21524, Corriganville, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21524, Corriganville, Maryland is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.35 percent of residents in 21524 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Western Maryland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Corriganville (ZIP Code 21524)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report, an “Overall Health Score” assessment for Corriganville, Maryland (ZIP code 21524), delves into the crucial element of healthcare accessibility, specifically focusing on transportation options. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is paramount for residents, especially when considering a move to this charming locale. This analysis examines drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities that shape the health landscape in Corriganville.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, the ability to get there. For residents of Corriganville, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments is likely the personal vehicle. The area's geography dictates this reality. The sprawling landscape of Allegany County, where Corriganville is situated, presents unique challenges. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are often a drive away, necessitating careful consideration of travel times.

The primary arteries for vehicular transport in and out of Corriganville are Interstate 68 (I-68) and Maryland Route 51 (MD-51). Heading east on I-68 offers access to facilities in Cumberland, the county seat. Depending on the specific location within Corriganville and the destination within Cumberland, drive times can range from 10 to 20 minutes. Traffic flow, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact these times, adding to the stress of a medical journey. MD-51, running north-south, provides another route, though it often involves navigating local roads and intersections.

For residents seeking more specialized care, the journey extends beyond Cumberland. Baltimore, with its renowned medical institutions, is approximately a two-hour drive via I-68 East and I-70 East. Washington, D.C., presents a similar travel time, accessible via I-68 East, I-70 East, and the Capital Beltway (I-495). These longer drives necessitate careful planning, accounting for potential delays and the physical toll of extended travel, especially for those with pre-existing conditions.

Public transportation options in Corriganville are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The Allegany County Transit (ACT) system provides bus service within the county. However, the frequency of routes and the coverage area may not adequately serve all residents, especially those in more remote areas. ACT's routes are numbered, and schedules are available online. ADA accessibility is a key consideration for the ACT system, with buses equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of convenient routes and the frequency of service can be a barrier to healthcare access for some.

Beyond the ACT system, alternative transportation options include ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. While these services offer on-demand transportation, their availability in rural areas like Corriganville can be inconsistent. Surge pricing, especially during peak hours or in times of high demand, can also make these services cost-prohibitive for some residents. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly for scheduled medical appointments, requires careful consideration.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, offering a range of services, from basic transportation to wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical personnel. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and their availability may be limited depending on the individual's insurance coverage and the specific needs of the patient.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Corriganville, based on transportation factors, is moderately impacted. While the presence of I-68 and MD-51 provides essential vehicular access to nearby medical facilities, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers for some residents. The geographical isolation of Corriganville and the reliance on personal vehicles highlight the importance of considering transportation factors when assessing the community's overall health and when contemplating moving to Corriganville.

For prospective residents, understanding the transportation landscape is critical. Those reliant on public transit or with limited mobility should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities and the availability of alternative transportation options. The cost of transportation, the potential for delays, and the physical demands of travel must be factored into the decision-making process.

The availability of healthcare services in Cumberland and the broader region, including specialized care facilities, is a positive aspect. However, the distance and travel times to these facilities can be a significant concern for residents. The lack of readily available public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness.

The community's health is not solely determined by the availability of medical facilities but also by the ease with which residents can access them. Addressing the transportation challenges in Corriganville is essential to improving healthcare access and fostering a healthier community. This includes exploring options for expanding public transit, promoting ride-sharing programs, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation services.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Corriganville reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options create challenges for some residents. However, the presence of major highways and the availability of medical services in Cumberland and the surrounding areas provide essential access to care. A concerted effort to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing options, and ensure the affordability of medical transport services would significantly enhance the health and well-being of the Corriganville community.