20748, Temple Hills, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20748, Temple Hills, Maryland is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.04 percent of residents in 20748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Southern Maryland Hospital Center with a distance of 5.49 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Temple Hills, MD (ZIP Code 20748)**

The diagnosis of breast cancer brings a cascade of emotions, from fear and uncertainty to a fierce determination to fight. In the midst of this upheaval, practical considerations like accessing timely and quality healthcare become paramount. For residents of Temple Hills, Maryland (ZIP code 20748), the ability to navigate the transportation landscape to reach essential medical services significantly impacts their journey. This analysis delves into the accessibility of breast cancer care within and around this community, focusing on transportation options and their impact on the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for individuals facing this challenge.

Temple Hills, a vibrant suburb of Washington, D.C., presents a unique transportation profile. Proximity to the nation's capital offers both advantages and complexities. While residents benefit from access to a wider range of healthcare facilities, the region's notorious traffic congestion can significantly impede timely access to appointments, treatments, and support services. The "Breast Cancer Score" for 20748, therefore, must consider the nuances of transportation options, factoring in drive times, public transit reliability, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Driving the Road to Recovery:**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. In Temple Hills, the major arteries impacting healthcare access are the Capital Beltway (I-495/I-95), the Suitland Parkway, and Branch Avenue (MD-5). Driving to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers requires navigating these roads, often during peak traffic hours.

The drive to MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton, MD, a facility offering comprehensive cancer care, typically takes 15-25 minutes via Branch Avenue and the Beltway, depending on traffic. The University of Maryland Capital Region Health in Largo, MD, is a similar distance, often requiring a drive along the Beltway and Central Avenue. The commute to these facilities can be significantly extended during rush hour, potentially adding 30 minutes or more to the journey. This delay can cause stress and anxiety for patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments.

The journey to facilities located in Washington, D.C., such as MedStar Washington Hospital Center or the George Washington University Hospital, presents a more complex challenge. The drive, often involving the Beltway and the Suitland Parkway, can easily exceed 45 minutes, even without significant traffic. Parking costs at these facilities also add to the financial burden of treatment.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), or Metro, provides bus service throughout the area. Several Metrobus routes serve Temple Hills, including the C21, C22, C29, and P12, offering connections to the Green Line Metro rail. While these routes provide an alternative to driving, they often involve multiple transfers and can be subject to delays, especially during inclement weather.

The Green Line Metro offers a more direct route to some healthcare facilities in the District. The nearest Metro stations to Temple Hills are Southern Avenue and Naylor Road. From these stations, patients can access hospitals in the city. However, the walk from the station to the hospital, especially for patients with mobility issues, can pose a challenge.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor in the public transit equation. WMATA strives to provide accessible services, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating for individuals with disabilities on buses and trains. However, the reliability of these features and the availability of accessible stations can vary.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient, albeit often expensive, alternative to driving or public transit. These services are readily available in Temple Hills and can provide door-to-door transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of frequent rides can quickly accumulate, placing a financial strain on patients already burdened by medical expenses.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and GoGoGrandparent, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services offer trained drivers, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and often, assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle. While these services can be invaluable for patients with mobility issues, they typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing services.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" in Context:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 20748 must consider the multifaceted transportation landscape. The score should factor in the following:

* **Drive Times:** Average drive times to major cancer centers, considering peak traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The frequency, reliability, and accessibility of Metrobus and Metro rail services.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The cost and availability of these services.
* **Accessibility:** The ease of access to healthcare facilities, considering parking, building layouts, and support services.

**Moving to Temple Hills: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For individuals considering a move to Temple Hills, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. The proximity to major medical centers is a significant advantage, but the challenges of navigating the transportation system must be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, considering their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Temple Hills offers a diverse community with a strong sense of neighborliness. However, the transportation challenges can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. By carefully evaluating the transportation options, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure they receive the support they need during this challenging time. The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they deserve.