20670, Patuxent River, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20670, Patuxent River, Maryland is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

92.13 percent of residents in 20670 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 10.41 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 20670**

ZIP Code 20670, encompassing the vibrant community surrounding the Patuxent River Naval Air Station in Maryland, presents a unique tapestry of transportation challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," delves into the realities of commuting to medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents, especially those considering moving to the area, to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The primary mode of transportation for many residents in 20670 is the personal vehicle. The area is characterized by a network of roadways that connect to major medical facilities. From the heart of 20670, a drive to MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, a primary healthcare provider for the region, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes. This commute primarily involves navigating MD-235, a major thoroughfare that experiences moderate traffic, especially during peak hours. The route is generally straightforward, but potential delays can arise due to accidents or construction.

For those seeking specialized breast cancer care, such as radiation oncology or surgical consultations, the journey often extends to facilities in more urban areas. Driving to Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, for example, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route involves traversing MD-235, connecting to MD-4, and then merging onto US-50 East. The US-50 corridor is notorious for its congestion, particularly during rush hour, which can significantly impact travel times and add stress to an already challenging situation.

Public transportation options in 20670 are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The St. Mary's County Transit System (SMCTS) offers bus services, but routes and schedules may not always align with medical appointment times. While some routes may provide connections to Leonardtown and other key locations, direct access to specialized cancer centers in Annapolis or Washington D.C. is not readily available. Furthermore, the frequency of service can be limited, requiring careful planning and potentially extended wait times. The SMCTS does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 20670, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. In a rural area, ride-sharing availability may be less consistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, especially for frequent appointments or longer distances, potentially creating a financial burden for patients.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for healthcare appointments offer another option. Companies like LogistiCare or ModivCare, which often contract with insurance providers, provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, easing the burden on patients who may have mobility limitations or are undergoing treatment that affects their ability to drive. However, availability and eligibility for these services depend on insurance coverage and the specific requirements of the transportation provider.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 20670, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to MedStar St. Mary's Hospital offers a relatively short commute for basic healthcare needs, access to specialized cancer care requires longer travel times, often involving congested roadways. The limitations of public transportation and the potential variability of ride-sharing services pose challenges for those who cannot drive or prefer alternative options. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline for some, but eligibility and coverage limitations remain a concern.

Moving to the Patuxent River area, particularly for individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk, requires careful consideration of these transportation and healthcare access factors. Prospective residents should research the specific healthcare providers they may need, assess the feasibility of commuting to appointments, and explore all available transportation options. They should also investigate their insurance coverage for medical transportation services and consider the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or personal vehicle expenses.

The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare landscape of 20670. Understanding the transportation realities, from the convenience of MD-235 to the complexities of the US-50 corridor, is paramount. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey and ensure they have access to the care they need, when they need it. The availability of healthcare access, and the ease of *transportation* to appointments, is a critical factor for anyone *moving to Patuxent River* and should be a significant consideration.