20896, Garrett Park, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 20896, Garrett Park, Maryland is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.46 percent of residents in 20896 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Walter Reed National Military Med Cen with a distance of 2.37 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in 20896 (Garrett Park, MD)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP code 20896, encompassing the charming, affluent community of Garrett Park, Maryland. It examines the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services, considering various transportation options. This score aims to inform prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Garrett Park, about the practicalities of healthcare access, a crucial component of overall well-being.

The score incorporates factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. It reflects the potential challenges and advantages of navigating the transportation landscape to access healthcare facilities. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation environment and its impact on the health and wellness of Garrett Park residents.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

The primary mode of transportation for many Garrett Park residents is personal vehicles. The area's proximity to major roadways offers relatively convenient access to a variety of healthcare providers. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

For those seeking immediate medical attention, Suburban Hospital in Bethesda is a key destination. Reaching Suburban Hospital from Garrett Park involves navigating the often-busy roads. The most direct route typically involves taking **Strathmore Avenue** east, merging onto **Old Georgetown Road (MD-187)**, and then turning onto **Tilden Lane** to reach the hospital. During off-peak hours, the drive can be completed in approximately 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly on weekdays, this commute can easily extend to 20-30 minutes or even longer.

Another significant healthcare destination is Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. The drive to Sibley involves utilizing **Connecticut Avenue (MD-185)**, a major thoroughfare. Depending on traffic conditions, the journey can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes. This route offers access to a wider range of specialized medical services, making it a vital option for Garrett Park residents.

For residents needing specialist appointments or seeking care at Johns Hopkins Medicine, the drive to the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore is a consideration. This commute, typically involving the **Capital Beltway (I-495)** and **I-95 North**, is a significantly longer undertaking, often taking between 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, especially for those seeking to avoid traffic or reduce their carbon footprint. The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), commonly known as Metro, provides a valuable service for Garrett Park residents.

The **Red Line** of the Metro system has a station in Garrett Park. This provides direct access to downtown Washington, D.C., and connections to other Metro lines. The Metro is generally considered a reliable and efficient way to travel, although it can be subject to delays and service disruptions.

To access healthcare facilities via the Red Line, residents can take the train to the Medical Center station, which provides access to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. This route offers a convenient option for accessing these major medical centers.

The Metro system is ADA-compliant, with elevators and accessible stations available throughout the network. This ensures that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. However, the walk from the Metro station to the final destination may still be a consideration.

Bus service is also available in the Garrett Park area, providing connections to various destinations. The **Ride On** bus system, operated by Montgomery County, offers routes that connect Garrett Park to nearby communities and healthcare facilities. However, bus routes may have less frequent service and longer travel times compared to the Metro.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient transportation options for Garrett Park residents. These services are readily available in the area and can be used to access healthcare facilities. Ride-sharing can be particularly helpful for those who do not own a car or who are unable to drive due to medical conditions.

The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the distance, time of day, and demand. However, it provides a flexible and on-demand transportation solution.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by American Medical Response (AMR) and other private companies, are available for individuals who require specialized transportation. These services typically provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their transportation needs. These services are often used for non-emergency medical appointments or for patients who require assistance with mobility.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 20896 reflects a mixed picture. While Garrett Park benefits from its proximity to major healthcare facilities and the availability of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges.

The presence of the Metro and ride-sharing services provides viable alternatives to driving. However, the accessibility of these options can be affected by factors like service disruptions, cost, and individual mobility needs.

The availability of medical transport services further enhances healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Garrett Park offers access to a range of healthcare options. The community's location provides access to Suburban Hospital, Sibley Memorial Hospital, and the Johns Hopkins system. The presence of the Metro and ride-sharing services provides additional transportation options. However, residents should be prepared for potential traffic delays and consider the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services. The overall health score is positive, reflecting a community with good healthcare access, but with the caveat that transportation planning is essential for optimal healthcare utilization.