21903, Perryville, Maryland Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 21903, Perryville, Maryland is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.76 percent of residents in 21903 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Harford Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.34 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Perryville, MD (ZIP Code 21903)

Perryville, Maryland, nestled along the Susquehanna River, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger metropolitan areas. However, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of accessing necessary healthcare services is a critical consideration. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 21903, providing a framework for understanding healthcare access and its implications for individuals with hypertension. We will examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" assessment.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is timely and reliable access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency interventions. The availability of efficient transportation directly impacts the ability to manage this chronic condition effectively. Factors such as travel time, mode of transport, and accessibility features are all crucial in determining the ease with which residents can reach their healthcare providers.

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

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary roadways in and around Perryville shape the healthcare journey. Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south artery, offers relatively swift access to healthcare facilities both north and south of Perryville. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

Route 40, also known as Pulaski Highway, provides a more direct east-west route, connecting Perryville to nearby towns and cities. This road is crucial for accessing local healthcare providers and pharmacies. However, traffic signals and varying speed limits can lead to longer travel times compared to the interstate.

Local roads, such as Route 222 and Jacob Tome Highway, provide access to smaller medical practices and urgent care facilities within Perryville and surrounding communities. These roads, while convenient for local trips, may be less direct and potentially slower than the major highways. The condition of these roads and the presence of traffic lights can also influence travel times, particularly during inclement weather.

For a resident of Perryville, a typical drive to Union Hospital in Elkton, a major healthcare provider, is approximately 20-30 minutes via I-95 or Route 40, depending on traffic. Reaching Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware, a more specialized facility, takes approximately 45-60 minutes via I-95. These drive times, while manageable, highlight the importance of considering potential delays due to traffic, especially for individuals with hypertension who may need prompt medical attention.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus Routes**

Public transportation options in Perryville are limited but still play a role in healthcare access. The Cecil County Transit (CCT) offers bus routes that serve the area, providing a vital link for residents who do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the frequency of these routes and the distances covered can pose challenges for individuals with hypertension.

The CCT system primarily operates on fixed routes, with scheduled stops. While these routes may offer a cost-effective transportation alternative, the travel times can be considerably longer than driving. Furthermore, the availability of routes and their accessibility to specific healthcare facilities must be carefully considered.

For individuals with mobility limitations, the CCT offers ADA-accessible buses, equipped with features such as ramps and wheelchair lifts. This is a critical factor for those who may have difficulty navigating stairs or walking long distances. However, the availability of ADA-accessible services on all routes and during all hours of operation needs to be verified to ensure reliable access to healthcare.

The specific bus routes serving Perryville and their proximity to healthcare facilities vary. It is essential to research the CCT route maps and schedules to determine the most convenient routes for accessing medical appointments and pharmacies. The frequency of service and the potential for delays should also be factored into the planning process.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: The On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. However, the availability of these services in Perryville may be limited, and the cost can be a significant factor for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include door-to-door assistance and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. While these services can be a valuable resource, they are typically more expensive than public transportation or ride-sharing.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services in Perryville should be assessed to determine their reliability and cost-effectiveness. The ability to schedule rides in advance and the availability of drivers or vehicles during off-peak hours are crucial considerations.

**Hypertension Score: An Integrated Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 21903 should reflect the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. This score should consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services.

A higher score would indicate better access to healthcare, characterized by shorter drive times, frequent public transit routes, and readily available ride-sharing and medical transportation options. Conversely, a lower score would indicate more limited access, with longer drive times, infrequent public transit, and potentially unavailable or expensive alternative transportation services.

For individuals considering moving to Perryville and managing hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" can serve as a valuable tool for assessing the suitability of the location. It provides a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare and making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower residents of Perryville with the knowledge and resources they need to effectively manage their hypertension. By carefully evaluating the transportation landscape and understanding the available options, individuals can proactively plan for their healthcare needs and ensure timely access to medical care. This integrated assessment of transportation options is crucial for anyone considering a move to Perryville, especially those with pre-existing health conditions like hypertension.