21225, Brooklyn, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21225, Brooklyn, Maryland is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.36 percent of residents in 21225 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Maryland Medical Center with a distance of 3.63 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21225

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as serious as a breast cancer diagnosis, is a multifaceted challenge. It involves not only the medical aspects but also the practical considerations of getting to appointments. This write-up examines the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare in ZIP code 21225, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patient access. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment.

ZIP code 21225, encompassing portions of Baltimore, Maryland, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While it offers a range of medical facilities, the availability and ease of reaching these resources are crucial for women facing breast cancer. This analysis considers the practical realities of navigating the area, recognizing that transportation barriers can significantly affect treatment adherence and overall well-being.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For those who drive, the primary routes to consider are Interstate 95 (I-95), the major north-south artery, and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), offering a more direct route to the city's southern reaches. From 21225, accessing major hospitals like the University of Maryland Medical Center or Johns Hopkins Hospital often involves navigating these highways. During peak hours, congestion on I-95 can be substantial, adding significant time to the commute.

The drive to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a major cancer treatment center, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under ideal conditions. However, rush hour can easily double this time, making it a considerable burden for patients undergoing treatment. The Baltimore-Washington Parkway provides an alternative, but its limited access points can also create delays.

Smaller hospitals and clinics within the city, such as those in the downtown area, might be reached within 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Local roads like Washington Boulevard and Russell Street offer alternative routes, but they are often subject to stop-and-go traffic and traffic lights. The variability in drive times underscores the importance of planning and flexibility for patients in 21225.

**Public Transit: The Steel Rails and Rubber Tires**

Baltimore's public transit system, operated by the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA), offers bus and light rail services. The bus network is extensive, with numerous routes serving 21225. However, bus travel times can be significantly longer than driving, often involving multiple transfers.

Several bus routes, including the 26 and 27, connect 21225 to downtown Baltimore, where many hospitals and cancer centers are located. These routes, while providing essential access, can experience delays due to traffic and scheduled stops. The light rail, while faster than buses, might require a transfer or a longer walk from the station to the medical facility.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. The MTA strives to provide accessible buses and light rail stations, but not all stations are fully compliant. Patients with mobility issues need to confirm the accessibility of their chosen route and station before traveling. This is especially important for those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, which can affect mobility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. They provide door-to-door service, which can be particularly beneficial for patients who are feeling unwell or have difficulty walking. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly add up, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services specialize in providing transportation for patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist patients. While they can be more expensive than ride-sharing, they provide a higher level of care and support.

Brands like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private companies offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be particularly useful for patients who need assistance with mobility or who require specialized equipment. The availability and cost of these services vary, so it's essential to research options and compare prices.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 21225 considers the interplay of these transportation factors. It acknowledges that healthcare access is not just about the presence of medical facilities but also about the ease and affordability of reaching them.

The score would incorporate the following elements:

* **Drive Time Variability:** The average and peak-hour drive times to major cancer centers.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of bus and light rail services.
* **Ride-Sharing Affordability:** The estimated cost of ride-sharing services to medical appointments.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** The availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Neighborhood Walkability:** The accessibility of local clinics and pharmacies on foot.

A higher score would indicate better healthcare access, reflecting shorter drive times, reliable public transit, affordable ride-sharing, and readily available medical transport. Conversely, a lower score would highlight the challenges faced by patients in accessing care, emphasizing the need for improvements in transportation infrastructure and services.

**Moving to Brooklyn: A Comparative Perspective**

When considering moving to Brooklyn, a comparison of healthcare access is essential. Brooklyn, with its extensive public transit system and diverse healthcare options, might offer a different landscape. While Brooklyn also faces traffic congestion, the availability of the subway system can significantly reduce commute times.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Brooklyn would likely reflect a higher level of accessibility due to the abundance of public transit options. However, the cost of living and healthcare in Brooklyn could also be higher. The decision to move involves weighing these factors, considering the trade-offs between transportation convenience, cost, and other lifestyle preferences.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Access to breast cancer healthcare in 21225 presents a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. While the area is served by major highways, traffic congestion can significantly impact commute times. Public transit offers an alternative, but it requires careful planning and consideration of ADA accessibility. Ride-sharing and medical transport provide convenient options, but they come with associated costs.

The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access, highlighting the need for improvements in transportation infrastructure and services. By understanding the complexities of transportation, patients in 21225 can navigate the journey to healthcare with greater confidence and ease. The decision to move, whether to Brooklyn or elsewhere, should incorporate a careful assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, ensuring that the journey to care is as smooth and supportive as possible.