21120, Parkton, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21120, Parkton, Maryland is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.39 percent of residents in 21120 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carroll Hospital Center with a distance of 17.73 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21120

The journey to quality breast cancer care is multifaceted, demanding not only skilled medical professionals but also seamless **transportation** options. For residents of Parkton, Maryland (ZIP Code 21120), this journey presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the ease of **healthcare access** in this community, considering factors like drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing availability. Understanding these elements is crucial, especially for individuals considering **moving to Parkton**, as they plan their healthcare needs.

Parkton, nestled in Baltimore County, offers a tranquil, rural atmosphere. However, its distance from major medical centers necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** infrastructure. The score reflects the reality that while the area provides a peaceful living environment, accessing potentially life-saving breast cancer treatments requires diligent planning.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Access**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in 21120 are the roadways. Driving is often the most direct route, yet travel times can vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day.

For residents, the most immediate option is typically Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC), located approximately 15-20 miles south. This drive, usually taken via **I-83 South** and **Dulaney Valley Road**, can take 30-45 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. Rush hour, however, can easily extend this commute, potentially adding an extra 15-30 minutes.

Another crucial destination is Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore City. The journey, primarily along **I-83 South** and the **Jones Falls Expressway**, can take 45-60 minutes in ideal conditions. Traffic, particularly during peak hours, can transform this drive into a 75-90 minute ordeal, emphasizing the importance of planning and flexibility.

University of Maryland Medical Center, also in Baltimore City, presents a similar challenge, with a comparable drive time along **I-83 South** and various city streets. The presence of construction or unexpected traffic incidents can further complicate these journeys, demanding vigilance and alternative route planning.

These drive times, while manageable, underscore the dependence on personal vehicles. Individuals without access to a car, or those unable to drive due to medical conditions, face significant hurdles in accessing timely care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transit options in 21120 are limited. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve areas closer to Baltimore City.

Bus Route 9, for example, offers some service along **York Road**, but its frequency and coverage are insufficient for reliable access to major hospitals. This route does not extend directly into the heart of Parkton, requiring a transfer or a considerable walk. The bus stops are not always conveniently located, and the schedules may not align with the appointment times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair accessibility, are available on MTA buses. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service make public transit a challenging option for many residents, particularly those undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive themselves. However, availability can be variable in more rural areas like Parkton. Surge pricing, particularly during peak hours or periods of high demand, can also make these services expensive.

Medical transportation services, such as LogistiCare and Medical Transportation Management (MTM), offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, eligibility criteria and prior authorization requirements may apply, and scheduling appointments well in advance is crucial.

These services represent a vital lifeline for some residents, but their availability and cost must be carefully considered. The reliance on external services highlights the need for a robust and accessible **transportation** infrastructure to ensure equitable **healthcare access**.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for 21120 is not a single number but a complex evaluation of these factors. It acknowledges the advantages of a rural setting but also highlights the challenges related to **transportation**.

The score considers drive times to major hospitals, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. It also takes into account the potential impact of traffic congestion, weather conditions, and individual mobility limitations.

The score is designed to provide a realistic assessment of the ease with which residents of 21120 can access breast cancer care. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, including exploring all available **transportation** options and understanding the resources available within the community.

**Moving to Parkton: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering **moving to Parkton**, this score is a crucial element in their decision-making process. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the distance from major medical centers and the limitations of **transportation** options must be carefully weighed.

Potential residents should research the availability of medical services, assess their personal **transportation** needs, and familiarize themselves with the local resources. They should also consider the potential impact of traffic, weather, and personal health conditions on their ability to access timely care.

The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that **healthcare access** is not just about the quality of medical care but also about the ease with which individuals can reach it. By understanding the **transportation** landscape in 21120, residents and prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure they have the support they need to navigate their healthcare journey. The goal is to empower individuals to proactively manage their health and to advocate for improved **healthcare access** within their community.