21715, Brownsville, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21715, Brownsville, Maryland is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 21715 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 13.52 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21715 (Brownsville, MD)

Brownsville, Maryland (ZIP Code 21715), nestled in the foothills of South Mountain, offers a tranquil, rural charm. However, its idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: healthcare access. This report assesses the overall health score of the area, considering the accessibility of medical services via various transportation methods. It's a crucial factor for anyone contemplating moving to Brownsville, weighing the benefits of a peaceful lifestyle against the practicalities of reaching a doctor.

The overall health score for 21715 is significantly impacted by the distance and transportation options available to residents. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-share and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the ease (or difficulty) of accessing vital healthcare resources.

Driving is the primary mode of transportation for most residents in Brownsville. The geography dictates this, with the nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities located outside the immediate vicinity. The primary artery is **Maryland Route 17**, which connects Brownsville to the larger towns of Brunswick and Knoxville. Accessing healthcare often means navigating this road, especially during peak hours.

Further afield, **U.S. Route 340** provides a crucial link to Frederick, a regional hub for healthcare. However, this route can experience significant congestion, particularly during the morning and evening commutes. The drive to Frederick, home to Frederick Health Hospital, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This timeframe is critical in emergency situations.

Beyond these main thoroughfares, smaller roads like **Brownsville Road** and **Gapland Road** provide access to local clinics and pharmacies. These roads, while scenic, are often winding and can be challenging to navigate, especially during inclement weather. The condition of these secondary roads also contributes to the overall accessibility score.

Public transportation options in Brownsville are limited. The **Frederick County Transit (TransIT)** system offers some routes, but their frequency and coverage are restricted. Currently, there are no dedicated bus routes that directly serve Brownsville. Residents must typically travel to nearby towns like Brunswick or Knoxville to access TransIT services.

This lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the overall health score. Individuals without personal vehicles, including seniors and those with disabilities, face considerable challenges in accessing healthcare. The absence of a reliable public transit system necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, often at a higher cost.

The availability of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on public transit is also a crucial factor. While TransIT strives to provide accessible services, the limited routes and potential transfer requirements can create difficulties for individuals with mobility limitations. The lack of direct routes to medical facilities compounds these challenges.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Brownsville area. However, their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which can be lower in rural areas. The cost of ride-share services for trips to Frederick or other healthcare destinations can be substantial, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **CareRide** and **FirstCall Medical Transportation** operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing, but they offer a higher level of support, including door-to-door assistance and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

The overall health score is influenced by the availability and affordability of these medical transport services. The ability to secure reliable transportation for scheduled appointments and emergencies is paramount. The need for advance booking and potential wait times associated with these services also impact the overall accessibility score.

When assessing the overall health score, the proximity of emergency services is also considered. The nearest emergency rooms are located in Frederick and Hagerstown, requiring a drive. The time it takes to reach these facilities is a critical factor in determining the overall health score. The potential for delays due to traffic or road conditions must also be factored into the assessment.

The lack of readily available healthcare facilities within Brownsville itself further compounds the transportation challenges. The absence of a local urgent care center or a primary care physician's office necessitates travel for even routine medical needs. This reality underscores the importance of reliable transportation options for residents.

For those considering moving to Brownsville, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. The benefits of a rural lifestyle must be weighed against the potential difficulties of accessing medical services. Careful planning and consideration of transportation alternatives are essential.

The overall health score for 21715 reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. While the area offers a peaceful setting, the limited transportation options and the distance to medical facilities present significant hurdles. The score is lower than that of urban areas with robust public transit and readily available healthcare services.

The overall health score is not static; it can be improved. Increased investment in public transit, particularly routes connecting Brownsville to healthcare hubs, would significantly enhance accessibility. Encouraging ride-share and medical transport services to expand their presence in the area would also improve the score.

Furthermore, the development of telehealth services, offering remote consultations and monitoring, could mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Promoting community initiatives that support transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities would also be beneficial.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Brownsville reflects a complex interplay of geographical factors, transportation infrastructure, and the availability of healthcare services. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle for many, potential residents must carefully consider the implications of limited healthcare access when making their decision. The ability to secure reliable and affordable transportation is paramount to maintaining good health and well-being in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.