21930, Georgetown, Maryland Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 21930, Georgetown, Maryland is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 21930 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Ctr At Chestertown with a distance of 13.94 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 21930

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis delves into the intricacies of healthcare access within ZIP Code 21930, focusing on the critical element of transportation. Understanding the available options, their efficiency, and their accessibility is paramount in determining an overall health score for residents. This write-up will assess the existing infrastructure, considering drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking medical care in this area.

ZIP Code 21930, encompassing the charming town of North East, Maryland, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its location in Cecil County, nestled between the Chesapeake Bay and the Susquehanna River, offers scenic beauty but also introduces transportation considerations. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Interstate 95 (I-95), U.S. Route 40 (Pulaski Highway), and Maryland Route 272 (North East Road). These highways facilitate movement both north and south, providing access to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns and cities, including Wilmington, Delaware, and Elkton, Maryland.

For residents relying on personal vehicles, drive times to healthcare providers are a crucial factor. The proximity of healthcare facilities within the town of North East itself is a significant advantage. However, specialized care, such as advanced cardiology or oncology services, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. A drive to Union Hospital in Elkton, for example, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on U.S. Route 40. Accessing ChristianaCare in Wilmington, Delaware, a major regional healthcare provider, requires a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour via I-95. The time spent in transit directly impacts the overall health score, as longer travel times can deter individuals from seeking timely medical attention.

Public transportation options within 21930 are more limited. Cecil Transit, the county's public transportation system, offers bus routes that connect North East to other towns and cities within Cecil County. The availability of these routes, however, may be restricted in terms of frequency and coverage. The routes and schedules should be carefully evaluated to determine whether they provide adequate healthcare access. For instance, a resident needing to travel to a specialist in Elkton would need to consult the Cecil Transit schedule to determine the feasibility of using public transit. The presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on these buses, such as ramps and priority seating, is essential for ensuring accessibility for all residents.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are also available in the area, offering an alternative transportation option. The cost of these services and their availability, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled at inconvenient times, need to be considered. The reliability of ride-sharing services can significantly influence the overall health score, as they provide a more flexible option than fixed-route public transportation. The ability to readily secure a ride to a doctor's appointment is vital for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several options exist. Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require medical assistance during transit. The availability and responsiveness of these services directly impact the health score, as they ensure that individuals with specific medical needs can access the care they require.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 21930 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The convenience of driving to local healthcare providers is a positive aspect, but the need to travel to larger medical centers in surrounding cities introduces challenges. The limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare services can be a barrier for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing services provides a more flexible alternative, but the cost and reliability of these services need to be considered. The presence of medical transport services is a vital asset for individuals with specific medical needs.

For those moving to Georgetown, the location of 21930, the ability to readily access healthcare is a significant consideration. The proximity to major highways, such as I-95, offers convenient access to healthcare facilities in Wilmington, Delaware, and other regional centers. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options further enhances healthcare access. However, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles for some residents need to be carefully evaluated.

The overall health score for 21930 is contingent on the ability of residents to effectively navigate the transportation landscape to access healthcare services. While the area offers a mix of options, the availability and affordability of transportation, particularly for those with limited mobility or without access to personal vehicles, can significantly impact the overall health score. Further analysis of the Cecil Transit routes, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the responsiveness of medical transport providers is recommended to provide a more nuanced assessment of healthcare access.