21849, Parsonsburg, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21849, Parsonsburg, Maryland is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.03 percent of residents in 21849 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Parsonsburg, MD (ZIP Code 21849)

This assessment delves into the multifaceted landscape of healthcare accessibility for residents of Parsonsburg, Maryland (ZIP code 21849). We will analyze the transportation options available, evaluating their impact on the overall health score. This score reflects the ease with which individuals can access necessary medical services, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions. Prospective residents considering moving to Parsonsburg will gain valuable insights into navigating the healthcare infrastructure of their potential new home.

Parsonsburg, a small, predominantly rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, shaping the transportation dynamics and influencing the overall health score. The availability of public transit is limited, making alternative transportation options crucial for those without personal vehicles or facing mobility limitations.

**Drive Times: The Highway to Healthcare**

The primary arteries for healthcare access in Parsonsburg are the major roadways, primarily Route 50 and Route 13. Route 50, a vital east-west thoroughfare, provides access to Salisbury, the county seat, and its concentration of medical facilities. Route 13, running north-south, offers connections to hospitals and clinics in both Salisbury and the surrounding areas.

Drive times to essential healthcare providers vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. During peak hours, traffic congestion on Route 50 can add considerable time to the commute. A typical drive to Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC) in Salisbury, the primary regional hospital, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Smaller clinics and specialist offices within Salisbury may be accessible within 10 to 20 minutes.

Accessing healthcare outside of Salisbury, such as hospitals in Delaware or Maryland, will require longer travel times. These longer commutes necessitate careful planning and consideration, particularly for those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical attention. The impact of travel time on the health score is significant, as longer commutes can deter individuals from seeking timely medical care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within Parsonsburg and the surrounding areas are limited. The Shore Transit system, the primary public transit provider for Wicomico County, offers routes that serve Salisbury and some surrounding areas. However, direct routes to and from Parsonsburg are scarce, and service frequency may be limited, especially during evenings and weekends.

The absence of robust public transit significantly impacts the health score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. For these residents, accessing healthcare can be a significant challenge, requiring reliance on friends, family, or alternative transportation options. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of existing routes should be investigated.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the availability of these services in Parsonsburg may be limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can increase the cost of transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, can be a valuable resource. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport brands operate in the area, offering various levels of service, from basic transportation to assistance with mobility devices. The cost and availability of these services should be carefully considered when evaluating the overall health score.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Parsonsburg (21849) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Salisbury and its healthcare facilities provides a degree of accessibility, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit options, and potential challenges with ride-share availability create limitations.

The health score is negatively impacted by the potential for longer drive times, especially during peak hours, and the limited accessibility for those without personal vehicles. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline for some residents, but the cost and availability of these services can influence the overall health score.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving the overall health score for Parsonsburg residents requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit options, including more frequent service and routes that directly serve Parsonsburg, would significantly improve healthcare access. Enhancing the availability and affordability of ride-share services could also benefit residents.

Promoting partnerships between healthcare providers and medical transportation services could streamline access to care. Educating residents about available transportation options and providing assistance with navigating the healthcare system are also essential steps.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Moving to Parsonsburg offers a unique blend of rural charm and proximity to healthcare resources. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for assessing the overall health score. While the reliance on personal vehicles is significant, the availability of alternative transportation options, such as ride-share and medical transport, provides essential support.

By carefully considering the drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare access. With ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare access, the overall health score for Parsonsburg residents can continue to improve, ensuring a healthier and more accessible future for all.