21653, Newcomb, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21653, Newcomb, Maryland is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.95 percent of residents in 21653 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Center At Easton with a distance of 5.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21653

Navigating the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 21653, Newcomb, Maryland, demands careful consideration of **transportation** options. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of healthcare services, factoring in commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transport solutions. Understanding these elements is crucial, especially for individuals and families **moving to Newcomb**, ensuring seamless **healthcare access** and promoting overall well-being.

The primary concern is the geographic isolation of Newcomb, situated in a rural area. This remoteness directly impacts the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. The "Overall Health Score" reflects this reality, acknowledging the challenges inherent in accessing timely and appropriate care. The score is not a single number, but a composite evaluation, weighing various factors to provide a comprehensive picture of the situation.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries connecting Newcomb to healthcare providers are US Route 50, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Maryland Route 404, which provides a north-south connection. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours and weekends. Reaching the nearest hospitals, like University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton, necessitates a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves navigating US Route 50, which can experience congestion, especially around the Easton area.

For specialist appointments or emergency care, residents may need to travel further. Baltimore, with its concentration of medical facilities, is roughly a 1.5-2 hour drive via US Route 50 and I-97. This extended travel time underscores the potential for delays and the importance of pre-planning medical appointments. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also significantly impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Newcomb are limited. The primary provider is the Talbot County Transit, offering fixed-route and demand-response services. However, these services are infrequent and primarily focus on local travel within Talbot County. The routes are not designed to facilitate easy access to regional healthcare facilities.

Currently, there are no direct public transit routes that connect Newcomb to hospitals or major medical centers outside of Talbot County. This lack of accessible public **transportation** poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The absence of frequent and reliable public transit significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score" for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on the existing public transit is crucial. Ensuring accessible vehicles and routes is paramount for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited scope of the public transit system in Newcomb raises concerns about its ability to adequately serve the needs of all residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which can be lower in rural areas. The expense of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) providers, offer a specialized solution. Companies like LogistiCare and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) often contract with insurance companies to provide rides to medical appointments. These services can be a valuable resource, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those who lack other **transportation** options.

However, eligibility for NEMT services is typically determined by insurance coverage and medical necessity. The availability of these services and the ease of scheduling appointments can also vary. The "Overall Health Score" must consider the reliance on these specialized services and the potential for limitations in their availability.

**Overall Health Score Implications:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 21653 is moderate, reflecting the challenges associated with **transportation** and **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for variable ride-sharing availability contribute to a less-than-ideal situation.

Individuals **moving to Newcomb** must carefully consider these factors when evaluating their healthcare needs. Proactive planning, including understanding drive times, exploring ride-sharing options, and investigating NEMT services, is essential. The score is not static; it can be improved through community initiatives, such as advocating for expanded public transit or supporting programs that address **transportation** barriers.

The score also highlights the importance of telehealth services. Telemedicine can bridge the gap by providing remote access to medical consultations and some types of care. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on reliable internet access, which may be a concern in some rural areas.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several actions are recommended. First, advocating for expanded public transit options, including routes connecting Newcomb to regional healthcare facilities, is crucial. This could involve partnering with neighboring counties or exploring grant opportunities to fund new services.

Second, promoting the availability and awareness of ride-sharing and NEMT services is essential. This could involve community outreach programs, providing information about eligibility requirements, and assisting residents in accessing these services.

Third, supporting the development of telehealth infrastructure and promoting its use can significantly enhance **healthcare access**. This includes ensuring reliable internet access and providing training on how to use telehealth platforms.

Finally, residents should actively engage in preventative healthcare measures, such as regular check-ups and screenings, to mitigate the impact of potential **transportation** challenges. Proactive health management can reduce the need for frequent travel to medical facilities.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 21653 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While challenges exist, proactive planning, community involvement, and the adoption of innovative solutions can improve **healthcare access** and promote the well-being of residents **moving to Newcomb**. The journey to better health requires a multifaceted approach, addressing both the physical and logistical barriers to care.