21136, Reisterstown, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21136, Reisterstown, Maryland is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.55 percent of residents in 21136 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Hospital Center with a distance of 7.23 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Reisterstown, MD (ZIP Code 21136)**

Relocating to a new community, especially when considering healthcare needs, demands thorough investigation. For individuals seeking optimal breast cancer care, the accessibility of treatment facilities becomes paramount. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for Reisterstown, Maryland (ZIP Code 21136), evaluates the ease of transportation to key medical centers, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview of healthcare access for prospective residents.

Reisterstown, a charming suburb nestled in Baltimore County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient proximity to the city. Its location, however, necessitates a nuanced understanding of transportation networks to access specialized medical care, particularly for breast cancer treatment. This score illuminates the realities of commuting to healthcare, helping potential residents make informed decisions about their new home.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary mode of transportation for many Reisterstown residents is personal vehicles. Therefore, assessing drive times to major breast cancer treatment centers is crucial. The most direct route to many facilities involves navigating the major thoroughfares.

The journey to the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, a well-regarded institution for cancer care, typically entails traveling south on **I-795 (Northwest Expressway)**. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive can range from 10 to 20 minutes. This route offers relatively straightforward access, making it a favorable option for those seeking care at St. Joseph's.

Another prominent destination for breast cancer treatment is the Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC). The drive to GBMC often utilizes **I-695 (Baltimore Beltway)**, traveling east. This route, while generally efficient, can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Expect a commute time of 20 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic flow.

For those seeking specialized care at Johns Hopkins Hospital in downtown Baltimore, the journey necessitates traversing **I-795** to **I-695** and then **I-83 (Jones Falls Expressway)** south. This commute, while offering access to world-class facilities, can be lengthy, typically taking 30 to 45 minutes, again contingent on traffic.

Finally, accessing the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) involves a similar route to Johns Hopkins, but with a slightly different turn off of **I-83**. The drive time is comparable, ranging from 30 to 45 minutes, highlighting the need to factor in potential delays.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

While personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation, public transit offers an alternative for those who prefer it or lack access to a car. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service in the Reisterstown area, although direct routes to major medical centers are limited.

The **MTA Route 94** offers service within Reisterstown and connects to the Owings Mills Metro Station. From there, passengers can access the subway system, which provides connections to downtown Baltimore. However, this route necessitates multiple transfers, adding significant travel time.

The **MTA Route 87** provides another option, but it also requires transfers to reach hospitals. These routes, while offering a cost-effective alternative, can be time-consuming and may not be ideal for individuals undergoing treatment who need to minimize travel time.

The accessibility of public transit is also a crucial consideration. The MTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses and subway stations, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of elevators and ramps at all stations should be verified, and the frequency of service should be evaluated based on individual needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Expanding Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient and readily available transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation to medical appointments, eliminating the need to drive or navigate public transit. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it offers a flexible alternative for those seeking personalized transportation.

In addition to ride-sharing, medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments. Companies like CareRide and LogistiCare offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service and assistance for those with mobility limitations. These services often provide specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Reisterstown, MD (21136), considers the interplay of these transportation options. While drive times to major medical centers are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of car ownership. Public transit, while available, may not be the most efficient option for frequent appointments. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer valuable alternatives, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those seeking a more convenient travel experience.

**Moving to Reisterstown: A Balanced Perspective**

For individuals considering a move to Reisterstown, this analysis provides a balanced perspective on healthcare access. While the area offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, the proximity to major medical centers and the availability of transportation options must be carefully evaluated. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for prospective residents, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall quality of life.

The score, therefore, is not a simple numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape. It underscores the importance of planning and preparation, ensuring that individuals have access to the care they need, when they need it. By considering the drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, potential residents can confidently navigate the healthcare system and make Reisterstown their new home.