21541, Mc Henry, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21541, Mc Henry, Maryland is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.93 percent of residents in 21541 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.13 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21541

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In the picturesque, yet geographically diverse, landscape of ZIP Code 21541, encompassing the charming town of Mc Henry, Maryland, the accessibility of medical services is a critical factor in assessing its overall health score. This analysis delves into the transportation infrastructure, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care, ultimately shaping their quality of life.

The very nature of 21541, nestled within Garrett County, presents a unique set of circumstances. Its rural character, while offering tranquility and natural beauty, also contributes to the complexities of healthcare access. The sprawling geography necessitates a reliance on various modes of transportation, with drive times being a primary consideration.

For residents of Mc Henry, the most direct route to many healthcare facilities often involves traversing the familiar arteries of Route 219 and Route 219A. These roads, the lifeblood of the area, provide the primary connection to the nearest hospitals and clinics. However, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the destination, the drive can vary considerably.

A trip to Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland, the county seat, typically requires a drive of approximately 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the starting point within 21541. This drive, while relatively short, can be impacted by weather conditions, especially during the winter months when snow and ice can significantly extend travel times and pose safety risks.

Other healthcare providers, such as specialists or those offering specific services, may necessitate longer journeys. Residents might need to travel to Cumberland, Maryland, or even further afield to Morgantown, West Virginia, for specialized care. These longer trips often involve navigating Interstate 68, a major east-west artery, which can add significant time to the commute, potentially exceeding an hour or more.

Public transportation options within 21541 are limited. The Garrett County Transportation Department offers a demand-response service, providing transportation to medical appointments, shopping, and other essential destinations. However, this service requires advance booking and may not always be readily available, particularly for urgent medical needs. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations. The lack of frequent bus routes, or routes that are not wheelchair accessible, further compounds these challenges, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is not always guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. This reliance on ride-sharing can also be cost-prohibitive for some residents, further limiting their ability to access healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers offer ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize other forms of transportation. However, these services can be costly and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers.

For those considering moving to Mc Henry, the transportation landscape is a vital aspect to consider. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and the associated transportation challenges. The distance to medical facilities, the availability of public transit and ride-sharing, and the potential need for medical transportation services should all factor into their decision-making process.

The overall health score of 21541 is, therefore, significantly influenced by the accessibility of healthcare. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, with its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities, the transportation challenges present a genuine hurdle. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation all contribute to a complex picture.

Improving healthcare access in 21541 requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes expanding public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting the growth of medical transportation providers. Furthermore, investing in telemedicine and other remote healthcare solutions can help bridge the geographical gap and provide convenient access to medical care.

The future health of Mc Henry and its residents hinges on addressing these transportation and healthcare access challenges. By prioritizing these issues, the community can ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need, when they need it, ultimately fostering a healthier and more vibrant community. The ability to easily reach a doctor's office or hospital is a fundamental right, and in a place like 21541, it is also a key to unlocking the full potential of this beautiful and unique area.