21867, Upper Fairmount, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21867, Upper Fairmount, Maryland is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 21867 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 20.35 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Healthcare Access and Transportation in Upper Fairmount (ZIP Code 21867)**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension, requires a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 21867, encompassing the community of Upper Fairmount, Maryland, providing a detailed assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The goal is to determine a 'Hypertension Score' reflecting the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability.

**Understanding the Challenge: Hypertension and Healthcare Access**

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a prevalent health concern often requiring regular monitoring and medication. Consistent access to healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, is crucial for effective management. Transportation barriers can significantly impede this access, leading to missed appointments, medication non-adherence, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. This analysis aims to illuminate these potential barriers within Upper Fairmount.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary roadways influencing healthcare access in 21867 are Maryland Route 12 (MD 12) and MD 363. These roads serve as the main arteries for travel within and beyond the community. Driving times to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas, such as Princess Anne or Salisbury, are critical factors. The drive to the nearest hospital, *TidalHealth Peninsula Regional* in Salisbury, is approximately 30 miles, potentially taking 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Traveling south on MD 12 to Princess Anne, where some medical practices are located, might take 15-20 minutes. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can affect these times. While the roads are generally well-maintained, the rural nature of the area means that public transportation options are limited.

**Public Transit: A Sparse Network**

Public transportation options in 21867 are limited. The Shore Transit system provides some bus services within Somerset County, but routes and schedules are often infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings. These routes might not directly serve all healthcare facilities, requiring transfers or extended travel times.

The Shore Transit system does offer ADA-accessible buses, which is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the availability of these buses on all routes and at all times should be verified. Details on specific route numbers and schedules are essential for assessing the feasibility of public transit for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Mobility Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Salisbury area, but their presence in Upper Fairmount and surrounding rural areas may be less reliable. The availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in response to weather conditions.

Medical transport services are a crucial component of healthcare access for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including *American Medical Response (AMR)* and *Somerset County EMS*. These services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, but they often require pre-booking and may have associated costs. The availability and cost of these services are essential considerations for assessing healthcare access.

**Assessing the 'Hypertension Score'**

To determine the 'Hypertension Score' for 21867, we must consider several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary consideration. The longer the drive time, the lower the score. The availability and reliability of public transit also play a crucial role. A robust and frequent public transit system would improve the score, while a limited system would lower it.

The presence of ride-sharing services and medical transport options can partially mitigate transportation barriers. However, their cost and availability must be factored in. The higher the cost or the less reliable the service, the lower the score.

**Factors Affecting the Score**

Several factors can influence the 'Hypertension Score'. The availability of healthcare providers within the community is crucial. The closer the providers, the higher the score. The presence of pharmacies, where patients can obtain their medications, is also a positive factor.

The socioeconomic status of the community is another consideration. Individuals with lower incomes may face greater transportation barriers due to the cost of transportation services. The age and health status of the population are also relevant, as older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions may have greater transportation needs.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in 21867 requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit options, particularly on weekends and evenings, would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be considered.

Promoting the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, can reduce the need for in-person visits. Educating residents about available transportation options and providing assistance with booking transportation services is also crucial.

**Moving to Upper Fairmount: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Upper Fairmount, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. While the area offers a tranquil, rural setting, healthcare access is a critical consideration. Prospective residents, especially those with chronic health conditions like hypertension, should carefully assess the availability of healthcare providers, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with accessing medical care.

**Conclusion**

The 'Hypertension Score' for 21867 reflects a complex interplay of transportation options and healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful environment, transportation barriers may pose challenges for individuals managing chronic conditions. A comprehensive assessment of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services is essential for understanding the healthcare landscape. By addressing transportation barriers and promoting healthcare access, the community can improve the health and well-being of its residents.