21771, Mount Airy, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21771, Mount Airy, Maryland is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.75 percent of residents in 21771 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 14.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21771 (Mount Airy, Maryland)

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is crucial when considering a move, and this assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 21771, Mount Airy, Maryland. This analysis considers the multifaceted nature of transportation options, drive times, and the availability of healthcare facilities, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access in this community. The score reflects the potential challenges and advantages residents face when seeking medical care.

The score is not a numerical value, but a narrative assessment, examining the ease of reaching various healthcare providers, from primary care physicians to specialized medical facilities. It considers the time, cost, and convenience of available transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. This evaluation is vital for anyone considering moving to Mount Airy, helping them understand the practical realities of healthcare access.

**Drive Time and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare in Mount Airy is the personal vehicle. The town's location, straddling Carroll and Frederick counties, influences healthcare access. Residents primarily utilize Interstate 70 (I-70) and Maryland Route 27 (MD-27) for travel. I-70 provides east-west access, while MD-27 serves as a crucial north-south artery.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly based on location within the ZIP code and the destination. For instance, reaching Frederick Health Hospital in Frederick, MD, a major regional hospital, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes via I-70 West. This journey, while manageable, can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Accessing facilities in Westminster, MD, such as Carroll Hospital, involves traveling on MD-27 North and potentially MD-140, with drive times ranging from 25 to 40 minutes. This route may also experience traffic delays, especially during rush hour. Local clinics and doctor's offices within Mount Airy are generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive, offering convenient primary care options.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options within Mount Airy are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly serve Mount Airy with fixed-route bus services. However, the Carroll CountyCarroll County Transit System (CCATS) provides some limited public transit options.

CCATS offers demand-response services, requiring advance reservations, for residents needing transportation within Carroll County. These services, while potentially useful for reaching medical appointments, are not a readily available, on-demand solution. ADA-accessible vehicles are available through CCATS, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The lack of extensive public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for residents who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This limitation emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative transportation options, especially when considering moving to Mount Airy.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Mount Airy, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare access can be expensive and may require advance planning.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs, including those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including FirstCall Medical Transportation and MedStar Mobile Healthcare. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often coordinating with healthcare providers to ensure timely and safe arrival.

The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and may not be covered by all insurance plans. However, these services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical conditions that prevent them from using other transportation options.

**Healthcare Facility Availability:**

Mount Airy itself offers a range of healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, dental practices, and urgent care centers. However, access to specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often requires travel to larger medical centers in Frederick or Westminster.

The proximity to Frederick Health Hospital and Carroll Hospital provides residents with access to comprehensive medical services. These hospitals offer a wide range of specialties, including emergency care, inpatient services, and outpatient clinics. However, the drive times to these facilities, as previously mentioned, should be considered.

The availability of healthcare providers within Mount Airy is generally good for basic medical needs, but specialized care requires travel. This factor is crucial when evaluating the overall health score for the community.

**Impact on Overall Health Score:**

The Overall Health Score for ZIP Code 21771 is influenced by a combination of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, coupled with the limited public transit options, presents a challenge for those without access to a car. Drive times to major hospitals and specialized medical facilities can be significant, particularly during peak traffic hours.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides alternative transportation options, but the cost and availability of these services can be limiting. The presence of local clinics and doctor's offices within Mount Airy offers convenient primary care options, but specialized care often necessitates travel.

The overall health score for Mount Airy, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the community offers convenient access to primary care and the availability of alternative transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the travel times to specialized medical facilities can create challenges.

**Conclusion:**

For individuals considering moving to Mount Airy, a thorough understanding of healthcare access is crucial. The Overall Health Score reflects the need to consider transportation options, drive times, and the availability of healthcare facilities. While Mount Airy offers a desirable quality of life, the practicalities of accessing healthcare should be carefully evaluated.

The limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles highlight the importance of having reliable transportation. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternatives, but these options may not be suitable for everyone.

Ultimately, the Overall Health Score for ZIP Code 21771 emphasizes the need for residents to plan their healthcare access carefully, considering their individual needs and circumstances. Understanding the transportation landscape and the location of healthcare providers will empower residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.