20866, Burtonsville, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20866, Burtonsville, Maryland is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.46 percent of residents in 20866 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Montgomery Medical Center with a distance of 6.91 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burtonsville (ZIP Code 20866)**

Considering a move to Burtonsville, Maryland (ZIP Code 20866)? This assessment offers a nuanced perspective on healthcare access, specifically concerning breast cancer care, a crucial consideration for women of all ages. Understanding the **transportation** landscape is paramount, as it directly impacts timely appointments, treatments, and overall well-being. This analysis will delve into the realities of reaching essential medical services, providing a framework for informed decision-making.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative exploration of the challenges and opportunities presented by Burtonsville's location. It considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a comprehensive view for those prioritizing **healthcare access**. This is particularly relevant for individuals seeking specialized breast cancer care, including screenings, diagnoses, treatment, and follow-up appointments.

**Driving to Care: The Highway and Road Network**

Burtonsville's proximity to major highways offers both advantages and disadvantages. The primary artery is the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), providing relatively quick access to hospitals in both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. However, rush hour traffic can transform this into a parking lot, significantly extending travel times.

The Intercounty Connector (ICC/MD-200) offers a faster, albeit toll-based, alternative for east-west travel. This route connects to I-95, opening up access to medical centers in the northern and southern suburbs. The ICC's efficiency is a significant benefit, but the tolls represent an added financial burden.

Local roads like Route 29 (Columbia Pike) and Old Columbia Pike are crucial for navigating within Burtonsville and connecting to surrounding communities. These roads, however, are often congested, especially during peak hours, adding to the overall travel time.

Drive times to major hospitals vary considerably. Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, a facility with a comprehensive breast cancer program, can be reached in approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic on the Beltway (I-495). The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, renowned for its cancer care, is typically a 45-60 minute drive, contingent on traffic conditions on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. MedStar Washington Hospital Center in D.C. is usually a 30-45 minute drive, also contingent on traffic.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus Routes**

Public **transportation** options in Burtonsville, while available, present limitations. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service, but the routes are often infrequent and may require transfers. This can significantly increase travel times to medical appointments.

Several MTA bus routes serve Burtonsville, including the 101, 102, and 104. These routes connect to the Glenmont and Greenbelt Metro stations, offering access to the Red and Green lines, respectively. However, the walk from the bus stop to the medical facility, especially for those undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues, can be a significant challenge.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. MTA buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating transfers should be carefully considered when planning medical trips.

The Metro system itself provides a more extensive network, but the distance from Burtonsville to the nearest stations can be a barrier. The Red Line offers access to medical facilities in the Bethesda and Washington, D.C. areas. The Green Line serves hospitals in the D.C. and Baltimore areas. The Green Line also serves the University of Maryland Medical Center.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the cost can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. Availability can also be an issue during peak hours or in areas with limited service.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide and LogistiCare, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services offer door-to-door service and can accommodate passengers with mobility limitations. However, they often require pre-booking and may have limited availability. The costs can vary depending on the distance and the level of assistance required.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

The availability of comprehensive breast cancer care in the surrounding area is a crucial factor. Hospitals like Suburban Hospital, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and MedStar Washington Hospital Center offer specialized breast cancer centers with advanced diagnostic and treatment options. These facilities provide a range of services, including mammograms, biopsies, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

The proximity to these facilities is a significant advantage for residents of Burtonsville. However, the **transportation** challenges discussed above can still impact **healthcare access**.

**Moving to Burtonsville: A Balanced Perspective**

Burtonsville offers a desirable lifestyle, but prospective residents must carefully weigh the **transportation** challenges associated with accessing healthcare. While the location provides access to excellent medical facilities, the reliance on driving or public transit can pose obstacles, especially for those with mobility issues or undergoing treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a definitive judgment but a guide for informed decision-making. Prospective residents should consider their individual needs, preferences, and financial resources when evaluating the suitability of Burtonsville.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

* **Assess Your Transportation Needs:** Consider your ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to assist with transportation, and the cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Explore Public Transit Options:** Familiarize yourself with MTA bus routes and Metro lines. Evaluate the accessibility and convenience of these options for your specific needs.
* **Investigate Medical Transport Services:** Research medical transport providers and understand their services, costs, and availability.
* **Plan for Traffic:** Factor in potential delays due to traffic congestion when scheduling medical appointments.
* **Consider Proximity to Medical Facilities:** Prioritize locations within Burtonsville that offer convenient access to major hospitals and medical centers.
* **Consult with Healthcare Providers:** Discuss your **transportation** concerns with your healthcare providers and explore options for scheduling appointments and accessing care.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their **healthcare access** in Burtonsville. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to empower prospective residents to navigate the **transportation** landscape and ensure they receive the timely and effective care they deserve. This information is critical for anyone **moving to Burtonsville** who values their health and well-being.