21155, Upperco, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21155, Upperco, Maryland is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.85 percent of residents in 21155 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carroll Hospital Center with a distance of 9.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Upperco, MD (ZIP Code 21155)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding Upperco, Maryland (ZIP Code 21155), providing an “Overall Health Score” based on the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. This score considers various transportation modalities, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to Upperco.

The score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic assessment reflecting the interplay of factors impacting healthcare access. These include geographical constraints, the availability of services, and the overall infrastructure. Our assessment focuses on the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, considering the time, cost, and convenience associated with each mode of transport.

**Driving the Healthcare Journey:**

Upperco, nestled in Baltimore County, presents a unique transportation challenge. The area is primarily rural, characterized by winding roads and limited public transit options. Personal vehicles are the dominant mode of transportation, making drive times a critical component of the health score. Residents rely heavily on major thoroughfares like **I-83 (the Jones Falls Expressway)**, which provides a direct route south towards Baltimore City and its concentration of hospitals and specialist clinics.

Accessing healthcare often involves navigating the complexities of **MD-30 (Hanover Pike)**, a major north-south artery that connects Upperco to surrounding communities. Travel times on MD-30 can vary significantly depending on traffic volume, particularly during peak hours. Other important roads include **MD-138 (Mount Carmel Road)** and **MD-23 (Norrisville Road)**, which provide access to local medical facilities and connect to larger transportation networks.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by the location of the facility. For example, reaching the closest urgent care facility in Hampstead might take approximately 15-20 minutes, while driving to a major hospital in Baltimore City could easily exceed 45 minutes, or even an hour during rush hour. These longer commutes contribute to a lower health score, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Upperco are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The **Maryland Transit Administration (MTA)** provides some service in the broader Baltimore County area, but its routes are infrequent and do not directly serve Upperco. The primary bus routes, such as the **MTA Route 94 (Hampstead)**, do not extend into the heart of Upperco, requiring residents to travel to a connecting point, which adds significant time and complexity to their journey.

The lack of robust public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The **Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)** mandates that public transit systems provide accessible services, but the limited scope of service in Upperco makes this largely irrelevant. The absence of accessible public transit exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with mobility impairments, further impacting their health score.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit, but their availability in Upperco can be inconsistent. While these services operate in the area, wait times and fares can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty can make it challenging for residents to schedule and keep medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as those offered by **MedStar Mobile Healthcare** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**, cater to individuals with medical needs that require assistance. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services are often more expensive than other options, and their availability may be limited, especially for routine appointments.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Upperco, MD (21155) is moderately impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variability of ride-sharing services. The score is also negatively affected by the potential for longer drive times to major medical centers in Baltimore City, particularly during peak traffic.

The score could be improved by enhancing public transportation options, including expanding bus routes to directly serve Upperco and increasing frequency. This would reduce reliance on personal vehicles and improve access for vulnerable populations. Furthermore, promoting ride-sharing partnerships and offering financial assistance for medical transportation could mitigate the financial burden associated with healthcare access.

**The Impact on Moving to Upperco:**

For individuals considering moving to Upperco, the transportation landscape is a critical factor to consider. Those who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility may find it challenging to access healthcare. Prospective residents should carefully assess their individual needs and preferences, taking into account the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with transportation.

The health score highlights the importance of proactive planning for healthcare access. Residents should identify their preferred healthcare providers and familiarize themselves with the transportation options available. This includes exploring the potential for carpooling, coordinating appointments to minimize travel, and utilizing telehealth services when appropriate.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Upperco reflects a community that is reliant on personal vehicles, with limited public transit options. While ride-sharing and medical transport services provide some alternatives, their availability and cost can be barriers to access. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs, residents can navigate these challenges and maintain their well-being. The score emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand healthcare access for all residents of Upperco.