20723, Laurel, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20723, Laurel, Maryland is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.19 percent of residents in 20723 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Howard County General Hospital with a distance of 5.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Laurel, MD (ZIP Code 20723)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape of Laurel, Maryland (ZIP Code 20723), evaluating its impact on residents' overall health by scrutinizing commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Laurel, ensuring they can easily reach necessary medical care.

Laurel, strategically positioned between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, presents a unique transportation challenge. While offering proximity to major metropolitan areas, the town’s layout and reliance on specific roadways significantly influence healthcare access. The Overall Health Score, therefore, reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries serving Laurel are the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), the Capital Beltway (I-495), and the Washington-Baltimore corridor (I-95). These major highways, while providing quick access to a broad range of medical facilities, are notorious for congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Driving to the University of Maryland Laurel Medical Center, located within the ZIP code, is generally straightforward. However, even a short trip on the congested Contee Road or the often-busy Van Dusen Road can become time-consuming during rush hour. Depending on the time of day, a drive that typically takes 10 minutes could easily stretch to 20 or even 30 minutes.

Accessing specialized care in Baltimore or Washington, D.C., necessitates navigating these major highways. Trips to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore or MedStar Washington Hospital Center in D.C. can easily take an hour or more, considering traffic. This extended commute time can be a significant barrier to timely healthcare, especially during medical emergencies.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, though its effectiveness varies. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service throughout the area, including routes that connect Laurel to surrounding communities and key medical facilities.

Route 895, for instance, serves the Laurel area and connects to the Greenbelt Metro station. From there, passengers can access the Washington, D.C., Metro system, opening up access to hospitals like MedStar Washington Hospital Center. However, this multi-modal journey can be time-consuming, often exceeding an hour and a half, depending on transfers and waiting times.

The MTA's bus routes are generally ADA-accessible, offering ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service on some routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited, posing challenges for those needing regular medical appointments.

The MARC commuter rail provides another option, with the Laurel Station offering service to Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. While the MARC train provides a relatively quick commute to these cities, access to hospitals from the train stations requires additional transportation, such as the Metro or a taxi/ride-share.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Laurel, offering on-demand transportation to medical appointments. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical visits.

Several medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services, such as Logisticare and Modivcare, provide non-emergency medical transportation, often covering the cost for Medicaid recipients. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot use public transit or ride-sharing.

**The Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Laurel:**

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in Laurel, MD (20723), is moderate. While the town offers a range of transportation options, each has its limitations. Driving can be time-consuming due to traffic congestion. Public transit, while available, requires careful planning and can be lengthy. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenience but may come with financial constraints.

The proximity of the University of Maryland Laurel Medical Center is a significant advantage, providing immediate access to essential healthcare services. However, residents may need to travel to Baltimore or Washington, D.C., for specialized care, increasing commute times and potentially impacting healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Laurel, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation preferences is essential. Those who rely on frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the accessibility and affordability of available transportation options. Individuals with mobility limitations should investigate the availability and reliability of medical transportation services.

The Overall Health Score is not simply a number but a reflection of the complex interplay between transportation and healthcare access. By understanding these dynamics, residents of Laurel can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they receive the timely and appropriate care they require.