20624, Clements, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20624, Clements, Maryland is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

31.80 percent of residents in 20624 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 5.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clements, MD (ZIP Code 20624)

Embarking on a journey to assess the overall health score for residents of Clements, Maryland (ZIP Code 20624) requires a deep dive into the intricate web of healthcare access. This analysis will focus on the vital component of transportation, recognizing its profound impact on residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. We will explore the available options, from personal vehicles navigating the roadways to the more public and shared methods of transport, offering a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking healthcare within this community.

The very essence of healthcare access hinges on mobility. For Clements residents, the ability to reach medical facilities is often intertwined with the realities of rural living. The geography of St. Mary's County, where Clements is situated, presents both opportunities and obstacles. The relative proximity to larger towns and cities, such as Leonardtown and California, offers a wider array of healthcare options, but the distances involved, coupled with the limitations of available transportation, can create significant hurdles.

One of the primary modes of transportation for Clements residents is the personal vehicle. The convenience and flexibility of a car are undeniable, offering door-to-door service and the ability to accommodate individual needs. However, this mode of transport is not without its challenges. Commuting to healthcare appointments often involves navigating the roadways of St. Mary's County, which can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours.

The primary thoroughfare serving Clements is Maryland Route 5, also known as Point Lookout Road. This road provides a crucial link to the larger towns of Leonardtown and California, where a significant concentration of healthcare facilities is located. Traveling south on Route 5, residents can access the MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, a comprehensive medical center offering a wide range of services. The drive time to Leonardtown from Clements typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, heading north on Route 5 provides access to California, where numerous medical practices, specialists, and urgent care facilities are available. The drive time to California from Clements is comparable to the journey to Leonardtown, generally taking between 20 and 30 minutes. The efficiency of these journeys is paramount, especially in emergency situations where every minute counts.

Beyond Route 5, several secondary roads and highways contribute to the transportation network in and around Clements. Maryland Route 235, also known as Three Notch Road, intersects with Route 5, providing an alternative route to Leonardtown and California. This route may offer a slightly different traffic flow, but it can also add to the overall travel time. Residents may also use local roads, such as Medleys Neck Road and Newtowne Neck Road, to navigate the area, but these roads are often narrower and less direct.

Public transportation options in St. Mary's County are limited, presenting a significant challenge for residents who do not have access to a personal vehicle. The St. Mary's County Transit System (SMCTS) provides bus services throughout the county, but the routes and schedules may not always align with the healthcare needs of Clements residents. The availability of bus routes and their frequency are crucial factors that influence healthcare access.

The SMCTS operates a few routes that may be relevant to Clements residents. Route 1, the Leonardtown Connector, provides service to Leonardtown, offering a potential connection to healthcare facilities. Route 2, the California Connector, provides service to California, also offering a potential connection to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes is typically limited, with buses running on a schedule that may not be convenient for medical appointments.

The SMCTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transportation system. This is a critical feature, as it allows those with mobility limitations to access healthcare facilities. Information on routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility can be found on the St. Mary's County government website.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as an alternative mode of transportation, offering on-demand rides to various destinations. The availability of these services in Clements and the surrounding areas can significantly impact healthcare access. The convenience of ride-sharing, with its ability to provide door-to-door service, is a significant advantage.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes. The fares can quickly add up, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services can also be inconsistent, depending on the time of day and the demand for rides. The reliability of these services is a crucial factor in healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are another option for Clements residents. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Several medical transportation companies operate in the St. Mary's County area, including Senior Transportation of Maryland and MedStar Mobile Healthcare.

These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, with trained staff who can assist patients with their needs. The cost of medical transportation services can vary, depending on the distance traveled and the level of care required. The availability of these services and their ability to meet the specific needs of Clements residents are crucial factors in healthcare access.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Clements, MD (ZIP Code 20624) is significantly influenced by the availability and accessibility of transportation to healthcare facilities. While personal vehicles offer the most flexibility, the reliance on roadways such as Route 5, Route 235, and local roads, coupled with potential traffic delays, can impact timely access to care. The limited public transportation options, the potential cost and availability issues of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation services all contribute to the complex picture of healthcare access in this community.

For those moving to Clements, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential. It's important to consider the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs involved. Planning ahead and exploring all available resources can help ensure that residents of Clements have access to the healthcare they need, promoting a healthier and more vibrant community.