21851, Pocomoke City, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21851, Pocomoke City, Maryland is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.90 percent of residents in 21851 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 20.49 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Pocomoke City (ZIP Code 21851)

Moving to Pocomoke City, Maryland, in ZIP code 21851, presents a unique set of considerations, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The availability and accessibility of healthcare, specifically for those requiring regular check-ups and medication, are paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, culminating in a "Hypertension Score" to help assess the ease of navigating the system.

The cornerstone of healthcare access lies in reliable transportation. For residents of Pocomoke City, the primary mode of transport is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town is relatively rural, and public transit options are limited. This reliance on personal vehicles necessitates a careful examination of drive times and road conditions, especially for those with health conditions.

The main arteries for commuting to healthcare facilities are US-13, also known as Ocean Highway, and MD-12, which connects Pocomoke City to Snow Hill and beyond. Drive times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, traffic, and weather conditions. A routine appointment at the local primary care physician's office, typically located within the town, might involve a short drive, perhaps ten to fifteen minutes.

However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, often necessitates travel to Salisbury, approximately thirty to forty-five minutes away via US-13. This extended travel time can be a significant factor for individuals with hypertension, potentially impacting their ability to adhere to scheduled appointments and maintain consistent care.

Public transportation options in Pocomoke City are limited. The Worcester County Transportation Department (WCTD) offers a demand-response service, providing transportation within Worcester County. However, this service typically requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs or frequent appointments. The WCTD does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The absence of a robust public transit system places a greater emphasis on alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Medical transportation services, like those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, represent another option, particularly for individuals who require assistance or cannot drive themselves.

Assessing healthcare access involves considering factors beyond just transportation. The location of healthcare facilities, the availability of appointments, and the cost of services all play a crucial role. Residents of Pocomoke City have access to local primary care physicians, a local hospital, and a range of specialists in nearby Salisbury. However, the relatively limited number of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity can sometimes lead to longer wait times for appointments.

The cost of healthcare is another critical consideration. Individuals with hypertension often require regular medication, which can be expensive. The cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fares, adds to the overall financial burden. Access to affordable healthcare and medication is essential for managing hypertension effectively.

For individuals moving to Pocomoke City with pre-existing conditions, understanding the local healthcare landscape is paramount. Researching the availability of healthcare providers, assessing transportation options, and understanding the associated costs are essential steps.

The "Hypertension Score" is designed to provide a simplified assessment of healthcare access in Pocomoke City. This score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Primary Care:** The average drive time to a primary care physician's office.
* **Drive Time to Specialist Care:** The average drive time to a specialist, such as a cardiologist.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The availability and accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The availability and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability of medical transportation services.
* **Healthcare Costs:** The affordability of healthcare and medication.

Each factor is assigned a score, and the overall Hypertension Score is calculated based on these individual scores. A higher score indicates better healthcare access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

**Calculating the Hypertension Score (Hypothetical Example):**

* **Drive Time to Primary Care:** 5 minutes (Score: 5)
* **Drive Time to Specialist Care:** 40 minutes (Score: 2)
* **Public Transit Availability:** Limited, demand-response service (Score: 2)
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Moderate, but limited during off-peak hours (Score: 3)
* **Medical Transportation Options:** Available, but potentially expensive (Score: 3)
* **Healthcare Costs:** Moderate, with access to some assistance programs (Score: 3)

**Overall Hypertension Score: 18 (Out of a possible 30)**

This hypothetical score suggests that while primary care access is relatively good, access to specialist care and reliance on transportation options could pose challenges. The score highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration for individuals with hypertension moving to Pocomoke City.

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Pocomoke City, it is crucial to conduct thorough research, consult with healthcare providers, and explore all available transportation options. Planning for potential travel times, considering the availability of ride-sharing services, and understanding the limitations of public transit are essential.

Furthermore, individuals should investigate the cost of healthcare and medication, and explore any available assistance programs. Building a strong support network, including family, friends, and healthcare professionals, can also help mitigate the challenges of navigating healthcare access in a rural environment.

Moving to Pocomoke City offers a unique lifestyle, but it requires careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Understanding the transportation landscape, assessing the availability of healthcare providers, and planning for potential challenges are crucial steps in ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining optimal health.