21210, Baltimore, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21210, Baltimore, Maryland is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.57 percent of residents in 21210 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sinai Hospital Of Baltimore with a distance of 1.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 21210

The health and well-being of residents in Baltimore's 21210 ZIP code, encompassing the vibrant neighborhoods of Charles Village and Remington, are intrinsically linked to their ability to access healthcare. This write-up explores the multifaceted landscape of transportation options available, assigning an "Overall Health Score" based on factors influencing healthcare access. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking medical care in this area.

The Overall Health Score for 21210, factoring in transportation, healthcare access, and the potential impact on residents' health, is **moderately favorable**. While the area benefits from proximity to major healthcare institutions and a relatively robust public transit system, challenges remain in terms of accessibility, affordability, and the specific needs of vulnerable populations.

**Driving and Roadways:**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, the primary arteries for healthcare access in 21210 are the major roadways that crisscross the city. The Jones Falls Expressway (I-83) offers a direct north-south route, connecting residents to the Johns Hopkins Hospital complex and other medical facilities located downtown. However, peak-hour traffic can significantly impact drive times, especially during morning and evening commutes.

The Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) provides another crucial route, particularly for those living in the southern part of 21210. This highway offers access to medical centers in the surrounding areas. Local roads like Charles Street, St. Paul Street, and University Parkway serve as vital connectors, facilitating access to smaller clinics, doctor's offices, and specialized care providers.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. A trip to Johns Hopkins Hospital, for example, could take as little as 5-10 minutes during off-peak hours via I-83, but easily double or triple during rush hour. The distance to facilities in the southern part of the city, using the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, could be 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Parking availability and costs at healthcare facilities are also important considerations. Parking garages and surface lots are often crowded, and fees can add a significant financial burden, especially for frequent visits.

**Public Transportation:**

Baltimore's public transportation system, operated by the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA), provides an alternative to driving, offering several options for accessing healthcare. The MTA's bus network is extensive, with numerous routes serving the 21210 ZIP code. Bus routes like the #3, #11, and #22 provide direct access to Johns Hopkins Hospital and other medical facilities.

The Baltimore Metro Subway, while not directly serving the heart of 21210, offers a connection point. Residents can take the subway to stations near healthcare facilities, requiring a transfer to a bus or a short walk. The Metro Subway is accessible, with elevators and ramps for individuals with disabilities.

The MTA's Light Rail system also provides a limited option, connecting to some healthcare facilities. However, the Light Rail's coverage in the 21210 area is less comprehensive than the bus network.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor for public transit. The MTA has made efforts to improve accessibility, with ramps, elevators, and accessible seating on buses and trains. However, the age of some infrastructure and the occasional lack of maintenance can present challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient alternatives for accessing healthcare, particularly for those who may not own a car or are unable to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing residents to book a ride with a few taps on their smartphone.

The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand, time of day, and distance. While generally more expensive than public transit, ride-sharing can be a valuable option for those who need a direct, door-to-door service.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare and American Medical Response (AMR), provide specialized transportation for patients who require medical assistance during their journey. These services offer ambulances, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and trained medical personnel to ensure safe and comfortable transport.

The availability and cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the patient's needs and insurance coverage. These services are often essential for individuals with mobility impairments, chronic illnesses, or those requiring urgent medical care.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Baltimore:**

The healthcare landscape in 21210 is rich with options. The proximity to Johns Hopkins Hospital, a world-renowned medical institution, is a significant advantage for residents. Numerous other hospitals, clinics, and specialized care providers are located within a reasonable distance, offering a wide range of medical services.

However, healthcare access is not solely determined by the availability of facilities. Factors such as insurance coverage, affordability, and the availability of appointments can significantly impact a resident's ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

For those considering moving to Baltimore, particularly to the 21210 ZIP code, understanding the transportation options and healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents should research the proximity of healthcare facilities to their desired location, assess the availability of public transit, and consider the potential costs of transportation.

**Overall Assessment and Recommendations:**

The Overall Health Score for 21210 reflects a mixed picture. The area benefits from its proximity to major healthcare institutions and a relatively robust public transit system. However, challenges remain in terms of traffic congestion, the cost of transportation, and the accessibility of public transit for all residents.

To improve the Overall Health Score, several recommendations can be considered. Investing in public transit infrastructure, including expanding bus routes and improving the frequency of service, could enhance healthcare access. Implementing traffic management strategies to reduce congestion on major roadways would also be beneficial.

Promoting ride-sharing programs for medical appointments and providing financial assistance for transportation costs for low-income residents could further improve healthcare access. Finally, ensuring that all healthcare facilities are fully accessible and that appointment scheduling is efficient and convenient would contribute to a more positive healthcare experience for all residents.

The 21210 ZIP code offers a unique blend of urban living and access to world-class healthcare. By addressing the challenges related to transportation and healthcare access, the community can further enhance the health and well-being of its residents, making it an even more attractive place to live and thrive.