21090, Linthicum Heights, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21090, Linthicum Heights, Maryland is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.89 percent of residents in 21090 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Agnes Hospital with a distance of 4.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21090 (Linthicum Heights)

Linthicum Heights, Maryland (ZIP Code 21090), offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the bustling Baltimore metropolitan area. However, the area's health landscape, particularly concerning **healthcare access**, is intricately linked to the availability and efficiency of **transportation** options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the challenges and opportunities residents face in accessing essential medical services. For those considering **moving to Linthicum Heights**, understanding this score is crucial for informed decision-making.

The "Overall Health Score" for 21090 is a composite measure. It considers factors such as drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability and efficiency of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the existence of specialized medical transport options. Each component is weighted based on its impact on residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The higher the score, the better the overall healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 21090 is the personal vehicle. Drive times are heavily influenced by the major roadways that crisscross the area. The Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) is a critical artery, offering relatively quick access to hospitals and medical centers in both Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County. However, this route is prone to congestion, especially during peak hours. The Baltimore Beltway (I-695) provides another crucial link, facilitating access to a wider range of healthcare providers.

Traveling south on I-95, residents can reach medical facilities in the Jessup and Columbia areas. The proximity to these major highways is a significant advantage for Linthicum Heights residents. However, relying solely on these roadways can be problematic. Traffic accidents, construction, and rush hour delays can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying access to critical medical care. Secondary roads, such as Camp Meade Road, and local arteries like Nursery Road, offer alternative routes but may be slower and less direct.

Drive times to various healthcare facilities vary. University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center in Towson is typically a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. The University of Maryland Medical Center in downtown Baltimore can take 25-40 minutes. Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis is further, often requiring a 40-60 minute drive. Specialty clinics and urgent care facilities located closer to 21090, such as those along the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, offer quicker access.

**Public Transit: A Network of Challenges and Opportunities**

Public transit in 21090, primarily provided by the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA), presents both challenges and opportunities. The primary bus routes serving the area include the CityLink Blue and the LocalLink 75. These routes connect Linthicum Heights to Baltimore City and surrounding areas, including hospitals and medical centers. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends.

The MTA's light rail system offers an alternative, with a station located in nearby Linthicum. This provides a faster and more reliable connection to downtown Baltimore and the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, the light rail does not directly serve all medical facilities, requiring transfers and potentially increasing travel time.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. The MTA strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses and light rail stations. However, the availability of elevators and ramps at all stations can be inconsistent, and the reliance on transfers can be challenging for those with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services are readily available in 21090, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who are unable to drive or utilize public transit due to medical conditions or disabilities. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Overall Health Score: A Balanced Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for 21090 reflects a mixed picture. The area benefits from its proximity to major highways, offering relatively quick access to a range of healthcare facilities. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options further enhances accessibility. However, the limitations of public transit, particularly the frequency of routes and the potential for delays, pose a challenge. The cost of transportation, whether through ride-sharing or medical transport, can also be a barrier for some residents.

Considering all these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for 21090 is moderately high. The area offers good access to healthcare facilities, but residents must navigate a complex transportation landscape. Those considering moving to Linthicum Heights should carefully assess their individual transportation needs and preferences. Factors such as age, mobility, income, and reliance on public transit will significantly influence their ability to access healthcare.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To further improve the "Overall Health Score" for 21090, several initiatives could be implemented. Increasing the frequency and coverage of public transit routes, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, would benefit many residents. Expanding the availability of affordable ride-sharing programs, perhaps through partnerships with local healthcare providers, could also improve access. Promoting awareness of medical transportation services and providing financial assistance to those in need would further enhance healthcare accessibility. Finally, continued investment in infrastructure improvements, such as traffic management systems and road maintenance, would help to reduce drive times and improve overall transportation efficiency.