20723, Laurel, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20723, Laurel, Maryland is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.19 percent of residents in 20723 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Howard County General Hospital with a distance of 5.59 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 20723

Choosing a home in Laurel, Maryland (ZIP Code 20723) is a decision woven with considerations, from schools and community to the crucial element of healthcare access. For women, particularly those concerned about breast cancer, understanding the ease of reaching diagnostic and treatment facilities is paramount. This "Breast Cancer Score" analyzes the transportation landscape, aiming to provide a clear picture of how readily accessible breast cancer care is for residents of 20723.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This information will help potential residents assess their ability to navigate the healthcare system, particularly when facing the emotional and physical demands of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. It is a vital element in the decision-making process, especially for those contemplating moving to Laurel.

**Drive Times: A Network of Roads to Care**

The lifeblood of transportation in 20723 is the road network. Access to breast cancer care often hinges on the efficiency of these arteries. The primary thoroughfare is the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), offering a direct route to several hospitals in both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. However, peak traffic hours can significantly extend travel times, especially during the morning and evening commutes.

Heading south, the Capital Beltway (I-495) provides access to hospitals in the Washington, D.C., suburbs. This route, while potentially offering a wider range of options, can be notoriously congested, adding to the stress of medical appointments. The Baltimore-Washington Parkway and the Capital Beltway are critical, but they can also be bottlenecks, impacting healthcare access.

For local travel, the primary roads are Contee Road, Laurel-Bowie Road, and Route 198. These routes connect residential areas to local medical facilities and offer alternative paths to larger hospitals. While generally less congested than the major highways, they can still experience delays during rush hour. Understanding these local routes is essential for navigating the healthcare landscape.

Drive times to key hospitals vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. The closest hospital, Laurel Regional Hospital, offers some breast cancer services. However, for specialized care, patients may need to travel to facilities like Howard County General Hospital (Columbia), MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center (Baltimore), or hospitals in the District. These trips can range from 20 minutes to over an hour, depending on the destination and traffic.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Valuable Option**

Public transportation in 20723, while not as extensive as in some urban areas, provides an alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates several bus routes that serve the area, connecting residents to various destinations, including medical facilities.

The most relevant bus routes for accessing breast cancer care include the 89, which travels along Laurel-Bowie Road and connects to the Greenbelt Metro Station. From there, riders can access the Washington, D.C., Metro system, providing access to hospitals in the District. The 89 also connects to the MARC train, offering access to Baltimore.

The 89 is a crucial component of the public transportation network. The buses are generally equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours, can be a limiting factor.

Other bus routes, such as the 501, also serve the area, providing connections to other parts of Prince George's County. However, these routes may require transfers and longer travel times to reach hospitals.

The Washington Metropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates the Green Line, which has a station in Greenbelt, a short distance from Laurel. This line offers access to hospitals in the District and the surrounding suburbs. However, the distance from the Greenbelt station to some hospitals may still require a bus or ride-sharing service.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Expanding Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. These services are readily available in 20723 and can provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments.

The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the distance, time of day, and demand. However, it often provides a more flexible and convenient option than public transit, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who need to travel at off-peak hours.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Transportation and other private companies, are also available in 20723. These services specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, often providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers.

Medical transport services are particularly valuable for patients who require assistance with mobility or who have other medical needs. The cost of these services can be higher than ride-sharing, but they offer a higher level of care and support.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 20723 is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the transportation landscape. It considers the availability of different transportation options, the drive times to key hospitals, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The score should be used in conjunction with other factors, such as the quality of care at local hospitals, the availability of specific breast cancer services, and the patient's individual needs and preferences. For potential residents considering moving to Laurel, this score is a crucial element in assessing healthcare access.

The score is not static; it can change based on infrastructure improvements, changes in public transit routes, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments in the transportation landscape.

The ability to navigate the healthcare system is crucial for anyone, but particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. By understanding the transportation options available in 20723, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they have access to the care they need. This analysis aims to empower individuals with the knowledge necessary to make informed choices about their health and well-being.