21223, Baltimore, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21223, Baltimore, Maryland is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.55 percent of residents in 21223 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Maryland Medical Center with a distance of 1.29 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 21223**

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer. This report, a "Breast Cancer Score," analyzes transportation options available to residents of ZIP code 21223 in Baltimore, Maryland, focusing on ease of access to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to Baltimore.

ZIP code 21223, encompassing the Brooklyn and Curtis Bay neighborhoods, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Proximity to major roadways and public transit lines is a key factor in determining the Breast Cancer Score. The goal is to provide a clear picture of how easily individuals can reach vital healthcare services.

**Drive Times and Roadway Navigation**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the ability to navigate Baltimore’s roadways is crucial. From 21223, access to major hospitals and cancer centers is generally facilitated by several key routes. The Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) offers a direct route north, providing relatively quick access to facilities like the University of Maryland Medical Center, typically a 15-25 minute drive depending on traffic.

Interstate 95, a major artery, offers another avenue, though it can be prone to congestion, especially during peak hours. Heading north on I-95 allows access to the Johns Hopkins Hospital, a renowned cancer center, usually within a 20-35 minute drive. Southbound on I-95 presents access to facilities in the surrounding counties.

Local roads, like Pennington Avenue and Hanover Street, provide alternative routes, though they can be slower due to traffic lights and local traffic. These routes may be preferable during peak traffic times on the major highways. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the variability in drive times based on traffic conditions, which can significantly impact healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City's Network**

Baltimore's public transit system, managed by the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA), offers another mode of transportation. Several bus routes serve ZIP code 21223. The CityLink Navy route, for example, travels along Hanover Street and provides connections to downtown Baltimore, where many hospitals and cancer centers are located.

The MTA's LocalLink routes also offer service, though frequency and route coverage can vary. The 70 and 71 routes provide connections to the light rail system, which can then be used to access hospitals. The Light Rail, while not directly serving 21223, can be accessed via bus connections.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor. The MTA strives to provide accessible buses and light rail stations, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating. However, individuals with mobility challenges should confirm the accessibility of specific routes and stations before planning their journeys. The Breast Cancer Score will evaluate the reliability and accessibility of public transit options.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or using public transit. These services can be particularly helpful for individuals who cannot drive or who need door-to-door service. However, ride-sharing costs can be a barrier for some.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients, provide another option. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation to and from medical appointments. Companies like MedStar Mobile Healthcare and other private medical transport services operate in the Baltimore area. The Breast Cancer Score will consider the availability and cost-effectiveness of these options.

**Healthcare Access: The Heart of the Score**

The Breast Cancer Score considers the proximity of healthcare facilities specializing in breast cancer care. The University of Maryland Medical Center, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Mercy Medical Center are all major players in the region, offering comprehensive services. The score will factor in the drive times, public transit travel times, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport to these facilities.

The score will also consider the availability of screening facilities, such as mammography centers, within a reasonable distance. Early detection is critical in breast cancer treatment, so access to screening is a vital component of the overall score.

**Impact of Transportation on Treatment**

Transportation challenges can significantly impact a patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans. Frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits require reliable and convenient transportation. Long travel times, unreliable public transit, or the cost of ride-sharing can create barriers to care, potentially affecting treatment outcomes.

The Breast Cancer Score aims to highlight these challenges and provide a framework for understanding the transportation landscape in ZIP code 21223. The score will offer a comprehensive assessment, considering all the variables.

**Moving to Baltimore: Considerations for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Baltimore, understanding healthcare access is crucial. ZIP code 21223 offers a mix of advantages and disadvantages regarding transportation and healthcare. Proximity to major roadways provides relatively easy access to hospitals, but traffic congestion and the limitations of public transit should be considered.

The Breast Cancer Score can be a valuable tool for prospective residents, providing insights into the ease of access to breast cancer services. It helps to make informed decisions about where to live, considering the critical importance of healthcare access.

**Conclusion: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 21223 will synthesize all these factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. The score will reflect the drive times, the reliability and accessibility of public transit, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the proximity of healthcare facilities. This information is crucial for residents of 21223 and for those considering moving to Baltimore, ensuring that they can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The goal is to empower individuals to navigate the transportation landscape and access the critical care they need.