21702, Frederick, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21702, Frederick, Maryland is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.26 percent of residents in 21702 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 2.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21702

Understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial when considering a move, and in ZIP Code 21702 (Frederick, Maryland), transportation plays a pivotal role in determining your overall health score. This assessment delves into the accessibility of medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. It paints a comprehensive picture, helping prospective residents evaluate the ease with which they can access vital healthcare services.

The primary arteries for navigating Frederick are Interstate 70 (I-70) and Interstate 270 (I-270). These highways are critical for accessing healthcare facilities both within and outside the ZIP code. Frederick Health Hospital, the primary hospital in the area, is conveniently located near I-70, making it easily accessible for many residents. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times, potentially affecting the health score.

For residents in the more northern parts of 21702, accessing healthcare might involve navigating US Route 15 (US-15). This road, while offering direct access to the city center, can also experience heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. Residents should factor in potential delays when planning appointments or in case of emergencies. The proximity to these major roadways is a double-edged sword, offering convenience but also the potential for delays.

Beyond the main highways, the network of local roads, including MD-355 (Urbana Pike) and various county roads, connects residents to a variety of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics. These local roads, while generally less congested than the interstates, can still be affected by traffic, especially during school hours or in areas with significant residential development.

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid traffic. The Frederick County Transit (The FRED) provides bus service throughout the county, including routes that connect residential areas within 21702 to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes and the overall coverage can be limited, potentially impacting healthcare access for some residents.

The FRED offers several routes that directly serve healthcare facilities, including Frederick Health Hospital and various medical offices. Route 80, for example, provides service to the hospital and other key locations. The FRED also aims to provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. Despite these efforts, the reliance on public transit can still present challenges, especially for those with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option for accessing healthcare. These services are readily available in Frederick and provide a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services can also vary depending on the time of day and the demand, potentially impacting the reliability of this transportation option.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients are also available in the area. These services, often offered by private companies, provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit, making them less accessible for some residents.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 21702 is a complex calculation. It considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. While the proximity to major highways like I-70 and I-270 offers convenient access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion can negatively impact drive times. The FRED provides a public transit alternative, but its frequency and coverage are limited. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer additional options, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors.

For those considering moving to Frederick, understanding these transportation factors is crucial. The ease with which you can access healthcare is a vital component of your overall well-being. Carefully assess your individual needs and preferences when evaluating the health score. Consider your reliance on personal vehicles, your willingness to use public transit, and your budget for transportation.

The health score is not static. It can fluctuate based on traffic conditions, the expansion of public transit routes, and the evolving availability of ride-sharing services. Staying informed about these changes is essential for maintaining a high health score. Monitoring traffic patterns, reviewing public transit schedules, and exploring the latest ride-sharing options can help you optimize your healthcare access.

Ultimately, the overall health score in 21702 reflects a balance between accessibility and convenience. While the area offers a variety of transportation options for accessing healthcare, the optimal choice will depend on your individual circumstances. Careful consideration of these factors will help you make an informed decision about whether 21702 is the right place for you, ensuring you can readily access the healthcare you need. This is a critical aspect of moving to Frederick.