20624, Clements, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20624, Clements, Maryland is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

31.80 percent of residents in 20624 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 5.69 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clements, Maryland (ZIP Code 20624)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event. Beyond the medical complexities, patients face a daunting landscape of appointments, treatments, and support services. For residents of Clements, Maryland (ZIP Code 20624), accessing this vital healthcare often involves navigating the complexities of transportation. This write-up aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" – a holistic assessment of healthcare access, considering transportation options, and the practical realities faced by those moving to Clements or already residing there.

Clements, a rural community nestled in St. Mary’s County, presents unique challenges. While the peace and quiet are appealing, the relative isolation impacts healthcare access. A comprehensive Breast Cancer Score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. We'll examine each aspect, providing a nuanced understanding of the transportation landscape for breast cancer patients.

**Drive Time: The Primary Route**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Clements is the automobile. The primary route to specialized breast cancer care involves driving. The most direct path to the closest comprehensive cancer centers typically begins on Maryland Route 234 (Budds Creek Road). This road, a vital artery for the community, connects Clements to the larger towns and cities offering advanced medical services.

From Clements, heading west on Route 234, you'll likely merge onto Maryland Route 5 (Point Lookout Road). This major thoroughfare leads towards Lexington Park and California, Maryland, where the closest hospitals with oncology departments are located. The drive, depending on traffic, can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes.

For more specialized care, such as radiation oncology or clinical trials, patients might need to travel further. This could involve navigating onto Route 4 (Patuxent River Naval Air Station Road), which eventually connects to the Washington, D.C. area. This journey can easily exceed an hour, particularly during rush hour.

The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges these drive times, factoring in the physical toll on patients undergoing treatment. Consider the impact of fatigue, nausea, and other side effects when evaluating the feasibility of long drives.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Clements are limited. The St. Mary’s County Transit System (SMCTS) offers some bus routes, but their coverage is sparse, especially in rural areas like Clements. These routes are designed for general commuting and may not directly serve medical facilities.

The primary SMCTS route that might be relevant is Route 1, which runs along Route 5. However, even this route requires a transfer or a significant walk to reach most hospitals or cancer centers. The frequency of these buses is also a significant factor. Service is often limited, particularly on weekends and evenings.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is crucial. While SMCTS strives to provide accessible services, patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment might find it challenging to navigate the bus system. The Breast Cancer Score must account for the practicality of public transit for patients with varying physical limitations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. Waiting times can be longer, and surge pricing might be a factor during peak hours or medical emergencies.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing transportation to medical appointments, provide a more reliable option. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services often accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

The Breast Cancer Score considers the cost and availability of these services. While medical transport offers a crucial lifeline, the expense can be a significant burden for patients. Insurance coverage for these services varies, and understanding the financial implications is essential.

**Factors Influencing the Breast Cancer Score**

Several factors influence the overall Breast Cancer Score for Clements residents. The patient's physical condition, the type of treatment needed, and the availability of family or friends to assist with transportation all play a role.

The proximity of the patient's home to the nearest medical facilities is another key consideration. The availability of parking at these facilities, the ease of navigating the facilities themselves, and the presence of support services like patient navigators are also critical.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the patient's financial resources. The cost of transportation, whether it's gas, ride-share fees, or medical transport, can be a significant barrier to accessing care.

**Moving to Clements: A Healthcare Perspective**

For those considering moving to Clements, the Breast Cancer Score is a vital factor. While the community offers a peaceful environment, potential residents must carefully assess the healthcare access situation.

Prospective residents should research the availability of medical services, the drive times to cancer centers, and the feasibility of using public transit or ride-sharing services. They should also investigate the availability of medical transport services and the potential costs involved.

Individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities and access to reliable transportation. This is a critical element in their decision-making process.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improved Access**

The Breast Cancer Score for Clements highlights the challenges faced by residents needing breast cancer care. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, healthcare access is limited by transportation constraints.

Improving healthcare access in Clements requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for increased public transit options, supporting the expansion of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the affordability of medical transport.

Furthermore, community initiatives that provide transportation assistance, such as volunteer driver programs or subsidized ride-share programs, can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Clements, regardless of their circumstances, have equitable access to the life-saving care they need.