The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20755, Fort George G Meade, Maryland is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
81.22 percent of residents in 20755 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Baltimore Washington Medical Center with a distance of 6.83 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 20755, Fort George G Meade, Maryland
Overall Health Score | 40 |
---|---|
People Score | 10 |
Provider Score | 80 |
Hospital Score | 35 |
Travel Score | 54 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 20755 | Fort George G Meade | Maryland |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.97 | 1.97 | 3.97 |
1 Car | 17.14 | 17.14 | 20.79 |
2 Cars | 67.17 | 67.17 | 39.99 |
3 or More Cars | 13.71 | 13.71 | 35.24 |
Vehicular Access in 20755, Fort George G Meade, Maryland
## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 20755
Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 20755, encompassing the Fort George G Meade area, necessitates a deep dive into the crucial intersection of transportation and healthcare access. This analysis considers various modes of transit, from personal vehicles to public options, and their impact on residents' ability to reach essential medical services. For those considering moving to Fort George G Meade, understanding these complexities is paramount.
The fundamental element of healthcare access is the ability to physically reach medical facilities. In 20755, this primarily translates to navigating the road network. The principal arteries for automobile transportation are the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), the Capital Beltway (I-495/I-95), and Route 175. These highways are critical for reaching hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices located in surrounding areas like Columbia, Annapolis, and Baltimore. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying critical care.
Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably based on destination and time of day. For example, accessing the Fort Meade Medical Clinic is relatively straightforward, typically involving a short drive within the base. However, reaching larger hospitals like Howard County General Hospital (Columbia) or the University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore) necessitates longer commutes, often exceeding 30 minutes, and potentially longer during rush hour. The ability to quickly and efficiently reach a healthcare provider is a significant factor in the overall health score.
Public transportation offers an alternative, though its efficacy in this area presents unique challenges. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service, primarily through routes that connect Fort Meade to surrounding communities. Route 210, for instance, offers service to the Odenton MARC station, providing a connection to the commuter rail line to Baltimore and Washington, D.C. However, the frequency of these bus routes can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends, potentially hindering access to healthcare appointments outside of standard business hours.
Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on public transit is a critical consideration. The MTA strives to provide accessible buses and stations, but the reliability and consistency of these features can impact individuals with disabilities. Ensuring that public transportation options are fully accessible is essential for promoting equitable healthcare access for all residents.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation avenue. They provide on-demand transportation, potentially circumventing the limitations of public transit and the hassles of personal vehicle ownership. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier, particularly for those with limited financial resources. Additionally, the availability of ride-share drivers may be limited in certain areas or during off-peak hours, potentially impacting access to healthcare.
Medical transportation services, like CareRide or MedStar Mobile Healthcare, cater specifically to individuals requiring non-emergency medical transport. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient mobility. While valuable, these services can be costly and may require advance booking, potentially limiting their availability for urgent healthcare needs.
The location of healthcare facilities within and around 20755 also plays a crucial role. While the Fort Meade Medical Clinic provides essential primary care services, access to specialized care often requires travel to hospitals and clinics outside the immediate area. The availability of urgent care centers and walk-in clinics within the ZIP code can mitigate some of these challenges, offering readily accessible care for minor illnesses and injuries.
The overall health score for 20755, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area benefits from its proximity to major highways and the availability of public transportation, challenges remain. Traffic congestion, limited public transit frequency, and the cost of ride-sharing services can impede healthcare access. For those considering moving to Fort George G Meade, understanding these nuances is essential.
The health score is also influenced by the demographics of the population. Factors like age, income, and disability status can significantly impact an individual's ability to access and utilize transportation options. Furthermore, the availability of healthcare insurance and the cost of medical care are crucial determinants of overall health.
The availability of telehealth services is another critical consideration. Telehealth offers the potential to expand healthcare access by providing remote consultations, monitoring, and treatment. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on factors like internet access, technological literacy, and the availability of appropriate equipment.
The overall health score is not static; it evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and the demographics of the population. Ongoing efforts to improve public transportation, expand telehealth services, and address the cost of healthcare are essential for enhancing the overall health and well-being of residents in 20755.
In conclusion, the health score for 20755, while influenced by its proximity to major highways and the presence of healthcare facilities, is also shaped by the limitations of public transit, the cost of transportation, and the availability of specialized medical services. For individuals contemplating a move to Fort George G Meade, a comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being. The ability to efficiently navigate the transportation landscape is directly correlated to the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical attention, ultimately influencing the health outcomes of the community.
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