21649, Marydel, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21649, Marydel, Maryland is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.62 percent of residents in 21649 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Ctr At Chestertown with a distance of 15.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Marydel, MD (ZIP Code 21649)

Embarking on a journey to assess the overall health score for residents of Marydel, Maryland (ZIP code 21649), necessitates a deep dive into the critical element of healthcare access. This analysis will focus on the transportation infrastructure available, its impact on the ability to reach medical facilities, and ultimately, its influence on the overall well-being of the community. Considering the rural nature of Marydel, transportation options are a key consideration when moving to Marydel.

Marydel, nestled in the heart of the Eastern Shore, presents a unique challenge. Its relative isolation, while offering tranquility, also means that healthcare access is heavily reliant on personal transportation. The absence of a robust public transit system and the distances to major medical centers contribute to the complexity of this assessment. Therefore, the ability to navigate the roads and access alternative transportation methods becomes paramount in determining the health score.

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Marydel are Route 300 and Route 302. Route 300 serves as the primary east-west connector, linking Marydel to the larger towns of Chestertown to the east and the more populated areas of Maryland’s western shore. Route 302, running north-south, provides access to the Delaware state line and connects to Route 13, a major north-south thoroughfare.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor. The closest hospitals are located in Chestertown (UM Shore Medical Center at Chestertown) and Dover, Delaware (Bayhealth Kent Campus). Reaching UM Shore Medical Center at Chestertown, approximately 20 miles east via Route 300, could take around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. The drive to Bayhealth Kent Campus, roughly 30 miles north via Route 302 and then Route 13, might require a 45-minute to an hour-long commute, potentially longer during peak traffic hours.

The availability of public transit is a crucial component of healthcare access, especially for those who do not drive or are unable to do so. Unfortunately, the public transportation options in Marydel are extremely limited. The absence of a dedicated bus route serving the immediate area creates a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles. The lack of a readily available public transportation system exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While traditional public transit is scarce, alternative transportation options exist, though their availability and reliability should be considered. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the region, but their presence in Marydel may be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a deterrent, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services are designed to bridge the gap for those needing specialized assistance. Companies like MedStar Mobile Healthcare and others offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service for individuals with mobility challenges or other medical needs. These services, while valuable, often require advance booking and may have associated costs that can be a burden for some residents.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for any transportation option. While ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers typically offer accessible vehicles, the availability of these vehicles can be limited. The absence of ADA-compliant features on any potential public transit options is a major concern, further hindering healthcare access for individuals with disabilities.

The overall health score for Marydel residents is significantly impacted by the transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit options, creates a situation where healthcare access is dependent on individual mobility and resources. The distance to medical facilities, combined with potential traffic delays, can further exacerbate the challenges, particularly for those with urgent medical needs.

When considering moving to Marydel, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess the availability of healthcare services. The lack of convenient public transit, the potential reliance on ride-sharing services, and the need for personal vehicles underscore the importance of planning and preparedness. Individuals with mobility limitations or other health concerns should investigate medical transportation options and consider the potential costs and logistical challenges.

The availability of healthcare providers within Marydel itself is also a crucial factor. While the focus here is on transportation, the presence of local clinics, primary care physicians, and other healthcare professionals can significantly reduce the burden of travel. The more healthcare services available locally, the less reliance there is on long-distance travel.

The overall health score for Marydel is not solely determined by transportation. Other factors, such as access to healthy food, opportunities for physical activity, and the availability of social support networks, also contribute to the overall well-being of the community. However, the ability to access healthcare services is a fundamental requirement for maintaining health and preventing illness.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in Marydel presents both challenges and opportunities. The absence of a robust public transit system and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers to healthcare access. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers offers some alternatives, but their reliability and cost can be limiting factors. The overall health score for Marydel residents is directly influenced by the ability to overcome these transportation hurdles and to access the healthcare services they need. As the community evolves, addressing the transportation challenges and improving healthcare access should remain a priority to ensure the well-being of all residents.