving health outcomes for residents. This could involve exploring options such as:

* Expanding public **transportation** services, increasing the frequency of routes, and improving accessibility features.
* Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized rides for medical appointments.
* Supporting the development of telehealth services to provide remote consultations and monitoring.
* Encouraging the establishment of satellite clinics or mobile medical units in Sabillasville.

For individuals considering **moving to Sabillasville**, the challenges in accessing healthcare, particularly for those with chronic conditions like hypertension, should be a significant consideration. The **transportation** limitations and the distance to medical facilities require careful planning and a realistic assessment of the resources available.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for 21780 is negatively impacted by the limited **transportation** options and the distance to healthcare providers. Addressing these challenges through improved public **transportation**, ride-sharing initiatives, telehealth services, and the potential for satellite clinics is essential to improve **healthcare access** and the health outcomes for residents of Sabillasville. The ability to consistently and easily reach medical care is a critical factor in managing hypertension and ensuring the well-being of the community.