20626, Coltons Point, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20626, Coltons Point, Maryland is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.27 percent of residents in 20626 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 8.12 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Coltons Point (ZIP Code 20626)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires seamless **transportation**, a reliable network of support, and an understanding of the geographic landscape. This write-up assesses the **healthcare access** available to residents of Coltons Point, Maryland (ZIP Code 20626), focusing on the critical aspect of getting to and from vital medical appointments. It’s a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Coltons Point**, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

Coltons Point, a charming waterfront community nestled in St. Mary's County, offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and proximity to the Chesapeake Bay. However, its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** options for accessing specialized medical care. The "Breast Cancer Score" for this area is not a clinical assessment but a practical evaluation of the logistical hurdles involved in receiving breast cancer treatment. It analyzes the availability of various **transportation** modes, their accessibility, and the estimated travel times to key medical facilities.

The primary arteries connecting Coltons Point to the broader healthcare network are Maryland Route 5 (Point Lookout Road) and Maryland Route 234 (Budds Creek Road). These roadways, while scenic, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours and weekends. Driving times to the closest hospitals and cancer centers are therefore crucial.

MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, approximately a 20-minute drive via Route 5, is the closest facility offering comprehensive medical services. However, it's essential to recognize that specialized cancer care, including oncology and radiation therapy, may necessitate travel to facilities further afield.

The drive to Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, a major cancer treatment center, typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via Route 5 and Route 4. This journey can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during rush hour, potentially adding an extra 30-45 minutes to the commute.

For those seeking more specialized care, the drive to the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, renowned for its oncology services, is approximately 2 hours via Route 5 and the US-301. This extended travel time underscores the importance of planning and considering alternative **transportation** options.

Public **transportation** options in Coltons Point are limited. The St. Mary's County Transit System (SMCTS) offers bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and service to medical facilities may be limited. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments. Riders should contact SMCTS directly to confirm route accessibility and schedule adherence.

The lack of robust public **transportation** highlights the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. This is where ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers become critical components of the **healthcare access** equation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Coltons Point, but their reliability and availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Booking rides in advance, particularly for appointments, is strongly recommended. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like LogistiCare and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) often contract with insurance providers to offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, eligibility and coverage vary depending on the insurance plan.

For individuals **moving to Coltons Point** and facing a breast cancer diagnosis or treatment, proactive planning is essential. Contacting insurance providers to confirm coverage for medical **transportation** is a crucial first step. Establishing a support network of family, friends, or community organizations to assist with rides is also invaluable.

The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations in the area is another crucial factor in the **healthcare access** equation. These groups can provide emotional support, practical advice, and resources for navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment. The American Cancer Society and local hospitals often host support groups and educational programs.

The physical location of treatment centers and the availability of parking are also important considerations. Hospitals and cancer centers typically have designated parking areas, but parking fees can add to the overall cost of treatment. Valet parking services may be available at some facilities.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Coltons Point is a mixed bag. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited public **transportation** and the distance to specialized cancer centers pose significant challenges. Residents must rely on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical **transportation** to access crucial healthcare services.

The drive times to key medical facilities, even with the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation**, can be a significant source of stress and fatigue for patients undergoing treatment. The need for careful planning, reliable **transportation**, and a strong support system is paramount.

The ideal scenario involves a comprehensive network of support, including readily available **transportation**, access to specialized medical care, and a supportive community. For those **moving to Coltons Point** or already residing there, understanding the **transportation** landscape and proactively planning for **healthcare access** is vital for navigating the journey through breast cancer treatment. This includes researching insurance coverage for medical **transportation**, identifying reliable ride-sharing options, and establishing a support network to assist with appointments and other needs.

The assessment of **healthcare access** in Coltons Point underscores the importance of considering not only the quality of medical care but also the logistical challenges of getting to and from appointments. While the community offers a tranquil setting, the **transportation** limitations necessitate careful planning and proactive engagement to ensure seamless access to vital medical services.