21219, Sparrows Point, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21219, Sparrows Point, Maryland is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.80 percent of residents in 21219 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center with a distance of 7.02 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Accessing Care in 21219

The pursuit of healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates accessible and reliable transportation, a crucial element often overlooked when evaluating the quality of care. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 21219, the heart of Baltimore's Highlandtown and Canton neighborhoods, to assess its impact on breast cancer care access. This is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to the area, especially with the ongoing developments at Sparrows Point.

Our focus centers on the journey to key healthcare providers specializing in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. These include comprehensive cancer centers, hospitals with dedicated oncology departments, and specialized imaging facilities. We will examine the available transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, factoring in travel times, accessibility features, and overall convenience. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the ease with which individuals in 21219 can access potentially life-saving care.

The cornerstone of transportation in 21219 is, of course, the private vehicle. The proximity to major roadways is a significant advantage. Interstate 95 (I-95), a vital north-south artery, provides rapid access to hospitals located north of the city, such as Johns Hopkins Hospital, and south, towards the University of Maryland Medical Center. The drive to Johns Hopkins, for instance, can be accomplished in approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Similarly, the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) offers a direct route to the University of Maryland Medical Center, generally taking around 15-25 minutes. However, rush hour can significantly impact these times, potentially doubling travel durations. Road closures or accidents on these major highways can create considerable delays, necessitating alternative routes. Key local roads, such as Eastern Avenue and Boston Street, provide access to local hospitals and imaging centers, offering alternative routes when I-95 or the Parkway are congested.

Public transportation in 21219, while present, presents a more nuanced picture. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates several bus routes serving the area. The number 13 bus, for example, travels along Eastern Avenue, connecting Highlandtown and Canton to downtown Baltimore, where several major hospitals and cancer centers are located. The number 22 bus offers a direct route to Johns Hopkins Hospital. The number 7 bus, though less frequent, provides access to the west side of the city.

However, bus travel times are often considerably longer than driving, potentially adding an hour or more to the commute. Furthermore, the frequency of bus service can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. While the MTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility challenges, the reliance on bus schedules and potential for delays can pose significant challenges for those undergoing treatment or experiencing fatigue.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to both driving and public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate bus routes or worry about parking. The availability of ride-sharing is generally good in 21219, with wait times typically ranging from 5-10 minutes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

The cost of these services can quickly accumulate, potentially becoming a barrier to accessing care for individuals with limited financial resources. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further exacerbate this issue. While ride-sharing offers flexibility and convenience, its financial implications must be carefully considered when assessing its overall accessibility.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility issues. Companies such as Logisticare and Veyo operate in the Baltimore area, offering non-emergency medical transportation.

However, access to these services may require prior authorization or eligibility based on insurance coverage or financial need. Scheduling appointments and coordinating transportation can also add to the logistical burden for patients. While medical transportation services provide a vital resource for those with specific needs, they are not always readily available or easily accessible.

The ongoing development at Sparrows Point, with its potential for new housing and population growth, adds another layer of complexity to the transportation equation. As the population of the area increases, the demand for transportation services will undoubtedly rise. This could potentially lead to increased traffic congestion, longer bus wait times, and higher ride-sharing costs.

The expansion of public transit options, including potential new bus routes or even light rail extensions, will be crucial to meeting the growing transportation needs of the community. This is an important aspect of any decision about moving to the area. The availability of convenient and affordable transportation will directly impact the ability of residents, including those diagnosed with breast cancer, to access the healthcare they need.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 21219 reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While the proximity to major highways offers the advantage of relatively quick access to hospitals by private vehicle, the reliance on public transit presents challenges in terms of travel time, frequency, and accessibility. Ride-sharing services provide convenience but can be costly. Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance but may be subject to eligibility requirements and logistical hurdles.

The future of healthcare access in 21219 is closely tied to the ongoing development of transportation infrastructure and the ability of the community to adapt to the changing needs of its residents. For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the availability of reliable, affordable, and accessible transportation is not merely a convenience; it is a critical component of their overall care and well-being. The score should reflect the multifaceted nature of transportation, healthcare access, and the evolving landscape of a community on the move.