20637, Hughesville, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20637, Hughesville, Maryland is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.87 percent of residents in 20637 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calverthealth Medical Center with a distance of 9.18 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 20637**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 20637 (Hughesville, Maryland), examines the landscape of transportation options available to residents, assessing their impact on healthcare access for those facing this challenging disease. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture of the accessibility challenges and opportunities for those living in this community. Considering the implications of transportation on healthcare access is crucial for individuals considering moving to Hughesville, Maryland.

The geographical reality of ZIP Code 20637 significantly influences healthcare access. Hughesville is a primarily rural area, characterized by sprawling residential developments interspersed with farmland. This layout presents unique transportation challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles or facing mobility limitations. The availability and efficiency of transportation options directly affect the ability to attend crucial appointments, undergo treatments, and receive timely care.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

For many residents, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. Assessing drive times to major healthcare facilities is paramount. The dominant roadways shaping commutes are crucial. Route 5 (Leonardtown Road) serves as a major artery, connecting Hughesville to the north and south. Route 231 (Budds Creek Road) offers an east-west passage. The drive to MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, a regional healthcare hub, typically takes 30-45 minutes via Route 5, depending on traffic. The drive to the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center in La Plata, another significant option, averages 20-30 minutes, also primarily via Route 5.

The drive to specialized cancer centers, such as the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center in Baltimore or the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center in Bethesda, can be significantly longer. These trips involve navigating multiple highways, including Route 5, Route 301, and the Capital Beltway (I-495). Travel times to these centers can range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. These longer commutes highlight the importance of considering transportation reliability and potential delays when planning treatment schedules. This is crucial when considering moving to Hughesville.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 20637 are limited. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly serve Hughesville with fixed-route bus services. The local Charles County Transportation system (CCT) offers some limited routes, but these are primarily focused on local travel and may not provide direct access to major healthcare facilities. CCT services are often demand-response, requiring advance booking, which can be a significant barrier for those needing immediate or frequent medical appointments.

The availability of ADA-accessible public transit is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. While CCT strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency and route coverage can pose challenges. The lack of extensive public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles, particularly for those unable to drive or without access to a car. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary depending on demand and time of day. In a rural area like Hughesville, ride-sharing availability may be less consistent than in more urban centers. The cost of these rides can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including companies like LogistiCare and ModivCare. These services often require prior authorization and can be arranged through insurance plans or directly by patients. While medical transport can be a valuable resource, the availability and coverage of these services can vary depending on insurance plans and eligibility criteria.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access**

The combination of limited public transit, potentially inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the distance to specialized cancer centers creates significant challenges for residents of ZIP Code 20637. The longer commute times, particularly for those without personal vehicles or facing mobility limitations, can increase the risk of delayed diagnosis, treatment adherence issues, and overall poorer health outcomes.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for this ZIP Code, therefore, reflects the need for a comprehensive approach to improving healthcare access. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and ensuring adequate access to medical transportation resources. Addressing these transportation barriers is crucial for ensuring that all residents of Hughesville have equal access to the life-saving care they need. It is vital to assess the accessibility of healthcare when considering moving to Hughesville.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Several strategies can improve healthcare access for residents of ZIP Code 20637. Collaboration between local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations is essential. Expanding the CCT service, including more frequent routes and enhanced ADA accessibility, would significantly benefit residents. Negotiating partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Increasing awareness of medical transportation services and assisting residents with navigating insurance coverage and eligibility requirements are also critical. Promoting telehealth services, where appropriate, can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.

Finally, a focus on community education is essential. Informing residents about available transportation options, healthcare resources, and financial assistance programs can empower them to proactively manage their healthcare needs. This education should be tailored to the specific needs of the community, including those facing transportation barriers and those considering moving to Hughesville.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a numerical assessment; it is a call to action. It highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access and underscores the need for collaborative efforts to ensure that all residents of ZIP Code 20637 have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care.