21782, Sharpsburg, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21782, Sharpsburg, Maryland is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.39 percent of residents in 21782 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meritus Medical Center with a distance of 15.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Sharpsburg, MD (ZIP Code 21782)

Sharpsburg, Maryland, nestled in the embrace of the Antietam Creek, offers a picturesque and historically rich environment. However, the serenity of this small town must be balanced against the practicalities of daily life, particularly when it comes to healthcare access. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the complexities of transportation and its impact on residents' ability to reach necessary medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, offering a nuanced understanding for those considering moving to Sharpsburg or seeking to improve their health outcomes.

The "Overall Health Score" for Sharpsburg is contingent on the ability of residents to efficiently and reliably access healthcare facilities. Transportation, in all its forms, is the critical link. Factors such as distance, road conditions, public transit availability, and the presence of alternative transport options significantly influence this score. The score is not a single number but a composite of various elements, allowing for a more holistic evaluation.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Sharpsburg is the personal vehicle. The town's location, while beautiful, presents challenges. Residents rely on a network of roads to reach medical providers in neighboring towns and cities. The most direct route often involves traversing the scenic but sometimes congested roads.

The primary artery connecting Sharpsburg to major healthcare hubs is **Maryland Route 34**, also known as the Sharpsburg Pike. This road provides access to Hagerstown to the north and Boonsboro to the south. Traveling north on Route 34, residents can reach Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown, a comprehensive healthcare facility. The drive typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Southbound on Route 34, the journey to Boonsboro offers access to smaller clinics and medical offices. This trip is generally shorter, around 10 to 15 minutes. However, these facilities may not offer the full spectrum of specialized care available at larger hospitals.

Other roads, such as **Maryland Route 65** (the Sharpsburg Pike) and **Maryland Route 68** (the National Pike), provide alternative routes. However, these roads can be less direct and may involve navigating through rural areas with limited lighting and potential for wildlife encounters, particularly at night. **Interstate 70** is accessible via Route 68, but this adds significant travel time to reach destinations further east.

The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times and safety. Snow, ice, and heavy rain can create hazardous conditions, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare. The "Overall Health Score" considers these factors, recognizing the importance of reliable road infrastructure.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in Sharpsburg is limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider for the region is the Washington CountyWashington County Transit (WCT). However, WCT's service area primarily focuses on Hagerstown and surrounding areas.

While WCT does offer routes that extend to areas near Sharpsburg, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not directly serve the town. Residents may need to travel to a central hub, such as Hagerstown, to access a bus route. The route numbers and schedules are subject to change.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the WCT buses is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments. All WCT buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the availability of accessible routes and the distance to bus stops from residents' homes remain significant considerations.

The lack of robust public transit options significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score" for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The rise of ride-sharing services has offered a potential solution to the transportation challenges in Sharpsburg. Services such as Uber and Lyft are available in the area, although their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations.

The reliability of ride-sharing services for healthcare appointments is a critical factor. While convenient, these services are subject to driver availability, surge pricing, and potential delays. Residents should plan accordingly and consider booking rides in advance to ensure timely arrival at medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare and other private ambulance companies, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient needs.

The availability and cost of medical transport services are essential considerations. While these services provide a vital lifeline for some residents, they can be expensive and may require pre-authorization or insurance coverage. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the role of these services, but the cost and accessibility limitations affect the overall rating.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Sharpsburg, MD (ZIP Code 21782) is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges.

The score is positively influenced by the relatively short drive times to healthcare providers in Hagerstown and Boonsboro. However, the limited public transit, the potential for unreliable ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services negatively impact the score.

For individuals considering moving to Sharpsburg, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and plan accordingly.

The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Sharpsburg. It highlights the importance of transportation infrastructure, the need for accessible and affordable transportation solutions, and the impact these factors have on the health and well-being of the community. Improving the "Overall Health Score" would require investments in public transit, initiatives to promote ride-sharing availability, and support for affordable medical transport services. This would ultimately enhance the quality of life for all residents of Sharpsburg.