20748, Temple Hills, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20748, Temple Hills, Maryland is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.04 percent of residents in 20748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Southern Maryland Hospital Center with a distance of 5.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Temple Hills (ZIP Code 20748)

Considering a move to Temple Hills, Maryland (ZIP code 20748)? Beyond the allure of new beginnings, a crucial aspect to consider is your access to healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score," evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, encompassing transportation options and their associated challenges. This score will help you understand the realities of healthcare access within the community, empowering you to make an informed decision.

The foundation of this score lies in evaluating the diverse methods of transportation available, each impacting the journey to medical appointments. We will delve into the practicality of driving, the efficiency of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing services and medical transport, all within the context of the local infrastructure.

**Driving: The Road to Care**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. In Temple Hills, navigating the roads to healthcare facilities presents a mixed bag of convenience and potential delays. The primary arteries influencing healthcare access include the Capital Beltway (I-495/I-95), the Suitland Parkway, and Branch Avenue (MD-5).

The Capital Beltway, while offering a wide network, is notorious for its congestion, especially during peak hours. Delays can significantly impact travel times to hospitals and specialist offices located further afield. The Suitland Parkway, a more direct route, provides faster access to facilities in the Suitland and Washington, D.C. areas, but is also susceptible to traffic during rush hour. Branch Avenue, running north-south, serves as a crucial connector, but its traffic flow can be inconsistent.

Drive times vary considerably. Reaching the University of Maryland Capital Region Health in Largo, a major hospital, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Driving to MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton might take 25 to 50 minutes. Smaller clinics and urgent care centers within Temple Hills itself are generally more accessible, often reachable within 10 to 15 minutes, but the availability of specialized care may necessitate longer journeys.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Metro and Buses**

Public transportation, a vital component of healthcare access, offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or seeking to avoid traffic. The Washington Metropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), commonly known as Metro, provides the backbone of public transit in the region.

The closest Metro station to Temple Hills is the Branch Avenue station, served by the Green Line. This station is relatively accessible, but the distance from many residential areas in 20748 necessitates a connecting bus ride or a walk. The Green Line provides direct access to downtown Washington, D.C., where numerous hospitals and medical centers are located.

Metrobus, the WMATA's bus service, plays a crucial role in connecting residents to the Green Line and directly to healthcare facilities. Several bus routes, including the 30, 32, and P12, serve the Temple Hills area, providing links to hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices. The bus routes generally have regular service, but the frequency can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit users. All Metro stations and buses are equipped with accessibility features, including elevators, ramps, and audio-visual announcements. However, accessibility can be impacted by maintenance issues or elevator outages, which can cause significant delays.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Specialized Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments, offering door-to-door service. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Availability can also fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited service.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Companies like CareRide and LogistiCare provide non-emergency medical transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require pre-booking and may have eligibility requirements. The cost is usually covered by insurance or Medicaid, but it is important to verify coverage before utilizing these services.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Temple Hills (20748) reflects a mixed picture. While the area benefits from a relatively accessible public transit system and the availability of ride-sharing services, the reliance on the Capital Beltway and the potential for traffic congestion pose significant challenges.

The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Driving:** Moderate. The ease of driving is hampered by traffic congestion on major roadways, particularly during peak hours.
* **Public Transit:** Moderate. The Green Line provides access to downtown D.C. and the Metrobus routes serve the area, but the need for transfers and potential delays due to accessibility issues can impact efficiency.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Moderate. The availability of these services provides options, but costs and pre-booking requirements should be considered.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Moderate. While some clinics and urgent care centers are within easy reach, specialized care often requires travel to hospitals and medical centers further away.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

For those considering moving to Temple Hills, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is vital. Here are some recommendations:

* **Assess your healthcare needs:** Determine the frequency and type of medical appointments you anticipate.
* **Evaluate your transportation options:** Consider your reliance on driving, the feasibility of public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport.
* **Research the location of healthcare facilities:** Identify the hospitals, clinics, and specialists you will likely need to access.
* **Factor in travel times:** Account for potential delays due to traffic or public transit issues.
* **Explore insurance coverage:** Confirm your insurance plan's coverage for transportation services.

By carefully considering these factors, prospective residents can make an informed decision about whether Temple Hills is the right fit, ensuring they can readily access the healthcare they need. The "Overall Health Score" provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access within the community, empowering you to prioritize your well-being and make a sound investment in your future.