20774, Upper Marlboro, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20774, Upper Marlboro, Maryland is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.27 percent of residents in 20774 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Capital Region Medical Center with a distance of 2.52 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Upper Marlboro (ZIP Code 20774)

Considering a move to Upper Marlboro, Maryland (ZIP code 20774)? Beyond the charm of suburban living and the allure of Prince George's County, a critical factor in your decision should be healthcare access, particularly for women. This assessment, a "Breast Cancer Score," delves into the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment within and around this specific ZIP code. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, providing a comprehensive picture for informed decision-making.

The score isn't a numerical grade, but a narrative evaluation, painting a realistic picture of the challenges and advantages of navigating the healthcare system from this location. It's designed to empower you with the knowledge to plan your healthcare needs proactively, especially if you have a family history or personal concerns about breast cancer.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

Upper Marlboro is a suburban hub, and your ability to access healthcare often hinges on your vehicle. The primary thoroughfare is US Route 301 (Robert Crain Highway), a major north-south artery that can become congested during peak hours. Traveling north on 301 will take you toward Bowie, where you'll find some medical facilities. Southward, 301 leads towards Waldorf, another area with healthcare options.

Interstate 495 (the Capital Beltway) is another crucial roadway. Accessing it from Upper Marlboro, however, can involve navigating local roads like MD Route 4 (Pennsylvania Avenue), which is often heavily trafficked. The Beltway offers access to hospitals and specialized care centers in Washington, D.C., and the surrounding Maryland suburbs. Expect travel times to vary significantly depending on the time of day. Rush hour can easily double or triple your commute.

MD Route 4, also known as Pennsylvania Avenue, provides direct access to several medical facilities. This road, however, can be a bottleneck, especially during peak commuting times. The drive to some hospitals in the District of Columbia can take upwards of an hour during rush hour.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Buses**

Public transportation is a viable alternative to driving, but its effectiveness depends on your destination and the availability of services. The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), commonly known as Metro, provides rail and bus services. Unfortunately, Upper Marlboro doesn't have direct access to a Metro rail station.

The closest Metro station is the Largo Town Center station, served by the Blue Line. Reaching this station from Upper Marlboro requires a bus connection, typically through the Metrobus system. Metrobus routes like the C12, C21, and C22 serve the Upper Marlboro area, connecting residents to the Largo Town Center station. The C12 operates along Pennsylvania Avenue, providing a direct link to the station.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. All Metrobus vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, and the Metro rail stations are ADA-compliant, offering elevators and accessible platforms. However, bus travel times can be unpredictable due to traffic, and transfers can add significant time to your journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Upper Marlboro, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, ride-sharing fares can be expensive, particularly during peak hours or for longer distances.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services cater to individuals who may require assistance getting in and out of vehicles or who have mobility limitations. Several medical transportation providers operate in the Upper Marlboro area, including, but not limited to, American Medical Response (AMR), and other private companies.

**Healthcare Access: Where to Seek Care**

The availability of breast cancer screening and treatment options is a critical factor in evaluating healthcare access. Within a reasonable driving distance of Upper Marlboro, you'll find several hospitals and medical centers offering comprehensive breast cancer services.

The University of Maryland Capital Region Health Medical Center in Largo, is a nearby option. It offers a range of services, including mammograms, diagnostic imaging, and treatment. The drive from Upper Marlboro is relatively short, but traffic on Pennsylvania Avenue can impact travel times.

In Washington, D.C., MedStar Washington Hospital Center and Sibley Memorial Hospital offer comprehensive breast cancer programs. Accessing these facilities requires navigating the Beltway and local roads, which can be time-consuming, especially during rush hour.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Upper Marlboro, ZIP code 20774, is a nuanced assessment. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, transportation challenges exist. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion on major roadways like US 301 and MD Route 4, can impact travel times. Public transportation, while available, requires bus connections to reach the Metro rail and can be time-consuming. Ride-sharing services provide a convenient alternative, but costs can be a factor.

The availability of medical transportation services offers a valuable option for individuals with mobility limitations. The proximity of healthcare facilities, including those in Bowie, Largo, and Washington, D.C., provides a range of choices for screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Moving to Upper Marlboro offers many advantages, but it's crucial to consider the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. Evaluate your individual needs, preferences, and potential healthcare requirements. Factor in the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing costs, and the availability of medical transportation services.

By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether Upper Marlboro is the right place for you and your healthcare needs. This "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating this critical aspect of your decision, ensuring you're well-prepared to navigate the healthcare system and prioritize your well-being.