20608, Aquasco, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20608, Aquasco, Maryland is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

23.56 percent of residents in 20608 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calverthealth Medical Center with a distance of 6.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 20608 (Aquasco, Maryland)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Aquasco, Maryland (ZIP Code 20608) requires a comprehensive look at their access to healthcare. A crucial element in this assessment is the ease and efficiency with which residents can travel to medical facilities. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, analyzing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers, all factors directly impacting healthcare access. The goal is to paint a clear picture for those considering moving to Aquasco, offering insights into the practicalities of maintaining their well-being.

The primary challenge for Aquasco residents is its relative remoteness. The area, nestled in Prince George's County, is characterized by a rural atmosphere, which translates to longer travel times to reach specialized medical care. While the charm of Aquasco is undeniable, prospective residents must understand the implications of its location when considering their healthcare needs. This is a critical aspect to consider when moving to Aquasco.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 20608 is by personal vehicle. The drive times to various medical facilities are heavily influenced by traffic conditions and the specific destination. The primary roadways serving the area are Maryland Route 4 (also known as Southern Maryland Boulevard) and Maryland Route 301 (Robert Crain Highway). These roads are essential arteries for transportation, connecting Aquasco to larger towns and cities where medical services are concentrated.

For routine care, such as primary care physician appointments or urgent care visits, residents might travel to clinics in nearby towns like Waldorf or Brandywine. Drive times to these locations, typically along Route 4, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. However, when specialized care is required, such as visits to specialists, hospitals, or advanced diagnostic centers, the journey becomes significantly longer.

The closest major hospitals are located in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Traveling to these facilities necessitates navigating a network of highways, including the Capital Beltway (I-495) and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295). The drive to hospitals in Washington, D.C., or nearby Maryland suburbs can easily exceed 45 minutes, and potentially over an hour during peak traffic hours. This extended travel time can be a significant burden, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in 20608 are limited, further impacting healthcare access. The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), or Metro, does not directly serve Aquasco. Residents rely on the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) for public transit.

The MTA offers bus routes that operate in Prince George's County. However, these routes typically have limited frequency and coverage in the Aquasco area. The closest bus stops might require a drive to reach, and the routes themselves may not directly connect to medical facilities. Furthermore, the bus schedules may not align with the appointment times, and the extended travel times can be a challenge.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. While MTA buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts, the availability of accessible routes and stops in the Aquasco area should be carefully investigated. This is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or other disabilities, ensuring they can access healthcare without undue hardship.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Aquasco area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the reliability and cost of these services can vary. During peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability, wait times can be extended, and fares can be higher. For individuals with mobility issues or those requiring regular medical appointments, the fluctuating nature of ride-sharing services can present challenges.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare and American Medical Response (AMR), provide specialized transportation for patients. These services are typically used for non-emergency medical appointments, hospital discharges, and other situations where a patient requires assistance with transportation. However, medical transport services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicles.

The availability and accessibility of medical transport services in 20608 are critical for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive. Prospective residents should research the medical transport providers serving the area, including their service areas, costs, and availability. This information is crucial for planning healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for Aquasco residents is directly affected by the transportation challenges. The combination of longer drive times, limited public transit, and variable ride-sharing options creates barriers to healthcare access. This can lead to delayed appointments, missed follow-ups, and increased stress for residents.

The availability of healthcare facilities in the immediate vicinity of Aquasco is limited. Residents often must travel outside the area to receive specialized care, which adds to the transportation burden. The lack of local healthcare options exacerbates the impact of transportation challenges on healthcare access.

When evaluating the overall health score, it is essential to consider the demographic characteristics of the population. Factors such as age, income, and health status influence the need for healthcare services. For example, older adults or individuals with chronic illnesses may require more frequent medical appointments, making transportation a more significant concern.

**Conclusion:**

The transportation landscape in Aquasco, Maryland, presents significant challenges to healthcare access. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the remoteness and limited public transit options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport. Prospective residents considering moving to Aquasco should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the associated transportation costs.

The overall health score for Aquasco residents is impacted by the transportation challenges. The ability to access timely and affordable healthcare is crucial for maintaining well-being. The information provided in this write-up is intended to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and their potential move to Aquasco.