21780, Sabillasville, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21780, Sabillasville, Maryland is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.81 percent of residents in 21780 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meritus Medical Center with a distance of 12.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Sabillasville, MD (ZIP Code 21780)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Sabillasville, Maryland (ZIP Code 21780) necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of their ability to access healthcare services. A critical component of this assessment is the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options available to them. This write-up delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape for those considering **moving to Sabillasville** or already residing within its boundaries.

The geographical location of Sabillasville, nestled in the northern reaches of Frederick County, presents both advantages and disadvantages when it comes to healthcare access. The town's relative proximity to larger population centers like Frederick and Gettysburg offers a wider range of medical options. However, its rural setting also means that residents often face longer travel times and limited public transportation choices. This is a crucial factor to consider when evaluating the overall health score of the community.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For many Sabillasville residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The most direct routes to larger medical facilities in Frederick typically involve navigating a combination of local roads and highways. Traveling south on **Maryland Route 800** (also known as Sabillasville Road) provides the initial link to the broader road network. This road then connects to **Maryland Route 77** (also known as Rocky Ridge Road) which then leads to **U.S. Route 15**.

From U.S. Route 15, travelers can then proceed south towards Frederick. The drive from Sabillasville to Frederick, a distance of approximately 20 miles, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Rush hour, especially on U.S. Route 15, can significantly extend this travel time. The same holds true when going north towards Gettysburg, PA, where the drive is a similar distance, but may be subject to seasonal weather conditions.

Alternatively, residents may choose to access healthcare facilities in Emmitsburg, which is closer in proximity. The drive to Emmitsburg is typically shorter, taking approximately 15 to 20 minutes, utilizing **Maryland Route 800** and **Maryland Route 140**. However, the medical options in Emmitsburg are generally more limited than those available in Frederick. The reliability of these travel times is crucial.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Sabillasville are limited, which significantly impacts the healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Frederick County Transit System (FCTS) provides some service within the county, but the routes serving Sabillasville are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

The FCTS does operate the **Route 80** bus service, which travels through the area. However, this route operates on a limited schedule, with fewer trips during evenings and weekends. This can pose a significant challenge for residents needing to attend appointments outside of standard business hours. Furthermore, the frequency of service may require long wait times, making it difficult to coordinate with medical appointments.

The FCTS does provide ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route options and infrequent service can still present barriers. The availability of accessible transportation is a positive aspect, but its effectiveness is diminished by the overall constraints of the public transit system.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Sabillasville area, providing another option for residents seeking transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with multiple appointments or limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare and other private companies, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility devices and medical equipment. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options. They are generally utilized for individuals with significant mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical attention during transport.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for Sabillasville residents is significantly influenced by the challenges associated with healthcare access. While the town's location offers proximity to medical facilities in Frederick and Gettysburg, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create barriers for many.

The extended drive times, particularly during peak traffic hours, can lead to missed appointments, delayed care, and increased stress for patients. The infrequent public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges. These factors are important to consider for those **moving to Sabillasville**.

The availability of medical transport services offers a vital lifeline for individuals with specific needs, but the cost and pre-booking requirements may limit their accessibility. The overall assessment indicates that healthcare access in Sabillasville is moderate. While options exist, they are not always readily available or affordable for all residents.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding public transit routes and increasing service frequency would significantly enhance healthcare access. Promoting ride-sharing programs and providing financial assistance for transportation could also help. Furthermore, community initiatives to facilitate carpooling or establish volunteer driver programs could be beneficial.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Sabillasville reflects the complex interplay of geographical location, transportation infrastructure, and the availability of healthcare services. Improving healthcare access requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the specific needs of the community and promotes equitable access to care for all residents. This is crucial for the health and well-being of those who call Sabillasville home.