21904, Port Deposit, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21904, Port Deposit, Maryland is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.35 percent of residents in 21904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Harford Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.95 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21904 (Port Deposit, Maryland)

Considering a move to the charming river town of Port Deposit, Maryland (ZIP Code 21904)? Beyond the historic architecture and scenic beauty, understanding healthcare accessibility is crucial. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" by analyzing transportation options to medical facilities, essential for residents' well-being. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within and beyond the town's borders.

Port Deposit, nestled along the Susquehanna River, presents a unique transportation landscape. The town's relative remoteness, while contributing to its tranquility, also influences healthcare access. Residents must often travel outside the immediate vicinity for specialized care. This necessitates careful consideration of available transportation options and the time commitment involved in reaching essential medical services.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Connector**

The automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 21904. The primary route for most medical appointments is via **US Route 222**, which connects Port Deposit to surrounding towns and cities. Heading south, Route 222 leads to Havre de Grace, approximately a 20-minute drive, offering immediate healthcare access.

Traveling north on Route 222, you'll encounter the town of Rising Sun, about a 15-minute drive. Route 222 intersects with **Maryland Route 272**, providing access to facilities further inland. These routes are generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion can occur, especially during peak hours, potentially increasing travel times to critical medical appointments.

For those needing to travel further, **Interstate 95 (I-95)** offers a faster, albeit toll-road, option. Accessing I-95 requires navigating local roads, such as **Old Philadelphia Road**, adding to the overall travel time. While I-95 provides a direct route to major hospitals in Baltimore (approximately a 1-hour drive) and Philadelphia (around a 1.5-hour drive), the distance and potential for traffic delays necessitate careful planning.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in 21904 are limited. The Cecil County Transit system, though available, offers a limited route network, primarily focused on serving local needs. Residents seeking healthcare access via public transit will likely find themselves relying on the "Demand Response" service, which requires advance booking and may involve longer travel times due to multiple pick-ups and drop-offs.

The Cecil County Transit system, while attempting to provide transportation to medical facilities, might present challenges for those with mobility limitations. While the system strives for ADA compliance, the limited frequency of service and potential for extended travel times can pose difficulties. Careful planning is essential, and residents should confirm ADA-compliant features when booking.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplemental Support**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 21904 area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-sharing is best suited for short-distance trips or as a backup option.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transit. Several companies operate in the region, including MedStar Mobile Healthcare and American Medical Response (AMR). These services offer stretcher transport, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and trained medical personnel.

Medical transport services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, but they provide a vital service for individuals who cannot drive or use standard transportation methods. Residents needing medical transport should research available providers and understand their coverage policies.

**Healthcare Facilities: Proximity and Specialization**

The proximity of healthcare facilities significantly impacts the Overall Health Score. The closest healthcare options are located in Havre de Grace, offering primary care physicians, urgent care centers, and a small hospital. For specialized care, residents often need to travel to hospitals in Elkton (approximately a 30-minute drive), Baltimore, or Philadelphia.

The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, is crucial for comprehensive healthcare. While the immediate area offers primary care, residents in 21904 must often travel longer distances for specialized medical services. This underscores the importance of understanding transportation options and planning for potential travel times.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 21904 reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers a serene environment, healthcare access requires careful planning and consideration of transportation limitations. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, can create challenges for some residents.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides supplemental support, but their cost and availability must be considered. The distance to specialized medical facilities necessitates careful planning and awareness of potential travel times.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Prospective residents of 21904 should carefully evaluate their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should thoroughly investigate the Cecil County Transit system and medical transport options.

Individuals with chronic medical conditions or those requiring frequent specialist appointments should factor in travel times and potential traffic delays when considering their healthcare needs. Exploring telehealth options can also help mitigate the challenges of accessing healthcare in a more rural setting.

The Overall Health Score for 21904 is influenced by its location and the availability of transportation options. While the town offers a peaceful lifestyle, residents must be prepared to navigate transportation challenges to access the full spectrum of healthcare services. Careful planning, awareness of available resources, and consideration of individual needs are essential for ensuring optimal healthcare access.