20677, Port Tobacco, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20677, Port Tobacco, Maryland is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.65 percent of residents in 20677 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Charles Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.05 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 20677

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as formidable as breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not only the emotional and physical toll of the illness but also the practicalities of accessing care. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 20677 (Port Tobacco, Maryland), aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a composite assessment of transportation options and healthcare access specifically relevant to breast cancer treatment and support. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Port Tobacco, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and comprehensive care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers several factors: drive times to major healthcare facilities offering breast cancer services, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services. It also incorporates accessibility features, such as ADA compliance, vital for patients with mobility limitations. This score, while not a definitive measure, offers a valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating healthcare access in this specific geographic area.

The primary healthcare hubs for residents of 20677 are located in La Plata, Waldorf, and potentially even across the Potomac River in Virginia. Drive times, therefore, become a critical element of the "Breast Cancer Score." From Port Tobacco, a drive to the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center in La Plata, offering comprehensive cancer care, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This route predominantly utilizes MD-6 (Port Tobacco Road) and US-301 (Robert Crain Highway). Morning and evening rush hours can significantly extend this commute, potentially adding 15-20 minutes to the journey.

Accessing the MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, another option for some breast cancer services, requires a longer drive, approximately 40-50 minutes. This route involves traversing MD-6, MD-234, and MD-5. Traffic congestion is less frequent on this route, but the longer distance contributes to a lower score.

For those seeking specialized care or second opinions, facilities in Waldorf, such as the MedStar Health System, are accessible via US-301. The drive time is approximately 25-35 minutes. The primary route is US-301, a major thoroughfare that can experience heavy traffic during peak hours. This is a crucial consideration, as timely access to appointments and treatments is paramount.

Public transportation options in 20677 are limited, impacting the "Breast Cancer Score" negatively. The local transit system, the Charles County Transportation (CCT), offers bus routes, but their frequency and coverage are restricted. The primary routes serving the area are Route 10 (La Plata) and Route 30 (Waldorf). These routes do not offer direct service to major healthcare facilities, requiring transfers and extending travel times. ADA-accessible buses are available, but the overall system is not designed to specifically address the needs of patients requiring frequent medical appointments.

The lack of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. However, their availability and pricing can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas. This variability presents a challenge for patients who require reliable and affordable transportation for frequent appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation treatments.

Medical transportation services, such as the American Medical Response (AMR) and private ambulance companies, are available but are typically reserved for patients requiring emergency care or those with significant mobility limitations. These services are often costly and may not be suitable for routine appointments. The "Breast Cancer Score" reflects this limited availability and cost-prohibitive nature of medical transportation for many patients.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is also influenced by the proximity of support services. While 20677 is a relatively rural area, support groups, counseling services, and cancer resource centers are available in La Plata and Waldorf. However, accessing these services often requires transportation, further emphasizing the importance of reliable access to healthcare. The availability of these support networks contributes to a slightly higher score, as they provide crucial emotional and practical assistance.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 20677 is, therefore, moderate. While the proximity to La Plata provides relatively quick access to a major hospital, the limitations in public transportation and the potential for traffic congestion on major roadways present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the variability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for patients without access to a car or those facing financial constraints.

For someone considering moving to Port Tobacco and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, careful consideration of these transportation challenges is essential. Planning for potential delays, exploring all available options, and potentially relying on family or friends for transportation support are critical. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for a more in-depth assessment of healthcare access, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness.

Furthermore, the "Breast Cancer Score" underscores the importance of advocating for improved public transportation and increased access to affordable ride-sharing options. This includes advocating for more frequent bus routes with direct connections to healthcare facilities and exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide discounted fares for medical appointments. Improving transportation infrastructure is a vital step in ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents of 20677, particularly those battling breast cancer.

In conclusion, while 20677 offers access to healthcare facilities, the limitations in transportation options impact the "Breast Cancer Score." The drive times, the lack of robust public transit, and the variability of ride-sharing services present challenges for patients. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the need for careful planning, proactive resourcefulness, and advocacy for improved transportation infrastructure to ensure that residents of 20677 have equitable access to the care they need. The journey through breast cancer is arduous, and navigating the complexities of transportation should not add to the burden.