20855, Derwood, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20855, Derwood, Maryland is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.65 percent of residents in 20855 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 Adventist Healthcare Shady Grove Medical Center with a distance of 3.81 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 20855 (Derwood, Maryland)

The overall health score for residents of Derwood, Maryland (ZIP code 20855), concerning healthcare access, hinges significantly on the ease and efficiency of transportation. This analysis delves into the various modes of transportation available, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, evaluating their impact on the ability of residents to reach essential medical facilities. The ultimate goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and advantages faced by those seeking healthcare within and beyond this specific ZIP code. This is especially relevant for individuals considering moving to Derwood, as transportation directly influences quality of life.

The primary mode of transportation for most Derwood residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The area benefits from a network of well-maintained roads, but the reality of commuting in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area means that drive times are often subject to significant variation depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. The major arteries serving Derwood include Interstate 270 (I-270), a vital north-south corridor, and Maryland Route 124 (MD-124), which provides east-west access.

For those traveling south towards Rockville or Bethesda for healthcare, the journey on I-270 can be relatively straightforward outside of peak hours. However, during rush hour, the drive can easily extend beyond 30 minutes, even for relatively short distances. MD-124 offers an alternative, but its traffic flow is often slower, particularly near intersections. Heading north towards Gaithersburg or Germantown, the traffic on I-270 can be less congested, but the distance to hospitals and specialist offices still requires consideration.

The average drive time to the nearest hospitals, such as Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center in Rockville, can range from 15 to 30 minutes under normal conditions, but this can easily double during peak hours. Specialist appointments further afield, such as those in Washington, D.C., or Baltimore, necessitate significantly longer travel times, potentially exceeding an hour depending on the specific destination and the time of day. This variability in drive times directly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation provides an alternative to driving, although its accessibility and efficiency in Derwood require careful consideration. The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), commonly known as Metro, operates a network of bus routes that serve the area. The Ride On bus system, operated by Montgomery County, also provides local transportation options. However, the availability of these services and their direct connectivity to healthcare facilities are key factors in assessing their impact on healthcare access.

The closest Metro station to Derwood is the Shady Grove station, located approximately a 10-minute drive away. From there, riders can access the Red Line, which provides direct access to various healthcare facilities in the city. However, the need to drive to the station and the potential for delays on the Red Line itself must be factored into the overall commute time.

Bus routes, such as Ride On routes 55 and 56, provide direct service to the Shady Grove Metro station and some local medical offices. However, these routes often have limited service hours, particularly on weekends and evenings, and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair ramps and audio announcements, are standard on WMATA and Ride On buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize these services. However, the frequency of service and the overall travel time can still pose challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option for Derwood residents. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to drive or rely on public transit schedules. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent appointments. During peak hours, surge pricing can significantly increase the cost of a ride, making it less accessible.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or MedStar Mobile Healthcare, are available for individuals who require specialized assistance. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs and may require pre-booking.

The availability of these services is a significant advantage for those with mobility issues or other health concerns. However, the cost and availability of these services must be considered when evaluating the overall health score.

Healthcare access in Derwood, Maryland, is directly impacted by the available transportation options. While the area benefits from a network of roads and access to public transportation, the challenges of commuting in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including traffic congestion and limited public transit service, can significantly impact the time and effort required to reach healthcare facilities.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities is a critical factor in determining the overall health score for residents of Derwood. The time and effort required to reach healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals, can influence the likelihood of seeking timely medical attention. This is especially important for individuals with chronic conditions, who require regular check-ups and treatments.

The overall health score for Derwood residents, therefore, is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a range of transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, the efficiency, affordability, and accessibility of these options vary considerably. For those considering moving to Derwood, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges and advantages is essential.

The ease of navigating the transportation landscape is crucial for maintaining good health. The ability to access healthcare in a timely and efficient manner is fundamental to overall well-being. Therefore, the overall health score for Derwood, Maryland, is directly tied to the effectiveness of its transportation infrastructure and the availability of diverse transportation options. The goal is to ensure that all residents, regardless of their individual circumstances, can access the healthcare they need.