20667, Park Hall, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20667, Park Hall, Maryland is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 20667 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 12.15 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 20667

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a multifaceted one. It involves not only the medical expertise and emotional support of a healthcare team, but also the practicalities of getting there. In the ZIP code 20667, encompassing the charming community of Park Hall, Maryland, this journey is shaped by the unique geography and transportation landscape. This write-up assesses the accessibility of breast cancer care in 20667, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. We aim to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare resources.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in 20667 is its relative rurality. While offering a peaceful, community-focused environment, this also means residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The major arteries serving the area are Maryland Route 5 (Point Lookout Road) and Maryland Route 235 (Three Notch Road). These roads are essential for commuting to healthcare facilities, and drive times are heavily dependent on traffic conditions.

A journey to the closest comprehensive cancer center, such as MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, typically involves a drive of approximately 15 to 20 minutes via Route 5. This drive, while manageable, can be impacted by rush hour traffic, particularly during weekday commutes. Further, the availability of parking at these facilities should be factored into the overall assessment.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, residents may need to travel to facilities in larger cities like Washington, D.C., or Baltimore. This significantly increases travel time. A trip to Baltimore, for instance, would entail a drive of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, primarily via Route 5 to Route 4, then onto the Beltway (I-495) and finally, I-95. This extended commute can be physically and emotionally taxing for patients undergoing treatment.

Public transportation options in 20667 are limited. The St. Mary's County Transit System (SMCTS) provides bus services within the county. However, these routes are primarily designed for local travel and may not directly connect to major healthcare facilities. The routes are infrequent and may not operate during evenings or weekends, posing a significant challenge for patients requiring appointments outside of regular business hours. ADA accessibility is a critical factor, and the SMCTS strives to provide accessible services, but availability may vary depending on the specific route and time.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 20667, offering a potentially convenient alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability can fluctuate depending on demand and the time of day. Patients may experience longer wait times or higher fares, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited ride-sharing activity. The reliability of these services is crucial for patients who may be experiencing side effects from treatment and need prompt and dependable transportation.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to cater to patients' needs. These services offer specialized transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including both local and national providers. These services can be invaluable for patients who are unable to drive or require assistance during their travels. However, the cost of medical transport can be a barrier to access for some patients, and insurance coverage may vary.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 20667 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to MedStar St. Mary's Hospital offers reasonable access to basic care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The extended travel times to more specialized facilities in larger cities, compounded by potential traffic delays, can significantly impact patients' well-being. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer viable alternatives, but their availability and cost must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Park Hall, or for existing residents, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. When evaluating healthcare access, factors such as the availability of a personal vehicle, the ability to drive long distances, and the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services must be considered.

The community of Park Hall offers a welcoming environment, but the realities of healthcare access must be acknowledged. Efforts to improve public transportation, increase ride-sharing availability, and provide financial assistance for medical transport could significantly enhance the "Breast Cancer Score" for 20667 residents.

The overall score acknowledges the existing healthcare options, but also underscores the need for improved transportation infrastructure and support services to ensure equitable access to care for all residents. Further research into the specific needs of breast cancer patients in the area, including their transportation challenges and financial constraints, is essential to develop targeted solutions. This includes collaborating with local healthcare providers, community organizations, and transportation agencies to create a more supportive and accessible healthcare environment.