21871, Westover, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21871, Westover, Maryland is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.21 percent of residents in 21871 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 20.23 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Westover, MD (ZIP Code 21871)

The pursuit of well-being in Westover, Maryland (ZIP code 21871) demands a keen understanding of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up offers a "Hypertension Score" assessment, factoring in the complexities of transportation, crucial for timely medical attention. It's a vital consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Westover, ensuring seamless healthcare integration.

The foundation of our score rests on the premise that prompt and reliable transportation significantly impacts a hypertensive patient's ability to manage their condition. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and emergency interventions are paramount. Therefore, the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare providers directly influence the overall health outcomes for residents.

Westover, a community nestled in the heart of Somerset County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The area is characterized by a rural landscape, where personal vehicles often dominate the transportation landscape. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing services may have constrained availability.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary thoroughfare serving Westover is Maryland Route 13, a vital north-south artery. Driving to the nearest hospitals and specialized care centers in Salisbury, approximately 25 miles north, takes about 35-45 minutes. This drive, primarily on Route 13, can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours.

Another crucial route is Route 50, which intersects with Route 13. This route provides access to Easton and the Eastern Shore, offering additional healthcare options, though travel times increase significantly. The journey to Easton, approximately 60 miles west, can consume up to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Navigating the local roads, such as Mount Vernon Road and Manokin Road, is essential for accessing local clinics and pharmacies. These roads, while generally less congested than the major highways, may be winding and require extra caution, especially during inclement weather. Road conditions and potential delays must be factored into the "Hypertension Score" assessment.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Somerset County are limited, impacting healthcare access. The Shore Transit system offers bus routes, but these services are infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Route 707, for instance, provides service between Salisbury and Princess Anne, potentially offering a connection point.

However, the frequency of these routes is often low, and the schedules may not align with the needs of individuals with hypertension, requiring frequent medical appointments. ADA accessibility is a crucial factor, and Shore Transit buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route network and infrequent service remain significant barriers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the Westover area, but their availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are crucial for patients who cannot drive or lack access to transportation. These services are often reserved for emergencies or scheduled medical appointments. However, their availability and cost can vary.

**The "Hypertension Score" Breakdown**

The "Hypertension Score" for Westover (21871) takes into account the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Healthcare Facilities:** The longer the drive time, the lower the score. Factors like traffic, road conditions, and the distance to specialized care centers are considered.
* **Public Transportation Availability:** The frequency, accessibility, and coverage of public transit routes impact the score. Limited service lowers the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability, reliability, and cost of these services are factored into the score.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies and Urgent Care:** The distance to pharmacies for medication refills and urgent care facilities for immediate medical needs is crucial.
* **Overall Accessibility:** The overall ease with which a patient can access healthcare services is assessed.

**Scoring and Interpretation**

The "Hypertension Score" will be presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing the lowest access and 10 representing the highest. A score of 1-3 indicates significant transportation barriers, potentially hindering healthcare access. A score of 4-6 suggests moderate challenges, requiring careful planning. A score of 7-10 signifies relatively good access, with readily available transportation options.

**Recommendations for Moving to Westover**

Individuals with hypertension considering moving to Westover should carefully assess their transportation needs. They should:

* **Evaluate their ability to drive:** A personal vehicle is often the most reliable mode of transportation.
* **Research local healthcare providers:** Identify the location of primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and urgent care facilities.
* **Investigate public transportation options:** Familiarize themselves with Shore Transit routes and schedules.
* **Assess ride-sharing availability:** Determine the reliability and cost of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Explore medical transportation services:** Identify local providers and understand their services.
* **Plan for emergencies:** Develop a plan for accessing medical care in case of an emergency.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for understanding healthcare access in Westover, Maryland. While the area offers a peaceful environment, its rural nature presents transportation challenges. Careful planning and consideration of the factors outlined in this write-up are essential for individuals with hypertension, ensuring they can maintain their health and well-being in their new community. The journey to healthcare in Westover requires proactive planning, emphasizing the critical link between transportation and healthcare access.