21239, Baltimore, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21239, Baltimore, Maryland is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.13 percent of residents in 21239 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Good Samaritan Hospital with a distance of 0.23 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21239

For those considering a move to Baltimore, particularly within the 21239 ZIP code, understanding healthcare access, especially for critical needs like breast cancer care, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation challenges and options, allowing prospective residents to evaluate the practicality of receiving timely and comprehensive care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture of the journey to healthcare within this specific area.

The 21239 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Northeast Baltimore, presents a unique transportation landscape. Its proximity to major thoroughfares like the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), Interstate 95, and the Pulaski Highway (US-40) offers both opportunities and potential pitfalls regarding healthcare access. The score will consider the ease of reaching key cancer treatment centers, including those affiliated with Johns Hopkins, the University of Maryland, and other prominent institutions.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. The drive time to healthcare facilities significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. From the heart of 21239, a trip to the Johns Hopkins Hospital, a leading cancer treatment center, can fluctuate dramatically. During off-peak hours, the journey via the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and I-95 might take approximately 15-20 minutes, offering relatively swift access. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily balloon to 45 minutes or longer, highlighting the vulnerability of relying solely on personal vehicles.

The University of Maryland Medical Center, another vital resource, is also accessible by car. The route, often involving the Pulaski Highway and I-95, typically takes 20-30 minutes during non-peak hours. Congestion, especially near the city center, can drastically extend this timeframe, impacting the Breast Cancer Score negatively. Prospective residents should consider their work commutes and lifestyle when assessing drive-time reliability.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Baltimore's public transit system, while offering an alternative to driving, presents its own set of challenges. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus services, offering potential routes to healthcare facilities. However, the reliability and frequency of these routes are crucial factors. The MTA's Route 15, for instance, runs through parts of 21239 and can connect to downtown areas, but the journey to major hospitals often involves transfers, adding significant time and potential stress.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. The MTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses and train stations, but the availability of elevators, ramps, and other accommodations can vary. Prospective residents should research the specific accessibility features of routes relevant to their healthcare needs. The limited operating hours of some routes, especially on weekends and evenings, can further complicate healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, offering convenience and potentially shorter travel times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas, can also impact reliability.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are specifically designed to assist patients with healthcare appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance, they often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

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

The Breast Cancer Score for 21239 isn't a simple number but a comprehensive assessment. It considers drive times, public transit reliability, ADA accessibility, ride-share availability, and the cost-effectiveness of medical transport. The score emphasizes the importance of considering the entire transportation ecosystem, acknowledging the potential challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare.

For individuals considering moving to Baltimore, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for healthcare access. The score is particularly relevant for those with pre-existing conditions or those seeking proactive healthcare. The proximity of 21239 to major roadways offers advantages, but the reliance on personal vehicles can be a vulnerability during peak hours. The public transit system provides an alternative, but its reliability and accessibility must be carefully evaluated. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer additional options, but their cost and availability should be considered.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

The Breast Cancer Score encourages prospective residents to research and plan their transportation strategies. It highlights the importance of considering the specific needs of each individual, including their mobility, financial resources, and the frequency of healthcare appointments. The score is a tool for making informed decisions about moving to Baltimore, ensuring that healthcare access is a central consideration.

The goal is to empower individuals to navigate the transportation challenges and find the most effective pathways to healthcare. This includes exploring all available options, from driving to public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, ultimately ensuring access to the vital care needed. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that a smooth commute to healthcare is a critical component of a healthy and fulfilling life, especially for those facing the complexities of breast cancer treatment.