21035, Davidsonville, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21035, Davidsonville, Maryland is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.35 percent of residents in 21035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Luminis Health J Kent Mcnew Family Medical Center with a distance of 5.00 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Davidsonville (ZIP Code 21035)

Davidsonville, Maryland (ZIP code 21035), a charming community nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant landscapes, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, assessing its overall health requires a deeper dive, specifically examining the accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis focuses on the crucial element of *transportation*, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. The ability to access healthcare is paramount, and this report provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for residents, particularly those considering *moving to Davidsonville*.

The 'Overall Health Score' is not a single number but a multifaceted assessment. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, offering a holistic view of *healthcare access*. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and advantages of accessing medical care within and from this specific ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries connecting Davidsonville to healthcare providers are the major roadways. Route 50, a vital east-west thoroughfare, provides direct access to Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis. The drive, typically under 20 minutes, is generally smooth, though traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. The speed limit on Route 50 is 55 miles per hour, but it can vary depending on the section and traffic.

Route 2, also known as Solomons Island Road, provides an alternative route to Annapolis and offers access to various medical offices and clinics. Travel times on Route 2 are generally comparable to Route 50, but the road can be more prone to stop-and-go traffic. The speed limit on Route 2 is 45 miles per hour, but this also can vary.

Smaller roads, such as Davidsonville Road and Rutland Road, serve as connectors within the community, facilitating travel to local medical practices and pharmacies. These roads, while convenient for local trips, are less direct for reaching major hospitals. These roads are typically 35 miles per hour.

For those seeking specialized care in Baltimore or Washington, D.C., the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) and Interstate 97 offer crucial links. However, these routes often involve longer travel times, typically 45 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic conditions. The speed limit on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway is 55 miles per hour, and the speed limit on Interstate 97 is 65 miles per hour.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Davidsonville are limited, posing a significant challenge for residents without personal vehicles. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly serve Davidsonville with fixed-route bus service. The closest MTA bus routes, such as the Route 210, 215, and 220, operate in Annapolis, requiring a transfer or a significant walk from Davidsonville.

These bus routes provide access to Anne Arundel Medical Center and other medical facilities within Annapolis. However, the lack of direct service and the potential for lengthy travel times, especially for those with mobility issues, severely limit the effectiveness of public transit for healthcare access.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on MTA buses is generally good, with ramps, lifts, and designated seating areas. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for transfers can still pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Davidsonville, offering a convenient alternative to driving. The availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand, but they generally provide a reliable option for reaching medical appointments. Ride-sharing costs can fluctuate, especially during peak hours, and should be factored into the overall cost of healthcare access.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available for residents with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare and various private ambulance companies, provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. They offer a higher level of care and support, including trained medical professionals and specialized equipment. However, these services can be expensive and may require pre-booking.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Davidsonville (ZIP code 21035) is moderate. While the community benefits from its proximity to major roadways and the availability of ride-sharing services, the lack of robust public transportation options and the potential for traffic congestion negatively impact the score.

Residents with personal vehicles generally have good access to healthcare facilities, with drive times to Anne Arundel Medical Center being relatively short. However, those relying on public transit face significant challenges, including limited service and the need for transfers.

The availability of ride-sharing services provides a viable alternative for many residents, but the cost can be a barrier for some. Specialized medical transportation services offer a valuable option for those with specific needs, but the expense can be a concern.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For individuals *moving to Davidsonville*, it is crucial to consider their *transportation* needs and their reliance on public transit. Those who depend on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the challenges of accessing healthcare.

Potential residents should also factor in the cost of ride-sharing or specialized medical transportation when assessing the affordability of healthcare.

The community could benefit from advocating for increased public transit service, particularly to connect Davidsonville with existing MTA routes in Annapolis. This would significantly improve *healthcare access* for residents without personal vehicles.

Promoting awareness of available ride-sharing and medical transportation services can also help residents navigate the complexities of *healthcare access*.

In conclusion, while Davidsonville offers a desirable lifestyle, its 'Overall Health Score' regarding healthcare access is somewhat limited by the lack of public transit. Residents with personal vehicles have relatively easy access to medical facilities, but those without face greater challenges. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone considering *moving to Davidsonville* and prioritizing their healthcare needs.