21919, Earleville, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21919, Earleville, Maryland is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.78 percent of residents in 21919 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Harford Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21919 (Earleville, MD)

Assessing the overall health of a community necessitates a multifaceted approach, encompassing not just the availability of medical services but also the ease with which residents can access them. This analysis focuses on the critical element of healthcare access within ZIP code 21919, Earleville, Maryland, evaluating the existing transportation infrastructure and its impact on residents' ability to reach necessary medical appointments. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" reflecting the accessibility of healthcare within this specific geographic area. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Earleville, as it directly impacts their well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access is, of course, the presence of medical facilities. ZIP code 21919 itself is primarily a residential area, with limited immediate healthcare options. Residents rely on facilities located in surrounding communities, primarily in Elkton, Middletown, and Wilmington, Delaware. This necessitates transportation, making the commute to healthcare a crucial factor in determining the overall health score.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for healthcare access are US Route 213, Maryland Route 279, and Maryland Route 218. These roads connect Earleville to the larger network of highways. Traveling south on US Route 213 provides access to Elkton, where residents can find Union Hospital of Cecil County. The drive time to this facility typically ranges from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Maryland Route 279 offers another route to Elkton, and to I-95, potentially expanding access to healthcare facilities in Wilmington, Delaware.

Heading north on US Route 213, the journey towards Middletown, Delaware, takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. This route offers access to ChristianaCare Middletown Hospital. The drive time, while manageable, is subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours. The roads are generally well-maintained, but potential delays due to accidents or construction can impact the reliability of these commutes.

Accessing healthcare facilities in Wilmington, Delaware, such as Christiana Hospital, involves a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This typically requires traveling south on US Route 213 and then connecting to I-95. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The availability of parking at these facilities also plays a role in the overall experience.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transportation options within ZIP code 21919 are limited. Cecil Transit provides bus service within Cecil County, but routes and schedules may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. The availability of public transit is a crucial factor for those without personal vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

Currently, there are no specific Cecil Transit routes that directly connect Earleville to healthcare facilities. Residents would likely need to travel to Elkton or another hub to access a connecting route. This often involves multiple transfers and extended travel times, making public transit a less desirable option for many. The lack of direct routes and the potential for long travel times significantly impacts the overall health score for residents relying on public transportation.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on public transit is essential. Ensuring that buses are accessible for individuals with mobility impairments is critical for inclusivity and equitable healthcare access. Information regarding the ADA compliance of Cecil Transit buses should be readily available and easily accessible to residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Earleville area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. Residents may experience longer wait times, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. However, these services often come at a higher cost and may require prior authorization. The availability of NEMT services, specifically for those with limited mobility or other medical conditions, is crucial for ensuring healthcare access. Companies such as Logisticare and ModivCare often provide such services.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP code 21919 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transportation options and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services present significant barriers for some.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Expanding Cecil Transit routes to directly connect Earleville with healthcare facilities in Elkton and Middletown is essential. This should include consideration of ADA-compliant features and convenient scheduling.
* **Promote Ride-Share Programs:** Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized or discounted fares for medical appointments could improve accessibility.
* **Increase Awareness of Medical Transport:** Providing residents with clear and accessible information about NEMT services and eligibility requirements is crucial.
* **Community Collaboration:** Fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation services, and community organizations to address transportation barriers and promote healthcare access.
* **Infrastructure Improvements:** Investing in road maintenance and traffic management to ensure reliable drive times to healthcare facilities.

By addressing these recommendations, the community can significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" for residents of Earleville, ensuring that everyone has equitable access to the healthcare they need. This is particularly important for those considering moving to Earleville, as it directly impacts their quality of life and well-being. The ease of transportation to healthcare is a critical component of a healthy and thriving community.