21053, Freeland, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21053, Freeland, Maryland is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.66 percent of residents in 21053 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Umd Upper Chesapeake Medical Center with a distance of 22.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21053 (Freeland, MD)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 21053, centered around the community of Freeland, necessitates a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access. This encompasses not only the availability of medical facilities but also the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach them. A key component of this access is transportation, a multifaceted challenge in a predominantly rural area. The following analysis examines the various transportation options available, their limitations, and their impact on the overall health score for those considering moving to Freeland.

The geographic reality of Freeland dictates a reliance on personal vehicles for most transportation needs. The primary arteries serving the area are crucial for accessing healthcare. Residents typically utilize **Maryland Route 83 (I-83)**, a major north-south highway, to reach hospitals and specialty clinics in Baltimore City or the more immediate medical centers in the surrounding counties. **Maryland Route 138** and **Maryland Route 45** also serve as vital connectors, providing access to local medical practices and pharmacies. The drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day.

For instance, a routine check-up at a primary care physician in nearby Hereford (a common choice for Freeland residents) might involve a relatively short drive, perhaps 10-15 minutes. However, accessing a major hospital like the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore City could easily translate to a 45-60 minute commute, particularly during peak traffic hours. This travel time significantly impacts the overall health score, potentially delaying urgent care and adding stress to routine appointments. Furthermore, weather conditions, especially during winter, can exacerbate these travel times, posing additional challenges.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 21053 are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not offer extensive bus routes within the immediate Freeland area. The primary public transit option is the **MTA's commuter bus route 94**, which provides service from Park & Ride locations along I-83 to downtown Baltimore. While this route offers a potential connection to hospitals and medical facilities in the city, it requires a drive to a park-and-ride location, adding another layer of complexity to the commute.

The accessibility of these public transit options is further complicated by the lack of comprehensive ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features in the rural areas. While the commuter buses are ADA-compliant, the infrastructure at park-and-ride locations and the accessibility of connecting routes may not always be fully compliant, potentially hindering access for individuals with mobility impairments. The infrequent service and the potential for long travel times make public transportation a less viable option for many residents needing timely healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability in Freeland and the surrounding rural areas can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The expense of these services can strain household budgets and potentially limit access to necessary care for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients with mobility challenges or those requiring specialized assistance, provide another option. Companies like **CareRide** and **MedRide** offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, while valuable, often require advance booking and can be expensive, further impacting the overall health score. The availability of these services is also contingent on the patient's insurance coverage and the specific medical needs.

The impact of these transportation challenges on the overall health score is multifaceted. The longer commute times associated with accessing healthcare can lead to delayed treatment, missed appointments, and increased stress levels. This can negatively impact the management of chronic conditions and hinder preventative care. The lack of convenient and affordable transportation options also disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

For those considering moving to Freeland, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the limitations in healthcare access due to transportation constraints must be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their individual transportation needs and evaluate the potential impact on their healthcare access. This includes considering the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of public transportation or ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with accessing care.

Improving the overall health score in ZIP Code 21053 requires addressing these transportation challenges. This could involve advocating for increased public transportation options, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting initiatives that expand access to medical transport services. Furthermore, encouraging the development of telehealth services and the establishment of local medical practices can help reduce the reliance on long-distance commutes.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Freeland is significantly influenced by the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services create barriers to timely and affordable healthcare. Addressing these transportation limitations is essential to improving the overall health and well-being of the community and making Freeland a truly accessible and healthy place to live. The future of healthcare access in Freeland hinges on innovative solutions that prioritize transportation and ensure that all residents can easily reach the care they need.