21244, Windsor Mill, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21244, Windsor Mill, Maryland is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.66 percent of residents in 21244 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Hospital Center with a distance of 1.95 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21244

Considering a move to Windsor Mill, Maryland (ZIP Code 21244)? Assessing the overall health score of a community involves more than just the quality of medical facilities. It necessitates a deep dive into the ease with which residents can actually *access* those resources. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding 21244, evaluating its impact on healthcare access and ultimately contributing to an informed understanding of the area's overall health score.

The ability to reach healthcare providers efficiently is paramount. A community's transportation infrastructure directly influences this. In 21244, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. Several major roadways facilitate travel to and from medical facilities. The primary artery is the Baltimore Beltway, or I-695, which borders the zip code and provides access to hospitals and clinics in surrounding areas. Additionally, I-70, located just north of 21244, offers another major corridor for travel.

Local roads like Liberty Road, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Reisterstown Road, running north-south, are crucial for accessing local healthcare options. These roads, however, are often subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. This congestion can significantly impact drive times and, consequently, healthcare access, especially in emergency situations. The condition of these roads, including potholes and other maintenance issues, further influences travel times and the overall experience.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the time of day. For example, reaching Northwest Hospital, located just outside the zip code, typically takes 5-10 minutes during off-peak hours via Liberty Road or I-695. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double. Accessing larger hospitals like the University of Maryland Medical Center downtown, or Johns Hopkins Hospital, will involve longer drive times, typically 20-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-695 and the city streets.

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service in the 21244 area. Several bus routes, including the 40, 73, and 91, serve the area, offering connections to hospitals and medical centers. The 40 route, for example, travels along Liberty Road, providing access to several local clinics and medical offices. The 73 and 91 routes offer connections to other parts of the city and access to larger hospitals.

However, public transit in the area has its limitations. Service frequency, especially during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, making it challenging for those needing timely access to healthcare. Moreover, while the MTA strives to provide accessible services, including ADA-compliant buses with ramps and designated seating, the availability of these features on all routes and during all hours should be verified. Transfers between routes can also add significant travel time.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in 21244, offering another transportation option. These services can be particularly helpful for those unable to drive or lacking access to public transit. The convenience of on-demand transportation is a significant advantage. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments. Additionally, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or specific medical needs, are also available. Companies like First Transit and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have limited availability, especially for short-notice appointments.

The overall health score for 21244, concerning transportation and healthcare access, is nuanced. While the area benefits from proximity to major roadways, providing access to a wide range of medical facilities, reliance on personal vehicles and traffic congestion can create challenges. Public transit offers an alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency and coverage must be considered. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide additional options, but their cost and availability can be factors.

For individuals considering moving to Windsor Mill, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Those who rely on public transit should carefully assess the routes and schedules to ensure they meet their needs. Individuals with mobility limitations should investigate the availability and accessibility of medical transportation services. The ability to efficiently reach healthcare providers is a critical component of overall well-being, and a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is essential for making an informed decision.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity of 21244 is another important consideration. While the area has several local clinics and medical offices, access to specialized care may require travel to hospitals or medical centers located outside the zip code. This underscores the importance of understanding drive times and transportation options to these facilities.

Furthermore, the presence of community resources, such as senior centers and disability services, can play a vital role in supporting healthcare access. These resources often provide transportation assistance or connect residents with available services. Investigating the availability of these resources can contribute to a more complete picture of the area's overall health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 21244, concerning transportation and healthcare access, is a mixed bag. While the area benefits from its location and access to major roadways, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services present challenges. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and preferences, considering the drive times, public transit options, and availability of support services, to make an informed decision about moving to Windsor Mill. A thoughtful consideration of these factors will contribute to a more accurate assessment of the area's suitability for their healthcare needs and overall well-being.