21801, Salisbury, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21801, Salisbury, Maryland is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.16 percent of residents in 21801 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21801

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP Code 21801, encompassing the heart of Salisbury, Maryland, a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access requires a deep dive into the transportation landscape. This analysis, resulting in an "Overall Health Score," considers the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, impacting their physical and mental well-being. For individuals considering moving to Salisbury, this score offers a critical insight into the practicalities of maintaining their health.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in 21801 are US-50, the major east-west thoroughfare, and US-13, running north-south. These highways, while providing swift access to destinations beyond Salisbury, can also become congested, particularly during peak hours. Delays can significantly impact healthcare access, turning a short drive into a stressful and potentially life-threatening ordeal. Local roads like Salisbury Parkway and Riverside Drive offer alternative routes, but they are often slower and subject to traffic lights and residential congestion.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the location within 21801 and the specific facility. Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC), the primary hospital, is a central hub, generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive for most residents. However, reaching specialized clinics or urgent care facilities located on the periphery of the city, or in neighboring towns like Fruitland or Delmar, could extend travel times to 20-30 minutes, or even longer during rush hour. This variability underscores the importance of considering commute times when choosing a residence and healthcare providers.

Public transportation, managed by the Salisbury-Wicomico County Transportation (SWCT), offers an alternative to driving. The SWCT operates several fixed routes, including Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3, connecting key areas within Salisbury. These routes, while providing access to some medical facilities, may not directly serve all clinics or offer convenient connections. Furthermore, frequency can be limited, with buses running on a schedule that may not align with medical appointment times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor in evaluating public transit. SWCT buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system for individuals with mobility challenges remain concerns. The integration of public transit with healthcare access needs improvement to ensure equitable access for all residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services can provide on-demand rides to medical appointments, offering greater flexibility than fixed-route buses. However, the availability of ride-sharing services in Salisbury, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas, can be inconsistent. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for low-income residents, limiting their healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Brands like Ambulance Service Inc. or private medical transport companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). However, the availability of these services, especially for non-emergency appointments, and the associated costs, are important considerations.

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 21801 reflects a mixed picture. While PRMC offers a central hub, the reliance on personal vehicles, potential traffic congestion, limited public transit options, and the variability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create challenges. The score is influenced by factors such as the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of various transportation modes, and the affordability of these options.

The score also considers the specific needs of vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The availability of accessible transportation, affordable ride-sharing options, and subsidized medical transportation programs directly impacts their ability to access healthcare. Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving the overall health of the community.

The physical and mental well-being of residents is directly affected by the ease with which they can reach medical care. Stress associated with long commutes, unreliable transportation, and financial burdens can negatively impact health outcomes. Conversely, convenient and affordable transportation options can promote preventative care, early diagnosis, and timely treatment, leading to better health outcomes and an improved quality of life.

For individuals considering moving to Salisbury, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs, considering the location of healthcare providers, the availability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport. This information will help them make informed decisions about where to live and how to access healthcare.

The Overall Health Score is not static; it can be improved through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure and services. Enhancements to public transit, such as increased frequency, expanded routes, and improved accessibility, would significantly benefit the community. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income residents and expanding medical transportation programs would also enhance healthcare access.

Moreover, promoting partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services can streamline the process of accessing medical care. Coordinating appointment scheduling with transportation options and providing information about available resources can improve the patient experience and reduce barriers to care.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 21801 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While PRMC provides a central point of care, challenges remain in terms of transportation. By addressing these challenges through strategic investments, improved public transit, and innovative partnerships, Salisbury can improve its Overall Health Score and create a healthier community for all its residents. The future of healthcare access in Salisbury hinges on a commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and services, ensuring that all residents can reach the care they need, when they need it.