20861, Ashton, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20861, Ashton, Maryland is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.53 percent of residents in 20861 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Montgomery Medical Center with a distance of 2.88 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Ashton, MD (ZIP Code 20861)

Ashton, Maryland, nestled within the 20861 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for evaluating overall health, particularly concerning **healthcare access**. This analysis delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available to residents, examining drive times, public transit routes, and alternative mobility solutions. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Ashton**, as they directly impact the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the practical realities of navigating the region to access essential healthcare services.

The foundation of healthcare access in Ashton lies in its geographical context. Located in Montgomery County, the area is characterized by a blend of rural charm and suburban development. This dichotomy influences the availability and efficiency of transportation options. The primary challenge stems from the relative distance to major medical facilities, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion on key thoroughfares.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

For those who rely on personal vehicles, navigating to healthcare appointments in Ashton involves several key roadways. The primary artery is Georgia Avenue (Route 97), which provides a direct route south towards Olney and Silver Spring, where a concentration of medical facilities exists. Driving times along Georgia Avenue can vary significantly depending on the time of day. During peak rush hour, the commute can be significantly extended due to heavy traffic.

Other important roads include New Hampshire Avenue (Route 650), which offers an alternative route to the south, and Norbeck Road, providing access to facilities further west. The ease of access to these roads is a significant factor in determining the overall health score. Residents living closer to major roads enjoy a distinct advantage in terms of reduced travel times.

The drive times to major hospitals and medical centers are a critical component of the health score. Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, while a considerable distance away, is a major regional facility. Shady Grove Medical Center in Rockville, closer to Ashton, is another crucial destination. The drive to these facilities, typically ranging from 20 to 45 minutes under normal traffic conditions, can be substantially longer during peak hours. The ability to reliably predict and manage these travel times is vital for maintaining a positive health outcome.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

Public transit options in Ashton present a more nuanced picture. The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), commonly known as Metro, provides bus service in the area. The Ride On bus system, operated by Montgomery County, also serves Ashton. However, the coverage is not extensive.

Specific bus routes, such as Ride On Route 34 and Ride On Route 44, offer service within the vicinity of Ashton. These routes connect to Metro stations, providing access to a wider network of healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, may be limited. This can be a significant barrier for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The accessibility of public transit is further complicated by the geographical layout of Ashton. The area is relatively spread out, and the bus routes may not directly serve all residential areas. This necessitates walking or other forms of local transportation to reach bus stops. The **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** compliance of the buses, including features like ramps and audio-visual announcements, is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

In recent years, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft have become increasingly prevalent. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing in Ashton can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as medical car services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. The availability and cost of these services in Ashton are important factors in assessing the overall health score.

**The Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in Ashton, MD (20861) is a multifaceted assessment. It considers the following key elements:

* **Drive Times:** The average travel time to major hospitals and medical centers, factoring in traffic congestion during peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, coverage, and ADA compliance of bus routes, and their connectivity to Metro stations.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost of Uber and Lyft services in the area.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and cost of specialized medical transportation services.
* **Geographical Considerations:** The proximity of residential areas to major roads and public transit stops.

Based on these factors, the overall health score for Ashton, MD (20861) is moderately positive. While the area benefits from proximity to major roadways and a growing ride-sharing presence, the limitations of public transit and the potential for long drive times, especially during peak hours, present challenges.

**Implications for Moving to Ashton**

For individuals considering **moving to Ashton**, a thorough understanding of these transportation dynamics is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities from their potential residences. Individuals who plan to drive should factor in potential traffic delays when scheduling appointments.

The overall health score for Ashton is not static. It is subject to change as transportation infrastructure evolves, ride-sharing services expand, and healthcare facilities adapt to meet the needs of the community. The ongoing development of transportation solutions will continue to influence the ease with which residents can access the healthcare they need.