21136, Reisterstown, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21136, Reisterstown, Maryland is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.55 percent of residents in 21136 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Hospital Center with a distance of 7.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21136 (Reisterstown, MD)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 21136, Reisterstown, Maryland, necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access, particularly the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering **moving to Reisterstown** and prioritizing their well-being. The score reflects the combined efficiency, convenience, and accessibility of these **healthcare access** pathways.

Reisterstown, a vibrant community nestled in Baltimore County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. However, the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and the available **transportation** infrastructure significantly impact the ease with which residents can receive medical care. Understanding these factors is critical for evaluating the overall health score.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Reisterstown residents to access healthcare is by personal vehicle. The major thoroughfares, including Interstate 795 (Northwest Expressway), Reisterstown Road (Maryland Route 140), and the Baltimore Beltway (Interstate 695), are crucial arteries. Drive times to various healthcare facilities fluctuate depending on traffic conditions, which are generally heaviest during peak commuting hours, typically weekdays between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

For example, a drive to Northwest Hospital, located just south of Reisterstown in Randallstown, typically takes 10-15 minutes via Reisterstown Road under normal traffic. Reaching Sinai Hospital in Baltimore City, a more comprehensive medical center, could take 20-30 minutes via I-795 and the Baltimore Beltway. Johns Hopkins Hospital, renowned for its specialized care, presents a longer commute, potentially 40-50 minutes, also utilizing the I-795 and I-695 routes.

The efficiency of this **transportation** method is contingent on the resident's location within the ZIP code and the time of day. Residents in the northern parts of Reisterstown, closer to the intersection of I-795 and MD-140, might experience slightly shorter travel times. Conversely, those residing further south or east, closer to the Baltimore County line, could face longer commutes, especially during rush hour.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides public **transportation** options for residents of Reisterstown. The primary route serving the area is the MTA LocalLink 94 bus, which operates along Reisterstown Road, connecting Reisterstown to downtown Baltimore. While this route offers a viable alternative to driving, especially for those without personal vehicles, travel times are generally longer than driving.

The LocalLink 94 bus route, however, has ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and priority seating, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. The frequency of the bus varies, with more frequent service during peak hours and less frequent service on weekends and evenings.

The availability of the Light Rail, while not directly serving Reisterstown, can be accessed via connecting bus routes. This adds another layer of complexity to the public transit journey, requiring transfers and potentially increasing travel time. For individuals relying on public **transportation**, planning and flexibility are key.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Reisterstown, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand **transportation** to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to own a vehicle or navigate public transit schedules. The cost of ride-sharing varies depending on distance, time of day, and demand.

Specialized medical transport services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare, are also available for individuals requiring non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services provide trained personnel and specialized vehicles, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey to medical appointments. These services are often utilized by individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during travel.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 21136 is influenced by the interplay of these **transportation** factors and the availability of healthcare providers. While Reisterstown offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, certain considerations impact the score.

The convenience of driving, with its associated time savings, is offset by the potential for traffic congestion. Public transit, while accessible, can be time-consuming and less convenient for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing urgent care. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor. While Reisterstown has some local medical offices and urgent care centers, residents often need to travel to larger hospitals and specialized clinics in Baltimore City. This necessitates longer commutes, potentially impacting the overall health score.

The availability of specialized medical services within a reasonable distance is also critical. The presence of hospitals like Northwest Hospital, Sinai Hospital, and Johns Hopkins Hospital significantly enhances the healthcare access score for Reisterstown residents. However, the distance and **transportation** challenges to reach these facilities must be considered.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 21136 reflects a nuanced picture. While Reisterstown benefits from its proximity to major healthcare providers and the availability of various **transportation** options, challenges remain. Traffic congestion, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing can impact healthcare access. For those considering **moving to Reisterstown**, understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The overall health score is therefore moderately favorable, with room for improvement in terms of public transit efficiency and the availability of affordable and accessible **transportation** options for all residents. The score is further bolstered by the presence of reputable hospitals and medical centers within a reasonable driving distance.