20817, Bethesda, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20817, Bethesda, Maryland is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.61 percent of residents in 20817 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Suburban Hospital with a distance of 1.36 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Bethesda, MD (ZIP Code 20817)

For those contemplating a move to the vibrant community of Bethesda, Maryland (ZIP Code 20817), a crucial consideration is the accessibility of healthcare. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, ultimately assigning an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the area's healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding for prospective residents, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access in Bethesda is the road network. The Capital Beltway (I-495) serves as a major artery, facilitating travel to various hospitals and clinics within and beyond the ZIP code. The drive to Suburban Hospital, a prominent healthcare provider, typically takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. This proximity is a significant advantage for residents, offering quick access to emergency care and routine appointments.

Further enhancing accessibility are major thoroughfares such as Wisconsin Avenue (Route 355) and Old Georgetown Road. Wisconsin Avenue, a bustling commercial corridor, provides direct access to numerous medical offices and specialty clinics. Old Georgetown Road, running parallel, offers an alternative route, often alleviating traffic congestion. These roads, combined with local streets, create a well-connected network, allowing for diverse travel options.

Public transportation plays a vital role in healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), or Metro, provides extensive service in the area. The Bethesda Metro Station, a hub on the Red Line, offers convenient access to hospitals and medical centers throughout the region. Traveling north on the Red Line provides access to facilities in Rockville and Shady Grove.

The Metro system is designed with ADA accessibility in mind. Elevators and ramps are available at all stations, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can navigate the system with ease. This commitment to inclusivity is a crucial factor in evaluating healthcare access for all residents.

Bus services, also operated by WMATA, complement the Metro system. Several bus routes, including the J2, J7, and J9, traverse the area, connecting residents to various medical facilities. These buses provide a cost-effective and environmentally friendly transportation option, especially for those living further from the Metro stations. The bus stops are generally well-maintained, with clear signage and real-time arrival information.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation convenience. These services are readily available throughout Bethesda, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. The ease of booking and the relatively short wait times make ride-sharing a popular choice for many residents. The apps also provide detailed information about the ride, including estimated arrival times and fares.

For those with mobility challenges or specific medical needs, specialized medical transport services are available. Companies like MedStar Mobile Healthcare and American Medical Response (AMR) offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services are essential for individuals who cannot utilize public transportation or drive themselves.

The availability of these diverse transportation options is a significant asset for residents of Bethesda. The combination of well-maintained roads, efficient public transit, readily available ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport services creates a robust healthcare access infrastructure. This accessibility is a crucial factor in evaluating the overall health score for the area.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are generally favorable. The short distances to Suburban Hospital, coupled with the accessibility of the Metro and bus systems, contribute to a high score. While traffic congestion can occur, particularly during peak hours, the availability of alternative routes and transportation options mitigates its impact.

The public transit options, particularly the Metro, offer a reliable and cost-effective means of accessing healthcare. The ADA accessibility of the Metro system ensures that all residents can benefit from this service. The bus routes provide additional connectivity, reaching areas not directly served by the Metro.

Ride-sharing services provide a convenient and flexible transportation option, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those who prefer not to drive. The availability of specialized medical transport services further enhances healthcare access for those with specific needs.

Considering all these factors, the Overall Health Score for access to healthcare in ZIP Code 20817 is exceptionally high. The combination of readily available transportation options, proximity to healthcare facilities, and a commitment to accessibility creates a supportive environment for residents seeking medical care. This high score reflects the area's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents, making it an attractive location for those prioritizing healthcare access when moving to Bethesda.