20619, California, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20619, California, Maryland is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.72 percent of residents in 20619 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 6.22 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 20619**

This analysis examines healthcare access for breast cancer patients residing in ZIP Code 20619, focusing on transportation options to and from medical facilities. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Breast Cancer Score,” considering drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents, particularly those undergoing treatment, as navigating transportation can significantly impact their well-being and the efficacy of their care. The analysis considers the practical challenges of accessing vital medical appointments, emphasizing the importance of accessible and reliable transportation.

The assessment begins with drive times. The primary hospitals serving the 20619 area are located in California, necessitating a commute. From the heart of 20619, a drive to the nearest major hospital, the Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center, involves navigating the Capital Beltway, also known as I-495. The distance is approximately 30 miles, and during peak traffic, the journey can take up to an hour and a half, especially during morning and evening commutes. The route typically utilizes the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) and the I-95 North, presenting potential bottlenecks. This is the critical first hurdle in healthcare access.

Further afield, other hospitals offer specialized breast cancer care. MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, located in Washington, D.C., is roughly 40 miles away. The journey involves the Capital Beltway (I-495) and the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Traffic congestion can be substantial, adding considerable time to the commute. Another option is Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, approximately 50 miles from 20619. This route involves the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) and I-95 North, potentially encountering heavy traffic around the Baltimore area. These longer commutes necessitate careful planning and consideration of various transportation alternatives.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its effectiveness depends on the patient's mobility and the accessibility features of the routes. The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates bus routes and the Metro rail system. From 20619, accessing the Metro requires a connection to a bus route, such as the C2, which provides service to the Greenbelt Metro Station. From there, patients can take the Green Line towards downtown Washington, D.C., where they can transfer to other lines to reach hospitals like MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. However, this journey can be time-consuming, potentially taking over two hours, especially with transfers.

The Metro system offers ADA-accessible stations and elevators, but not all stations are fully equipped. Patients with mobility issues must verify the accessibility of their chosen stations before travel. The WMATA website provides detailed information on accessibility features, including elevator availability and station-specific layouts. The bus system also provides ADA-accessible buses, but the frequency of service and potential for delays can be significant. Public transit, while a viable option, requires careful planning and may not be ideal for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments, which can cause fatigue and other side effects.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide another transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing door-to-door service, which can be a significant advantage for patients. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be substantial, especially for longer distances. During peak hours, surge pricing can further increase costs. Patients should factor in these costs when budgeting for their healthcare transportation needs. The availability of ride-sharing services can also vary, particularly in areas with limited demand.

Medical transportation services specialize in providing transportation for patients. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist patients with mobility issues. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer medical transportation services in the area. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance and level of care required. Patients should research these services and inquire about insurance coverage.

The “Breast Cancer Score” for 20619 will consider these factors. The score is weighted to reflect the importance of each factor. Drive times are weighted heavily, as they directly impact the patient's time commitment and energy expenditure. Public transit accessibility and convenience are also considered, along with the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The score will also take into account the availability of specialized breast cancer care at each facility.

The ultimate goal is to provide residents with a clear understanding of their healthcare access options. The score will highlight the challenges and opportunities for patients in 20619, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care. The score will be dynamic, reflecting changes in transportation infrastructure, service availability, and healthcare facility offerings. It will be regularly updated to ensure its accuracy and relevance.

For individuals considering moving to California, the availability of healthcare access is a critical factor. The “Breast Cancer Score” can serve as a valuable tool for assessing the healthcare landscape in a specific area. It provides insights into the practical challenges of accessing care, helping potential residents make informed decisions. The score considers the impact of transportation on healthcare access, a crucial consideration for those undergoing treatment.

The final score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access to care. The score will be accompanied by a detailed report summarizing the findings, including specific recommendations for improving healthcare access in 20619. This may include advocating for improved public transit service, promoting the use of ride-sharing services, and supporting the expansion of medical transportation options. The “Breast Cancer Score” aims to be a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare outcomes for residents of 20619.