21561, Swanton, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21561, Swanton, Maryland is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.68 percent of residents in 21561 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Swanton, MD (ZIP Code 21561)

The overall health score for residents of Swanton, Maryland, ZIP code 21561, is significantly impacted by the accessibility of healthcare services. This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities related to transportation to healthcare facilities, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective residents and current community members. We will delve into the complexities of commuting, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a vivid picture of the realities of healthcare access in this rural region.

Swanton, nestled in Garrett County, presents unique geographical hurdles. Its remote location and sparse population density directly influence the availability and practicality of various transportation methods. The undulating terrain, punctuated by forests and mountains, further complicates travel. This isolation, coupled with the limited infrastructure, significantly affects the overall health score, making healthcare access a critical determinant of well-being.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating a network of highways and local roads. The most direct route to the Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland, Maryland, the primary healthcare hub for the region, involves traveling along US Route 219 South. This drive, though relatively straightforward, can take approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Other healthcare options necessitate longer commutes. Accessing specialists in Cumberland, Maryland, requires traversing Interstate 68 East, a journey that can extend to an hour or more. This journey is even longer for those seeking specialized care in Morgantown, West Virginia, which necessitates a drive of over an hour and a half, primarily via I-68 West. The variability of these drive times, influenced by weather and traffic, introduces an element of unpredictability, potentially delaying critical care.

The condition of the roads also plays a crucial role. Winter weather, common in the region, can render roads treacherous, increasing travel times and potentially hindering access to healthcare. The winding nature of many of the local roads, such as Swanton Road and Broad Ford Road, further contributes to the challenges of navigating the area, especially during inclement weather.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in Swanton are extremely limited. Garrett County does offer a public transit system, but its service area is restricted, and its routes may not directly connect with all healthcare facilities. Information regarding specific routes and schedules is crucial for those without personal vehicles. However, the lack of readily available information and the limited frequency of service pose significant barriers to healthcare access.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles within the public transit system is also a key consideration. For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation is paramount. The presence and reliability of ADA-compliant vehicles directly impact their ability to attend medical appointments and access essential healthcare services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability are not guaranteed. The sparse population density and the geographical remoteness of Swanton may limit the frequency and availability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, offer a critical lifeline for individuals requiring urgent or specialized care. These services are essential for transporting patients to and from healthcare facilities, especially those with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and their availability may be subject to limitations based on staffing and resource availability.

**Healthcare Access and the Decision to Move:**

The transportation challenges inherent in accessing healthcare in Swanton, MD, must be a central consideration for those contemplating a move to the area. The remoteness of the location, coupled with the limited public transportation options, necessitates careful planning and consideration of individual transportation needs.

Prospective residents, particularly those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility, should thoroughly investigate the availability and reliability of transportation options before making a decision. This includes assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities, the feasibility of relying on personal vehicles, and the availability of alternative transportation methods.

**Conclusion: A Complex Equation:**

The overall health score for residents of Swanton, MD, is significantly influenced by the complexities of transportation to healthcare. While the region offers a tranquil and scenic environment, the challenges of navigating its geographical limitations and the limited availability of transportation options necessitate careful consideration.

Drive times to healthcare facilities can be substantial, and the reliance on personal vehicles exposes residents to the vagaries of weather and traffic. Public transit options are limited, and the availability of ride-sharing services is not guaranteed. Medical transport services provide a critical lifeline, but their cost and availability can be a concern.

For those considering moving to Swanton, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. The ability to secure reliable and affordable transportation to healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care. By carefully evaluating these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their health and well-being in this unique and geographically challenging region. The overall health score, therefore, is not just about the quality of healthcare available, but also about the ability to access it effectively and efficiently.