21824, Ewell, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21824, Ewell, Maryland is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.24 percent of residents in 21824 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 35.22 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ewell, Maryland (ZIP Code 21824)

The journey to manage hypertension in Ewell, Maryland (ZIP Code 21824), is more than just a medical appointment; it's a complex equation of transportation, healthcare access, and individual mobility. This write-up explores the "Hypertension Score" – a personalized assessment of how easily residents can reach essential healthcare services, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities within this rural landscape. It’s particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Ewell, allowing them to proactively understand the realities of healthcare access.

Ewell, nestled within Wicomico County, presents a unique set of circumstances. Its rural character, while offering tranquility, often translates to limited public transportation and longer travel times to specialized medical care. The Hypertension Score considers these factors, analyzing the availability of transportation options and the proximity of healthcare providers capable of managing hypertension.

**The Transportation Terrain:**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Ewell are US Route 13 (Ocean Highway) and Maryland Route 50. US Route 13, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides a direct link to Salisbury, the county seat, and beyond. Maryland Route 50, running east-west, offers access to the Eastern Shore's coastal towns and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. However, these highways can experience significant traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and tourist seasons, which can substantially impact drive times to healthcare facilities.

Secondary roads like Ewell Road and Old Ocean City Road provide access within the community, but these routes are often narrow and winding, making them less suitable for public transit or individuals with mobility limitations. The absence of sidewalks and bike lanes further complicates transportation options for those without access to a car. This dependence on personal vehicles significantly influences the Hypertension Score, as it adds travel time and cost to accessing healthcare.

**Drive Times and Healthcare Access:**

The closest hospitals and specialized healthcare providers for managing hypertension are primarily located in Salisbury. Driving to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in the area, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This travel time is a critical component of the Hypertension Score.

Specialist appointments, such as those with cardiologists or endocrinologists, often require longer drives. Depending on the specialist's location, travel times can extend to 45 minutes or even an hour. This distance can be particularly challenging for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, who may require frequent check-ups and adjustments to their medication. The Hypertension Score must account for these extended travel times, recognizing the impact on patient adherence to treatment plans.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Ewell are limited. The Shore Transit system provides bus service throughout Wicomico County, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater to the specific needs of healthcare access. The bus routes, while covering some areas, may not directly serve Ewell or offer convenient connections to medical facilities.

Furthermore, the frequency of bus service is often low, with buses running infrequently, particularly on weekends and evenings. This limited availability makes public transit an unreliable option for individuals with hypertension who require timely access to medical care. While Shore Transit does offer ADA-accessible buses, the overall lack of comprehensive coverage significantly impacts the Hypertension Score for individuals reliant on public transportation.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Salisbury area, but their presence in Ewell is less consistent. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can pose a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension who need prompt transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport individuals with medical needs, including those with mobility limitations or who require assistance during travel. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, particularly for routine appointments. The cost and accessibility of these services must be factored into the Hypertension Score.

**Impact on the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score for Ewell residents is inherently impacted by the limited transportation options and the distances to healthcare facilities. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle face significant challenges in accessing timely and convenient medical care. The reliance on driving, coupled with potential traffic congestion, can lead to increased stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate hypertension.

The absence of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the equation. The cost of medical transportation services can also be a barrier to healthcare access, particularly for low-income individuals. These factors combine to create a lower Hypertension Score for residents of Ewell, highlighting the need for improved transportation solutions and increased healthcare access.

**Improving Healthcare Access:**

Several strategies could improve the Hypertension Score for Ewell residents. Expanding public transit routes and increasing service frequency would provide a more reliable and affordable transportation option. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Implementing telehealth services, where patients can consult with healthcare providers remotely, could reduce the need for travel. Promoting community health programs that offer hypertension screening and education within Ewell would also be valuable.

**Moving to Ewell and the Hypertension Score:**

For individuals considering moving to Ewell, understanding the Hypertension Score is crucial. Prospective residents with hypertension should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. Researching the availability of healthcare providers, the cost of transportation options, and the potential impact of travel times on their treatment plan is essential.

By proactively addressing these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the support they require to manage their hypertension effectively. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the realities of healthcare access in Ewell, empowering residents to navigate the transportation landscape and prioritize their health.