21756, Keedysville, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21756, Keedysville, Maryland is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

24.67 percent of residents in 21756 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meritus Medical Center with a distance of 13.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21756 (Keedysville, MD)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Keedysville, Maryland (ZIP code 21756) requires a multifaceted examination of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options. The ability to reach medical facilities efficiently and reliably is a critical determinant of health outcomes. This analysis delves into the available modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive view for potential residents considering moving to Keedysville.

The primary mode of transportation in this rural area is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on cars, trucks, and SUVs to navigate the region. The major arteries for accessing healthcare are Route 34 (Lappans Road), which connects Keedysville to Hagerstown and surrounding areas, and Route 66, providing access to Interstate 70 (I-70). I-70 is a crucial east-west corridor, offering access to Frederick and Baltimore, where more specialized medical services are available. Drive times to hospitals and medical centers vary considerably based on destination and traffic conditions.

Reaching the nearest hospital, Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown, typically takes around 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic on Route 34. For more specialized care, such as at Frederick Health Hospital in Frederick, the drive time can extend to approximately 45 minutes to an hour via I-70. Baltimore hospitals, like Johns Hopkins Hospital, are accessible within a 1.5-2 hour drive, making these destinations less practical for routine appointments but important for specialized care. The availability of a personal vehicle significantly impacts healthcare access in Keedysville.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. The primary provider is Washington CountyWashington County Transit (WCT), offering bus routes within the county. However, the routes serving Keedysville are infrequent and have limited reach. Route 40, for example, might provide some access to Hagerstown, but the schedule may not align with medical appointment times. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as ramps and lifts, are available on all WCT buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize the service. However, the infrequent service and limited coverage render public transit a less viable option for many residents, particularly for those with urgent medical needs or limited mobility.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be variable. Availability depends on driver density, which can be lower in rural areas like Keedysville. During peak hours or in emergencies, wait times can be significant, and surge pricing can make these services expensive. While ride-sharing offers a potential alternative to personal vehicles, it is not a consistently dependable solution for healthcare transportation.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to address the needs of individuals who cannot drive themselves to appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers. These services cater to individuals with disabilities, mobility limitations, or those requiring specialized medical assistance during transport. However, these services can be costly and often require pre-booking. The availability of medical transport ensures that individuals with specific needs have access to healthcare, but the financial burden and logistical complexities can pose challenges.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Keedysville is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. While the availability of personal vehicles provides a significant advantage, the limited public transit options, the variable reliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport create barriers for some residents. The drive times to hospitals and medical centers, while generally reasonable for routine care, can become problematic in emergencies or for specialized treatments requiring longer travel.

For individuals considering moving to Keedysville, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the practicality of accessing healthcare. The availability of a personal vehicle is a significant advantage, but even car owners should consider the potential for emergencies and the availability of alternative transportation options.

Improving healthcare access in Keedysville could involve several strategies. Expanding public transit routes and frequency, particularly to connect with medical facilities, would benefit many residents. Subsidizing ride-sharing or medical transport services for low-income individuals or those with disabilities could alleviate financial barriers. Promoting community-based transportation programs, such as volunteer driver networks, could provide additional support.

Furthermore, the development of telehealth services and the expansion of telemedicine capabilities could reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for routine consultations and follow-up appointments. These technological advancements would be particularly beneficial for residents of rural areas with limited transportation options.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Keedysville, MD (21756) reflects a mixed picture. While personal vehicles offer the primary means of transportation, the limitations of public transit, the variability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport create challenges for some residents. Careful consideration of individual transportation needs and the potential for future improvements in healthcare access is crucial for those contemplating a move to this community. The availability of healthcare services is a critical factor in assessing the overall quality of life in any community, and Keedysville's residents should be well-informed about the transportation landscape to ensure they can access the care they need.