21536, Grantsville, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21536, Grantsville, Maryland is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.26 percent of residents in 21536 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 21.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21536

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital healthcare services. This write-up analyzes the healthcare accessibility in Grantsville, Maryland, ZIP code 21536, considering transportation options, drive times, and the availability of medical transport. We will delve into the realities of navigating the roads, public transit, and ride-sharing landscape to determine an overall health score for residents seeking medical care. This assessment is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Grantsville, as it directly impacts their health and well-being.

Grantsville, nestled in the heart of Garrett County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area necessitates a thorough examination of transportation options, as the distance to medical facilities significantly impacts the overall health score. The ability to reach a doctor, specialist, or hospital quickly and reliably is paramount.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 21536 is personal vehicles. The primary arteries for travel are US Route 40, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Interstate 68, providing access to Cumberland and points east. Secondary roads like Maryland Route 219 and Maryland Route 36 offer alternative routes, though these tend to be winding and potentially slower. Drive times to healthcare facilities are crucial and fluctuate based on the destination and traffic conditions.

For routine appointments, the drive to Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland, approximately 20 miles from Grantsville, could take around 30-45 minutes, contingent on traffic and road conditions. Specialized care often requires travel to Cumberland, roughly 45 miles east, potentially resulting in a one-hour to one-and-a-half-hour drive. The availability of reliable transportation is therefore a critical factor in determining the overall health score.

Public transportation options in Grantsville are limited. The Garrett County Transportation system offers demand-response services, requiring advance booking. These services are designed to provide transportation to medical appointments, among other needs. While this system exists, its effectiveness depends on scheduling availability and the specific requirements of the individual. The accessibility of the service for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) is a crucial factor in evaluating its overall impact on healthcare access.

The Garrett County Transportation system operates with ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the limited frequency and potential for longer travel times associated with demand-response services can be a significant barrier to timely healthcare access. The overall health score is therefore negatively impacted by the lack of readily available public transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the Grantsville area, but their presence is not guaranteed and may be limited. The availability of these services is subject to driver availability and demand, and they may not be readily accessible, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare access is therefore less reliable than in more urban areas.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are primarily intended for critical care and may not be suitable for routine appointments or non-emergency medical needs. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant burden, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

The availability of medical transport brands within the Grantsville area is critical. While specific brand names may vary, the presence of ambulance services and potentially private medical transport providers is essential for ensuring access to emergency and specialized medical care. The overall health score is positively impacted by the availability of these services, though the cost and limitations of their use must be considered.

The overall health score for residents of 21536 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, presents significant challenges. The distance to healthcare facilities, particularly for specialized care, further exacerbates these challenges.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for emergencies, but the limitations of these services for routine care must be acknowledged. The overall health score for 21536 is therefore moderate, with potential for improvement through enhanced public transportation options, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and initiatives to promote telehealth and other remote healthcare solutions.

The overall health score is not merely a numerical value; it reflects the lived experience of residents seeking medical care. It underscores the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access and highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve the accessibility of healthcare services for the residents of Grantsville. Individuals considering moving to Grantsville should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services to ensure their health and well-being.

The ability to access healthcare is fundamental to a healthy life. The challenges faced by residents of 21536, regarding transportation and distance, highlight the importance of community-based solutions. The overall health score reflects the need for collaborative efforts to address these challenges and ensure that all residents have access to the care they need. The health of the community is directly tied to its ability to provide accessible and reliable healthcare.