21851, Pocomoke City, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21851, Pocomoke City, Maryland is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.90 percent of residents in 21851 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 20.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Pocomoke City (ZIP Code 21851)

Embarking on a journey to assess healthcare access in Pocomoke City, Maryland (ZIP Code 21851), reveals a landscape shaped by its rural character. The overall health score, therefore, hinges significantly on the efficiency and availability of **transportation** options. This analysis delves into the intricacies of accessing medical facilities, considering factors like drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services. For individuals contemplating **moving to Pocomoke City**, understanding these dynamics is crucial for informed decision-making regarding their healthcare needs.

Pocomoke City, nestled in Worcester County, presents a unique challenge. Its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of how residents reach essential medical appointments. The primary determinant of **healthcare access** here is the ability to navigate the roads.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation. The town's central location provides reasonable access to various healthcare providers. For routine appointments, the drive to the nearest facilities, like the Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, Maryland, typically takes around 30-45 minutes. This journey predominantly involves traveling on US Route 113, a major north-south artery, and then transitioning to MD Route 346, also known as Old Ocean City Road.

For residents in the more remote areas of the ZIP code, especially those residing south of Pocomoke City, the drive times can extend considerably. Reaching larger hospitals in Salisbury, Maryland, such as TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, often requires a drive of over an hour, primarily via US Route 13. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact travel times and potentially hinder timely access to healthcare.

Public transit options are limited. Worcester County operates a public transportation system, but its routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to medical appointments. The system primarily serves essential needs, and its routes may not directly connect with all healthcare facilities. Individuals with mobility limitations should carefully investigate the ADA-compliant features of the available routes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their reliability and cost-effectiveness can vary. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas, may be limited. This factor introduces an element of uncertainty for those relying on these services for medical transportation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to healthcare needs, are also available. These services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transport providers, offer a more specialized solution. However, their cost can be significantly higher than other transportation methods.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Pocomoke City is, therefore, moderate. While the town offers access to healthcare providers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services create challenges. The distance to larger hospitals and the potential for extended travel times, particularly for those living in outlying areas, are significant considerations.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but their cost may be prohibitive for some residents. The feasibility of obtaining healthcare in Pocomoke City is, therefore, closely tied to the individual's ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape.

For those considering **moving to Pocomoke City**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** options is paramount. Researching the location of medical facilities, the availability of specialists, and the reliability of **transportation** alternatives is crucial.

The ability to drive, or the availability of a reliable driver, is a significant advantage. Individuals who rely on public transit or ride-sharing services should carefully plan their trips and consider the potential for delays. Exploring the cost and availability of medical transport services is also essential.

Furthermore, understanding the local healthcare infrastructure is critical. Identifying the nearest urgent care centers, primary care physicians, and specialists can help individuals streamline their healthcare journey. Building relationships with local healthcare providers and understanding their appointment scheduling processes can also enhance healthcare access.

The future of healthcare access in Pocomoke City could be positively impacted by improvements in public transit, expansion of ride-sharing services, and increased investment in medical transport options. The integration of telehealth services could also help bridge the geographical gap and improve **healthcare access** for residents.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Pocomoke City reflects the challenges and opportunities inherent in a rural setting. While the town offers access to healthcare providers, the **transportation** landscape requires careful navigation. Prospective residents should conduct a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and the available **transportation** options before **moving to Pocomoke City**. Prioritizing healthcare access and proactively planning for **transportation** needs are essential for maintaining good health in this charming, yet geographically diverse, community.