20777, Highland, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20777, Highland, Maryland is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.83 percent of residents in 20777 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Howard County General Hospital with a distance of 4.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 20777 (Highland, Maryland)

Understanding healthcare access is crucial when considering a move, especially to a place like Highland, Maryland (ZIP code 20777). This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease of commuting to healthcare facilities. This score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for residents.

Highland, a charming community, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the bustling metropolitan areas of Washington D.C. and Baltimore. This strategic location influences healthcare access, presenting a diverse landscape of choices and challenges. The "Overall Health Score" considers these factors, providing a realistic view for prospective residents.

The primary determinant of the "Overall Health Score" is drive-time. Residents of 20777 rely heavily on personal vehicles. The main arteries for transportation are the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), providing a direct route to Baltimore, and US-29, offering access to Columbia and the Washington D.C. suburbs. Other important roadways include MD-175, connecting to Fort Meade, and the scenic, albeit slower, MD-108.

Drive-times vary considerably depending on the destination and the time of day. Peak traffic hours, especially on MD-295 and US-29, can significantly extend commute times. For instance, a trip to Howard County General Hospital in Columbia, a major healthcare provider, might take 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours but could easily double during rush hour. Similarly, accessing hospitals in Baltimore, such as Johns Hopkins Hospital, could involve a 45-60 minute drive under ideal conditions, potentially stretching to 90 minutes or more during peak traffic. This variability impacts the "Overall Health Score," recognizing the potential for delayed access during emergencies.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its availability and convenience are limited in 20777. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service, with routes like the 501 and 503 offering connections to Columbia and the surrounding areas. These routes, while serving the community, do not directly connect to major hospitals or medical centers, often requiring transfers. The frequency of these buses can also be a concern, with longer wait times outside of peak hours.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of MTA buses is generally good, with features like ramps and priority seating. However, the overall public transportation network in 20777 presents a challenge for individuals with mobility issues or those seeking timely access to healthcare facilities. The "Overall Health Score" reflects this limitation, acknowledging the dependence on personal vehicles for many residents.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide another transportation option. These services are readily available in 20777, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or longer distances. Furthermore, the reliability of these services can fluctuate, especially during inclement weather or peak demand periods.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for healthcare needs, are available in the area. Companies like FirstCall Medical Transportation and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the existence of these specialized services, recognizing their crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

The availability of healthcare facilities within 20777 itself is a key consideration. While the area has a number of primary care physicians and urgent care clinics, it lacks a major hospital. This necessitates travel to neighboring communities for specialized care, emergency services, and comprehensive medical treatments. This geographic reality significantly influences the "Overall Health Score," underscoring the importance of reliable transportation.

The "Overall Health Score" also considers the proximity to pharmacies and other healthcare-related services. The presence of local pharmacies and the ease of accessing them contribute positively to the score. Similarly, the availability of home healthcare services can improve the score by facilitating access to care for individuals who have difficulty traveling.

When moving to Highland, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Consider the frequency of medical appointments, the need for specialized care, and any mobility limitations. Factor in the potential for traffic delays, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of public transportation.

The "Overall Health Score" for 20777 is, therefore, moderately positive. The area benefits from its proximity to major healthcare providers in Columbia, Baltimore, and the D.C. suburbs. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential for traffic congestion create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but cost and reliability remain concerns.

For individuals who prioritize easy access to healthcare and are comfortable with driving, 20777 offers reasonable healthcare access. For those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations, the "Overall Health Score" is lower, and careful planning is essential. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool, providing a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility in Highland, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.