20772, Upper Marlboro, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20772, Upper Marlboro, Maryland is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.42 percent of residents in 20772 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Southern Maryland Hospital Center with a distance of 5.67 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 20772

ZIP Code 20772, encompassing Upper Marlboro, Maryland, presents a nuanced picture when assessing its overall health score, particularly concerning transportation and healthcare access. This analysis delves into the available options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, to paint a comprehensive picture for prospective residents and current inhabitants. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, a crucial factor influencing overall well-being.

The primary concern for residents of 20772 is the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation. While offering flexibility, this dependence introduces potential challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times to medical facilities. This is especially true when considering the major arteries serving the area, including US Route 301 (Crain Highway), which can experience heavy traffic, and the Capital Beltway (I-495/I-95), notorious for its delays.

Driving to the nearest hospitals, such as the University of Maryland Capital Region Health (UM Capital) in Largo, or MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton, can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities located within Upper Marlboro offer more immediate options, but their scope of services may be limited. The drive along Route 301 is often the most direct route, but it's frequently bottlenecked.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its efficacy in 20772 is limited. The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates several bus routes that serve the area. The B21, B22, and B24 routes provide connections to the Addison Road-Seat Pleasant Metrorail station on the Blue Line. However, these bus routes may have limited frequency, especially during evenings and weekends.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for those with disabilities. WMATA strives to provide accessible services, with wheelchair lifts on buses and accessible features at Metrorail stations. However, the availability and reliability of these features can vary. The distance from bus stops to medical facilities, and the potential need for transfers, can also pose challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate based on demand, and may be more expensive during peak hours or for longer distances. The availability of ride-sharing drivers in the area can also vary, potentially impacting accessibility.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, are another option. Companies like CareRide and MedStar Mobile Healthcare offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical personnel. These services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, but they provide a vital service for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit.

The availability of healthcare facilities within 20772 itself is a significant factor. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers within the zip code reduces the need for long-distance travel. However, the specific availability of specialists and the range of services offered can vary. Residents may need to travel to larger hospitals or medical centers in surrounding areas for specialized care.

When considering moving to Upper Marlboro, it is vital to assess individual healthcare needs and transportation requirements. Individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations may need to carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities and transportation options. Those reliant on public transit should research the frequency and reliability of bus routes.

The overall health score for 20772, concerning healthcare access, is moderately favorable. While the area offers a mix of transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services adds flexibility, but these options may have associated costs or availability constraints.

The primary concern is the potential for long drive times, especially during peak hours, and the limited public transit options. Improvements in public transit infrastructure, including increased bus frequency and expanded routes, would significantly enhance healthcare access for residents. Furthermore, promoting the development of more healthcare facilities within the zip code would reduce the need for travel and improve the overall health score.

The health score is also impacted by the socioeconomic factors. Residents with limited financial resources may find it difficult to afford ride-sharing services or medical transport, potentially limiting their access to care. This highlights the need for affordable transportation options and community-based initiatives to support healthcare access for all residents.

In conclusion, while 20772 offers a range of healthcare access options, the overall health score is influenced by the dependence on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for long drive times. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and preferences when considering moving to Upper Marlboro. A proactive approach, including research into available healthcare facilities and transportation options, will ensure that residents can readily access the healthcare services they require.