21643, Hurlock, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21643, Hurlock, Maryland is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.73 percent of residents in 21643 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Center At Easton with a distance of 14.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Hurlock, Maryland (ZIP Code 21643)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, most notably healthcare. For residents of Hurlock, Maryland (ZIP Code 21643), this access is significantly influenced by the available transportation options. This analysis, generating an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Hurlock, considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for those contemplating moving to Hurlock and assessing their future healthcare access.

The geographical reality of Hurlock dictates a reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare needs. The town is nestled in Dorchester County, a predominantly rural area where public transportation options are limited. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Hurlock involve navigating the network of roads and highways.

The most direct route to larger healthcare providers, such as those in Easton, Maryland, often involves traveling west on Maryland Route 50, also known as the Ocean Gateway. This highway provides a relatively efficient corridor, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and weekends, can significantly extend travel times. The drive to Easton, a major regional hub for healthcare, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

Alternatively, residents may utilize Maryland Route 335, a more local road that provides access to nearby towns and healthcare facilities. This route offers a slower, more scenic drive, but can be subject to delays due to stop signs and lower speed limits. The drive time on Route 335 to the nearest healthcare facilities could be between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the destination and traffic conditions.

The availability of public transportation in Hurlock presents a significant challenge to healthcare access. The Dorchester County Department of Transportation (DCDOT) operates a limited bus service, but it is primarily designed for local travel and lacks the frequency and reach necessary for convenient access to healthcare facilities outside of Hurlock. These buses have limited routes and do not have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features.

The DCDOT bus service, while offering a lifeline for some, is not a viable option for the majority of Hurlock residents seeking healthcare. The infrequent schedules and limited destinations make it difficult to schedule appointments and ensure timely arrival. This lack of comprehensive public transit significantly impacts the overall health score for healthcare access in the area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hurlock area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled outside of standard business hours, is not guaranteed. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for individuals with limited financial resources, further exacerbating healthcare access disparities.

Medical transportation services provide a crucial safety net for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs that preclude them from driving or using public transportation. Several medical transport providers operate in the Hurlock area, offering services such as ambulance transport and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are essential for ensuring that individuals can access healthcare facilities, but they can also be expensive, and the need to schedule in advance can be a challenge.

The availability of medical transport services is a critical factor in assessing the overall health score for healthcare access in Hurlock. These services bridge the gap for individuals who cannot drive or utilize other transportation options. The efficiency, cost, and availability of these services directly impact the community's ability to receive timely medical care.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Hurlock, Maryland (ZIP Code 21643) is significantly impacted by the limitations of transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the variability of ride-sharing services create challenges for residents seeking healthcare. While medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for some, the cost and scheduling complexities add to the overall challenges.

When considering moving to Hurlock, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to healthcare. The geographical isolation and limited public transit options make it crucial to assess the availability of reliable transportation for medical appointments, prescriptions, and other healthcare-related needs.

The overall health score, therefore, is moderate. The availability of personal vehicles and medical transport services provides a baseline level of access, but the lack of robust public transit and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services limit the overall score.

To improve the overall health score for healthcare access in Hurlock, investments in public transportation are crucial. Expanding the DCDOT bus service, improving route frequency, and incorporating ADA-compliant features would significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents.

Furthermore, initiatives to promote ride-sharing programs, particularly for medical appointments, and explore partnerships with medical transport providers to reduce costs and improve accessibility would be beneficial.

The development of a comprehensive transportation plan that prioritizes healthcare access would not only improve the overall health score but also contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community.