21530, Flintstone, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21530, Flintstone, Maryland is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.62 percent of residents in 21530 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Western Maryland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Flintstone, MD (ZIP Code 21530)

Assessing the overall health of a community necessitates a deep dive into its infrastructure, particularly its capacity to facilitate **healthcare access**. In the rural enclave of Flintstone, Maryland (ZIP Code 21530), nestled within the scenic embrace of Allegany County, this assessment is especially crucial. This analysis will explore the available **transportation** options for residents seeking medical attention, providing a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' based on the accessibility and efficiency of these pathways.

The geographical isolation of Flintstone significantly influences its healthcare landscape. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Cumberland, approximately 15 to 20 miles away, depending on the specific destination. This distance immediately introduces a time barrier, a critical factor in the 'Overall Health Score' calculation. The primary thoroughfare connecting Flintstone to Cumberland is **Interstate 68 (I-68)**, a vital artery for both personal and commercial traffic.

The journey via I-68 is generally straightforward, offering a relatively smooth and direct route. However, the highway can be susceptible to weather-related delays, particularly during the winter months, potentially impacting **healthcare access** and increasing the risk of adverse health outcomes. Secondary routes, such as **Maryland Route 144** and **Maryland Route 51**, offer alternative pathways, but these roads are often more winding and subject to slower speeds, adding to the commute time.

Beyond the drive-time, the condition of the roads themselves contributes to the 'Overall Health Score'. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate lighting can create safety hazards, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions or mobility limitations. The availability of emergency services, including ambulance response times, is also a crucial component of the score. A longer commute inherently increases the time it takes for emergency medical personnel to reach residents in need, potentially affecting their health outcomes.

Public transit options in Flintstone are limited. Allegany County operates a local bus service, but its routes and schedules may not adequately serve the specific needs of residents seeking medical care. Information on specific route numbers and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is difficult to come by, further indicating a lack of comprehensive public transportation infrastructure. This scarcity poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income families.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cumberland area, but their presence in Flintstone is less certain. Availability can fluctuate based on driver density and demand, potentially leaving residents stranded without reliable **transportation** to medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, adding to the financial burden of seeking healthcare.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar Mobile Healthcare and other private providers may serve the Flintstone area, but their availability and cost vary. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, accommodating individuals with mobility challenges. However, their accessibility and affordability are critical factors in determining their impact on the 'Overall Health Score'.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Flintstone (ZIP Code 21530) reflects a complex interplay of factors. The primary challenge lies in the geographical isolation, leading to longer travel times to access medical facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options exacerbate this challenge, particularly for vulnerable populations. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers potential solutions, but their accessibility and affordability remain crucial considerations.

The score is also affected by the condition of the roads, the availability of emergency services, and the potential for weather-related delays. These factors can significantly impact the time it takes to reach medical care, potentially affecting health outcomes. The absence of detailed information on public transit routes and ADA accessibility further diminishes the score, indicating a lack of comprehensive support for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Moving to Flintstone** requires careful consideration of these factors. Individuals, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or limited mobility, must assess their ability to navigate the **transportation** challenges. The 'Overall Health Score' serves as a valuable tool for prospective residents, providing a realistic assessment of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

Improvements to the 'Overall Health Score' could be achieved through several strategies. Enhancing public **transportation** infrastructure, including expanding bus routes and schedules, would significantly benefit residents. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could also improve **healthcare access** for those with limited mobility or financial constraints. Investing in road maintenance and improving emergency services response times would further enhance the score.

Promoting telehealth services, where appropriate, could also mitigate the impact of geographical isolation. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits and minimizing travel time. However, the availability of reliable internet access in Flintstone is crucial for the success of telehealth initiatives.

The 'Overall Health Score' is not a static measure; it is a dynamic reflection of the community's capacity to support the health and well-being of its residents. By understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with **healthcare access** in Flintstone, the community can work towards creating a healthier and more equitable environment for all. The score is a call to action, urging stakeholders to prioritize improvements in **transportation** infrastructure, healthcare services, and community resources.