21787, Taneytown, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21787, Taneytown, Maryland is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.15 percent of residents in 21787 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carroll Hospital Center with a distance of 11.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21787 (Taneytown, MD)

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount when considering a move, especially to a new community like Taneytown, Maryland (ZIP Code 21787). This comprehensive assessment evaluates the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access, providing an “Overall Health Score” reflecting the practical realities of seeking medical attention within and around this locale. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a nuanced picture for prospective residents.

Taneytown's location in Carroll County, while offering a charming small-town atmosphere, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The town's relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. The "Overall Health Score" for 21787 is significantly influenced by the availability and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers factors like travel time, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and the cost of various transportation methods.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation in Taneytown is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this option directly impacts the "Overall Health Score." Residents rely heavily on roadways to reach hospitals, clinics, and specialists. Key routes include Maryland Route 140, the primary thoroughfare connecting Taneytown to Westminster and points east. Driving west on Route 140 leads to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

For those seeking more specialized care, the drive times to larger medical centers become crucial. The drive to Carroll Hospital Center in Westminster, the closest full-service hospital, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey primarily involves navigating Route 140.

Reaching larger hospitals in Baltimore or Frederick, Maryland, extends travel times considerably. A trip to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, for instance, can take upwards of an hour, utilizing Interstate 795 and the Baltimore Beltway (I-695). Similarly, accessing Frederick Health Hospital in Frederick involves a 30-45 minute drive, primarily on Route 140 and US-15. These longer drive times can negatively impact the "Overall Health Score," especially for those requiring urgent care or frequent medical appointments.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Taneytown are limited, posing a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Carroll County Transit system provides some service within the county, but its routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities.

The availability of accessible public transportation is another crucial factor. The Carroll County Transit system aims to provide ADA-compliant services, including lift-equipped buses for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can still create significant barriers to healthcare access. Residents relying on public transportation may face lengthy travel times and potential delays, further impacting the "Overall Health Score."

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Taneytown, offering an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, their availability and cost can vary, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver coverage. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a factor considered in the "Overall Health Score."

Specialized medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring assistance getting to medical appointments. These services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare or local private providers, offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel. While these services can be invaluable, they can also be expensive, potentially impacting the "Overall Health Score" for those with limited financial resources.

**Assessing the “Overall Health Score”**

The "Overall Health Score" for 21787 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Carroll Hospital Center offers convenient access to basic medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The longer drive times to specialized medical facilities in Baltimore and Frederick further impact the score.

The availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport provides crucial alternatives, but their cost and reliability must be considered. The "Overall Health Score" is therefore moderate, reflecting the need for residents to carefully plan their transportation to healthcare appointments.

**Impact on Moving to Taneytown**

For individuals considering moving to Taneytown, understanding the "Overall Health Score" is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. Those without personal vehicles, or with mobility limitations, should investigate the availability and cost of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

When moving to Taneytown, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. The "Overall Health Score" provides a valuable framework for making informed decisions about healthcare needs and ensuring a smooth transition to the community. Residents should also explore local resources, such as senior centers and disability services, which may offer assistance with transportation to medical appointments.

**Conclusion**

The "Overall Health Score" for 21787 highlights the importance of transportation in accessing healthcare. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and plan accordingly. Understanding the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to ride-sharing and medical transport, is key to ensuring access to necessary medical care. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for navigating the healthcare landscape in Taneytown and making informed decisions about moving to this charming community.