21613, Cambridge, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21613, Cambridge, Maryland is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.26 percent of residents in 21613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Center At Easton with a distance of 14.35 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21613

Cambridge, Maryland (ZIP code 21613), a charming Eastern Shore town, offers a unique blend of historical allure and modern convenience. However, assessing its overall health score requires a critical examination of a fundamental aspect of well-being: access to healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, a crucial factor influencing their health outcomes.

The cornerstone of any health score is the ability to *access* care. For residents of 21613, this primarily translates to navigating the local transportation infrastructure. The geography of Cambridge, situated on the Choptank River, necessitates reliance on roadways for most medical appointments. The primary artery is Route 50, a major east-west thoroughfare connecting the Eastern Shore to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and beyond. Route 50 provides a direct route to Easton, Maryland, home to University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton, a regional hospital. The drive, typically taking around 30-45 minutes, is a significant factor in the overall health score.

Beyond Route 50, residents utilize a network of smaller roads, including Route 16, providing access to nearby towns and medical practices. Route 16, while offering a more scenic route, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times to healthcare facilities. These secondary roads contribute to the overall transportation matrix, influencing the accessibility of healthcare services. The condition of these roads, including maintenance and traffic flow, directly affects the health score.

Public transportation options in Cambridge are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Dorchester County Department of Transportation (DCDOT) operates a demand-response system, providing transportation within Dorchester County. However, this service requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. The DCDOT system, while attempting to serve the community, faces challenges in terms of frequency, coverage, and the ability to accommodate unpredictable healthcare appointments. This reliance on a demand-response system, rather than fixed-route public transit, is a significant point of consideration when assessing the health score.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offers an alternative for those unable to drive or access public transportation. However, the presence and reliability of these services in Cambridge can fluctuate. Ride-sharing availability is often influenced by driver density and demand, which can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This variability introduces uncertainty into the healthcare access equation, impacting the overall health score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, provide another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like CareRide and MedRide specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, catering to individuals with mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, potentially impacting their ability to access necessary care. The availability and affordability of medical transportation services are critical factors in evaluating the health score.

For individuals *moving to Cambridge*, understanding these transportation nuances is crucial. The health score is directly impacted by the ability to reach medical providers. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the affordability of services all contribute to the overall health score. The health score, therefore, serves as a vital indicator of the community's capacity to support the health and well-being of its residents.

The presence of a local hospital, such as University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Cambridge, is a significant asset. This facility provides a range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and specialized treatments. However, even with a local hospital, the reliance on transportation to access specialized care, such as oncology or cardiology, remains a factor. The health score must account for the travel time and transportation challenges associated with accessing these crucial services.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of public transportation and ride-sharing services is a crucial element of the health score. Ensuring that individuals with disabilities can easily access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of community health. The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles, accessible routes, and trained personnel are essential for promoting equitable healthcare access. The health score should reflect the degree to which the transportation infrastructure supports the needs of all residents, including those with disabilities.

The health score also considers the availability of preventative care. Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations are essential for maintaining good health. The ease with which residents can access these services, considering transportation factors, directly influences their health outcomes. The health score should reflect the community's commitment to preventative care and the ability of residents to participate in these essential health practices.

The overall health score for 21613, therefore, is a complex calculation. It weighs the availability of healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, the affordability of services, and the accessibility for all residents. While Cambridge offers a desirable lifestyle, the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access must be carefully considered. The health score serves as a valuable tool for residents, policymakers, and healthcare providers, highlighting areas for improvement and informing decisions related to community health.

The health score is not static; it evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and community demographics. Regular assessments are essential to ensure that the health score accurately reflects the community's ability to support the health and well-being of its residents. The health score is more than just a number; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing equitable and accessible healthcare for all.