21244, Windsor Mill, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21244, Windsor Mill, Maryland is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.66 percent of residents in 21244 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Hospital Center with a distance of 1.95 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21244**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer screening and treatment, is a complex equation. It's not just about the quality of care, but also about the ease with which individuals can access it. This analysis provides a 'Breast Cancer Score' for residents of ZIP code 21244 (Windsor Mill, Maryland), focusing on the crucial element of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**. For those **moving to Windsor Mill**, understanding these nuances is vital.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all contributing to the overall accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the logistical hurdles and advantages faced by residents in their quest for timely and effective care.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. The ability to drive quickly and efficiently to medical appointments is a significant factor in healthcare access. In 21244, the major roadways dictate the flow of traffic. The Baltimore Beltway (I-695) forms a crucial artery, offering access to hospitals and clinics in various directions. However, traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, can significantly impact drive times.

Heading east on I-695, one can reach Northwest Hospital in about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This proximity offers a relatively quick route for those needing immediate care or follow-up appointments. Further east, the drive to Sinai Hospital, another major healthcare provider, takes approximately 20-30 minutes, again influenced by traffic patterns.

Traveling south on the Beltway, access to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a comprehensive cancer center, is possible. This journey, however, can take upwards of 30-45 minutes, particularly during peak travel times. The drive involves navigating the complex interchange with I-95, a known bottleneck.

To the west, the drive to Carroll Hospital Center, though further out, can be a viable option for some, taking roughly 25-40 minutes via the Liberty Road (MD-26) corridor. This route, while less congested than the Beltway, still experiences periodic traffic delays.

These drive times, while estimates, highlight the dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for delays, especially for those with mobility limitations or without access to a car.

**Public Transit: The Bus and Beyond**

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides public transit options within 21244. Several bus routes serve the area, offering an alternative to driving. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes are crucial.

The number 51 bus, for instance, runs along Liberty Road, providing access to Northwest Hospital and other medical facilities. However, the frequency of this route, particularly on weekends and evenings, can be limited, potentially leading to long wait times.

The number 91 bus, another key route, serves the Windsor Mill area and connects to the Mondawmin Metro Station, offering a link to the broader public transportation network. From Mondawmin, individuals can transfer to the Metro Subway, which provides access to downtown Baltimore and other areas.

The accessibility of these routes is a critical consideration. The MTA is mandated to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, the availability of elevators and ramps at all bus stops is not always guaranteed, potentially creating challenges for those with mobility issues.

The convenience of public transit is also a factor. Transfers between bus routes and the Metro Subway can add significant travel time, making public transit less appealing for those with tight schedules or medical conditions that require frequent appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as valuable transportation options, particularly for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. The availability of these services in 21244 is generally good, offering on-demand transportation to medical appointments.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent appointments. The cost of a ride to a hospital or clinic can quickly add up, making it a less sustainable option for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare and other private companies, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers.

The availability of medical transport services in 21244 is generally good, but the cost can be substantial. Many insurance plans cover medical transport, but coverage varies depending on the plan and the medical necessity of the service.

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

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for 21244 considers all these factors. It's not a single number but a composite assessment that reflects the challenges and opportunities for accessing breast cancer-related healthcare.

The score is influenced by drive times, which can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. Public transit, while offering an alternative, is limited by frequency, coverage, and transfer times. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide additional options, but their cost can be a barrier.

For those **moving to Windsor Mill**, the score provides a valuable insight into the realities of healthcare access. It underscores the importance of considering transportation options when choosing a place to live and the need for proactive planning to ensure timely access to care.

The score also highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and services. This includes advocating for increased bus frequency, expanding the availability of ADA-accessible transportation, and exploring ways to make ride-sharing and medical transport more affordable and accessible.

Ultimately, the 'Breast Cancer Score' is a call to action. It reminds us that healthcare access is not just about the quality of medical care but also about the ability of individuals to reach that care. By understanding the transportation landscape in 21244, residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers can work together to create a more equitable and accessible healthcare system for all.