21048, Finksburg, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21048, Finksburg, Maryland is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.86 percent of residents in 21048 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carroll Hospital Center with a distance of 5.48 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Finksburg, MD (ZIP Code 21048)**

For those considering a move to Finksburg, Maryland (ZIP code 21048), or already residing there, understanding the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment, is paramount. This assessment, a "Breast Cancer Score," considers various transportation options, providing a comprehensive overview of healthcare access. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. This analysis focuses on commute times, public transportation, and ride-sharing options, crucial components of healthcare access.

The foundation of healthcare access is reliable transportation. In Finksburg, the primary arteries for vehicular travel are **Maryland Route 140 (Westminster Pike)**, **Maryland Route 91 (Hanover Pike)**, and **Interstate 795**. These roads are essential for navigating the region and reaching healthcare facilities. Drive times are a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score, as they directly impact how quickly individuals can access potentially life-saving services.

For routine screenings, such as mammograms, residents of Finksburg can typically reach the nearest facilities within a reasonable timeframe. The **Carroll Hospital Center**, located in Westminster, is a significant healthcare provider. Driving there from the heart of Finksburg, depending on traffic, usually takes approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 140. This drive time is generally considered favorable, providing relatively quick access to essential screening services.

However, for specialized care, such as oncology treatment, the commute may extend. The **University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center** in Towson offers comprehensive cancer care. Traveling to St. Joseph's from Finksburg involves a drive of roughly 30-45 minutes, primarily using I-795 and the Baltimore Beltway (I-695). This longer commute highlights the importance of considering the frequency of appointments and the potential impact on daily life.

Public transportation options in the Finksburg area are more limited. The **Maryland Transit Administration (MTA)** does not directly serve Finksburg with bus routes. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The absence of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation providers.

For individuals who cannot drive, ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** offer alternative transportation solutions. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, especially during peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The Breast Cancer Score must account for the potential financial burden and logistical challenges associated with relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as **CareRide** and **LogistiCare**, are specialized providers that offer transportation for medical appointments. These services are often designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or other specific needs. While these options are valuable, they may require pre-booking and can have associated costs, further influencing the Breast Cancer Score.

Healthcare access is not just about physical proximity; it's also about the ease of reaching the facility. The Breast Cancer Score considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities, including factors like parking availability, ease of navigation within the building, and the availability of support services. These factors are essential in ensuring a positive patient experience and reducing the stress associated with medical appointments.

For those considering moving to Finksburg, the Breast Cancer Score should factor into the decision-making process. While the area offers relatively good access to routine screenings, the commute times to specialized cancer care facilities are longer. The limited public transportation options necessitate reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation providers.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. Cancer treatment often involves emotional and psychological challenges. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience. Access to these resources is crucial for overall well-being and can influence the Breast Cancer Score.

When assessing the Breast Cancer Score, it's also essential to consider the specific healthcare needs of the individual. Factors such as age, medical history, and the stage of cancer diagnosis will influence the types of healthcare services required. The Breast Cancer Score should be tailored to reflect these individual needs.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static metric; it's a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare availability, and individual circumstances. Residents of Finksburg should regularly reassess their healthcare access options to ensure they can receive the care they need.

The Breast Cancer Score for Finksburg, MD (21048) is a nuanced evaluation of transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers reasonable access to screening services, the absence of robust public transportation and the longer commute times to specialized care facilities present challenges. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for residents and those contemplating a move to Finksburg, ensuring they can navigate the healthcare landscape effectively. The score emphasizes the importance of planning, exploring all available transportation options, and proactively seeking support services. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining health and well-being in the face of a breast cancer diagnosis.