21131, Phoenix, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21131, Phoenix, Maryland is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.13 percent of residents in 21131 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Hospital Center with a distance of 15.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21131

ZIP Code 21131, nestled in the heart of Maryland, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities regarding overall health. This assessment delves into the intricacies of healthcare access within the area, meticulously evaluating the available transportation options and their impact on residents’ ability to reach vital medical services. Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals considering moving to Phoenix, or anywhere else, as it provides a clear picture of the healthcare landscape and its accessibility.

The most significant obstacle to healthcare access in 21131 is undoubtedly the reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are the I-95 corridor, the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, and Route 175. These highways, while offering relatively swift commutes to major medical centers, are prone to congestion, particularly during peak hours. This congestion can significantly extend drive times, transforming a short trip into a stressful and time-consuming ordeal.

Consider a resident of 21131 needing to reach the closest major hospital, Howard County General Hospital, a member of Johns Hopkins Medicine. The drive, ideally, is a manageable 20-minute journey via Route 175. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 45 minutes or even an hour, significantly impacting the timeliness of medical care, especially in emergencies. This underscores the importance of considering the variable nature of transportation when assessing healthcare access.

Public transit, while present, offers a less compelling solution. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates several bus routes that serve the 21131 area. Route 40, for instance, provides a connection to the nearby Dorsey MARC station, allowing residents to access the MARC Penn Line for travel towards Baltimore or Washington, D.C. However, the frequency of these bus routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The MTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the system. However, the availability of accessible routes and the distance between bus stops and medical facilities remain a concern. The lack of readily available, efficient, and accessible public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative to traditional public transit. These services are readily available in 21131, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant burden, particularly for low-income individuals and those requiring frequent medical care. The affordability of ride-sharing services, therefore, becomes a crucial factor in determining overall healthcare access.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare, cater specifically to patients requiring non-emergency medical transport. These services often provide stretcher transport and other specialized assistance, but they are typically reserved for patients with specific medical needs. The availability and cost of these specialized services add another layer of complexity to the overall assessment of healthcare access.

The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities within and around 21131 also influences healthcare access. While the area benefits from its proximity to Howard County General Hospital and other medical centers in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, the concentration of specialized services may be uneven. Residents may need to travel further distances to access specific types of care, such as specialized cardiology or oncology services.

The availability of primary care physicians within the ZIP Code is also a critical factor. Access to a primary care physician is often the gateway to preventative care and early intervention. The density of primary care practices within 21131, and their acceptance of various insurance plans, directly impacts the ease with which residents can access routine medical services.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 21131 is, therefore, a complex calculation. While the area benefits from its proximity to major medical centers and the availability of ride-sharing services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential cost of transportation all present challenges.

The score is further influenced by the availability of specialized medical services, the density of primary care physicians, and the specific needs of the individual. For example, an elderly resident with mobility issues and limited financial resources will likely face significantly greater challenges in accessing healthcare than a younger, able-bodied individual with a reliable vehicle and comprehensive health insurance.

When considering moving to Phoenix, or any new location, it's crucial to conduct thorough research on the healthcare infrastructure and transportation options available. This includes evaluating the drive times to medical facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the density of primary care physicians.

The overall health score for 21131, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers access to quality healthcare, the transportation challenges and potential financial burdens associated with accessing those services must be carefully considered. The effectiveness of the transportation network directly impacts the timeliness and affordability of healthcare, influencing the overall well-being of the residents.

The ultimate goal of this assessment is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 21131, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The ability to easily and affordably access healthcare is a fundamental right, and understanding the transportation factors that impact this access is crucial for residents and those considering relocating to the area. The interplay of transportation and healthcare access is a crucial consideration for anyone evaluating a new community.