20784, Hyattsville, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20784, Hyattsville, Maryland is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.51 percent of residents in 20784 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Ctr, Inc with a distance of 2.38 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 20784 (Hyattsville, Maryland)**

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, demanding immediate and comprehensive care. For residents of Hyattsville, Maryland (ZIP code 20784), access to timely and effective treatment is a crucial factor in their journey. This report assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area, focusing on the critical element of *transportation* to healthcare facilities. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, painting a detailed picture of *healthcare access* for those *moving to Hyattsville* or already residing there.

Hyattsville, a vibrant suburb in Prince George's County, offers a diverse community and a range of amenities. However, the proximity and ease of reaching specialized medical care, particularly for breast cancer treatment, is a key consideration. The ability to quickly and reliably access oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapy centers, and support services can significantly impact a patient's prognosis and quality of life. This analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the *transportation* landscape for those seeking breast cancer care within and around the 20784 ZIP code.

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

The primary means of *transportation* for many residents is their personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to key medical facilities is essential. From the heart of Hyattsville, the journey to major hospitals and cancer centers relies heavily on several roadways.

The Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) is a major artery, offering relatively direct access to hospitals in both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. However, this route is notorious for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Expect significant delays during morning and evening commutes, potentially adding considerable time to a medical appointment.

Another crucial route is the Capital Beltway (I-495/I-95). This circumferential highway provides access to numerous hospitals and medical centers in the surrounding areas. However, the Beltway is also prone to heavy traffic, particularly near major interchanges. Navigating the Beltway during rush hour can be a stressful experience, potentially hindering timely *healthcare access*.

For local travel, residents rely on smaller roads like East-West Highway (MD-410) and University Boulevard (MD-193). These routes offer access to local medical offices and clinics. While generally less congested than the major highways, traffic can still be a factor, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Drive times to key facilities will vary depending on traffic conditions. For example, a trip to the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore via the Baltimore-Washington Parkway could take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic. Similarly, a trip to MedStar Washington Hospital Center in D.C. via the Beltway could range from 20 minutes to an hour. These variable drive times underscore the importance of planning and flexibility when scheduling medical appointments.

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

For those who prefer or require public *transportation*, the Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), or Metro, provides a network of rail and bus services. The Green Line of the Metro serves the Hyattsville area, offering a potentially convenient option for accessing medical facilities.

The Green Line provides access to the Metro's Gallery Place-Chinatown station, which connects to the Red Line. From the Red Line, passengers can reach the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland, a major research and treatment center. The journey involves a transfer, but the Metro offers a relatively reliable and efficient means of *transportation*, particularly during non-peak hours.

Bus routes operated by WMATA and the Prince George's County TheBus provide additional *transportation* options. Several bus routes serve Hyattsville, connecting residents to Metro stations and local medical facilities. However, bus schedules and frequency can vary, and travel times may be longer than driving or taking the Metro.

It is crucial to consider the accessibility features of public transit. WMATA strives to provide accessible services, including elevators and ramps for passengers with disabilities. However, the availability and functionality of these features should be verified before travel. For individuals with mobility limitations, navigating the Metro and bus systems may require careful planning and consideration.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another *transportation* option, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand rides to and from medical appointments, offering convenience and flexibility. However, ride-sharing fares can vary depending on demand and time of day, and availability may be limited during peak hours or in certain areas.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical *transportation* (NEMT), provide specialized *transportation* for patients with specific needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring safe and comfortable travel. While these services can be a valuable resource, they may require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Medical Facilities in Proximity**

Hyattsville benefits from its proximity to several medical facilities. While not all facilities specialize in breast cancer care, their proximity is a factor in the overall *healthcare access* score.

MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, while not a dedicated cancer center, is a general hospital that provides various medical services. It is located in Clinton, Maryland, a reasonable drive from Hyattsville.

MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C., offers comprehensive cancer care, including a breast cancer program. The hospital is accessible via the Beltway and is a significant resource for residents in the area.

The University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore offers comprehensive cancer care, including a breast cancer program. The hospital is accessible via the Baltimore-Washington Parkway.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Hyattsville (20784) reflects a mixed bag of *transportation* challenges and opportunities. While the area benefits from its proximity to major medical centers, the reliance on congested roadways and the limitations of public transit can hinder *healthcare access*. Ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services offer alternative solutions, but they come with their own considerations.

For those *moving to Hyattsville* with a history of breast cancer or a heightened risk, the accessibility of healthcare is a critical factor. Careful consideration of *transportation* options, including drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing services, is essential. Planning medical appointments strategically, allowing ample time for travel, and exploring all available resources will help ensure timely and effective care. The Breast Cancer Score for 20784 is, therefore, "moderate," requiring proactive planning to navigate the complexities of *transportation* to healthcare.