21717, Buckeystown, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21717, Buckeystown, Maryland is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.73 percent of residents in 21717 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 8.96 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21717 (Buckeystown, Maryland)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In the charming, historic village of Buckeystown, Maryland (ZIP Code 21717), this access hinges on the efficiency and availability of transportation. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering various modes of transport and their impact on residents' ability to reach medical facilities. The score reflects the ease of travel, the options available, and the potential barriers faced by individuals seeking care.

The foundation of healthcare access in Buckeystown is the automobile. Residents predominantly rely on personal vehicles for their transportation needs. The primary arteries for reaching medical facilities are **Interstate 70 (I-70)** and **U.S. Route 15 (US-15)**. These major highways offer relatively quick connections to Frederick, the nearest city with a comprehensive range of healthcare providers. However, the reliance on personal vehicles introduces complexities.

Drive times to medical facilities in Frederick, such as Frederick Health Hospital, can fluctuate significantly. During peak commuting hours, traffic congestion on I-70 and US-15 can extend travel times considerably. A typical off-peak drive might take 15-20 minutes, but during rush hour, this can easily double, potentially impacting the timeliness of emergency care or scheduled appointments. The condition of these highways, including potential construction zones, also influences travel times.

Beyond the immediate vicinity of Buckeystown, the availability of public transportation presents a different picture. The Frederick County Transit (FCT) system, while offering service, has limitations. The primary bus routes servicing the area are not extensive. While the FCT does provide some service to Frederick, the frequency of these routes is generally low, and the routes themselves may not directly serve all medical facilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. The FCT strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair lifts and ramps on its buses. However, the limitations of the route network and the infrequent service can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. The need for transfers and the potential for long wait times further complicate the journey for those relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services are available in Buckeystown and can provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, particularly for low-income individuals or those requiring frequent medical visits. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can also be a concern.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services often provide specialized vehicles equipped with medical equipment and trained personnel. Several medical transport companies serve the Frederick County area. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize other forms of transportation due to medical conditions. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency situations.

The overall "Health Score" for healthcare access in Buckeystown, ZIP Code 21717, is moderate. While the proximity to Frederick offers a reasonable range of healthcare options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further influence the score.

For individuals considering **moving to Buckeystown**, understanding these transportation factors is crucial. Those who prioritize easy access to healthcare should consider their reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the availability of alternative transportation options. Planning for medical appointments, including accounting for travel time and potential delays, is essential.

The availability of convenient and affordable transportation directly impacts health outcomes. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably is paramount for preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and accessing emergency services. Addressing the challenges of transportation to healthcare in Buckeystown, such as improving public transit frequency and route coverage, promoting ride-sharing programs, and ensuring the affordability of medical transport services, would significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" of the community.

The future of healthcare access in Buckeystown may involve technological advancements. Telemedicine, for example, can reduce the need for in-person visits for certain types of care. Expanding access to telehealth services could improve healthcare access for residents, especially those with transportation barriers. Further, the integration of smart technology into transportation systems, such as real-time traffic updates and optimized route planning, could help mitigate the challenges of commuting to medical facilities.

The "Overall Health Score" is not static. It is a dynamic measure influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Regular monitoring of transportation infrastructure, public transit improvements, and the evolving landscape of ride-sharing and medical transport services is essential to ensure that residents of Buckeystown have equitable access to the healthcare they need. This includes assessing the impact of new developments, such as residential growth, on traffic patterns and transportation demand.

The goal is to create a community where healthcare access is not a barrier to well-being. By understanding the transportation challenges and actively seeking solutions, Buckeystown can strive to improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents can receive the timely and appropriate medical care they deserve. This requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, transportation providers, and the community itself.

In conclusion, while Buckeystown benefits from its proximity to Frederick and the availability of various transportation options, the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the potential for traffic congestion on I-70 and US-15 create challenges to healthcare access. A proactive approach, including infrastructure improvements, expanded public transit, and affordable transportation options, is crucial to improving the "Overall Health Score" and ensuring the well-being of the Buckeystown community. The health of a community is intertwined with its ability to access healthcare, and in Buckeystown, addressing the transportation challenges is paramount to fostering a healthier future.