21524, Corriganville, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21524, Corriganville, Maryland is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.35 percent of residents in 21524 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Western Maryland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.59 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Corriganville (ZIP Code 21524)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires accessible, reliable transportation, a critical component often overlooked when assessing healthcare access. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 21524 (Corriganville, Maryland), aims to provide a comprehensive “Breast Cancer Score,” evaluating the ease of transportation to essential breast cancer care facilities. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities facing residents seeking timely and effective treatment. Considering a move to Corriganville? This information will prove invaluable.

Corriganville, nestled in Allegany County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The area's relative remoteness, coupled with the specific needs of breast cancer patients, necessitates a careful examination of available options. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers factors like drive times to hospitals and cancer centers, public transit frequency and accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing services. This score will ultimately reflect the degree of ease or difficulty residents face in accessing critical breast cancer care.

**Driving Directions: The Road to Recovery**

For many residents, the primary mode of transportation will be personal vehicles. The drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore paramount. The closest major hospital, UPMC Western Maryland, is located in Cumberland, offering comprehensive cancer services. From central Corriganville, the drive primarily utilizes **Maryland Route 51 (National Highway)**, a major thoroughfare connecting the area to Cumberland.

Expect a drive time of approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short distance is a significant advantage for residents. Further specialized care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, might necessitate travel to facilities in Morgantown, West Virginia (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via **Interstate 68**), or Baltimore, Maryland (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes via **Interstate 68** and **Interstate 70**). These longer drives, while manageable, introduce potential challenges, including fatigue, the need for a driver, and increased transportation costs.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation in Allegany County is provided by the Allegany County Transit (ACT) system. However, the system's reach and frequency are limited, posing a significant challenge for those reliant on public transit. ACT primarily operates fixed-route buses, with limited service hours, particularly on weekends and evenings.

For residents of Corriganville, accessing the bus system requires traveling to designated stops, which may not be readily accessible to everyone. The ACT website provides route maps and schedules, but individuals should carefully assess the frequency and availability of routes serving their specific needs. The system is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, with accessible buses equipped with ramps and other features. However, the limited frequency of service can still pose a challenge.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, especially for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. However, the availability of these services in Corriganville can be inconsistent. Ride-share availability is highly dependent on driver density, which may be lower in rural areas.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to appointments, are another valuable resource. Several providers operate in the region, including MedStar Health and other private companies. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, accommodating individuals with mobility issues or other special needs. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve associated costs.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 21524 is not a single number but a multifaceted assessment. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The proximity to UPMC Western Maryland, offering comprehensive cancer care, is a significant advantage. However, the longer drives to specialized facilities in Morgantown and Baltimore introduce challenges.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The limited frequency and reach of the ACT system present a significant barrier for those reliant on public transit.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services could pose a challenge.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability of medical transportation services offers a vital lifeline for patients needing assistance.

**Moving to Corriganville: Considering the Healthcare Landscape**

For those considering a move to Corriganville, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While the proximity to UPMC Western Maryland is a positive factor, the limitations of public transit and potential inconsistencies in ride-share availability should be considered. Individuals relying on these services may need to plan ahead and explore alternative transportation options.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Corriganville highlights the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access. While the area offers access to essential services, challenges exist, particularly for those without personal vehicles or relying on public transit. Residents should proactively explore all available options, including ride-sharing, medical transportation, and support networks, to ensure timely and effective access to breast cancer care. This information is crucial for anyone navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, and it is especially important for those considering a move to Corriganville, Maryland. The journey to recovery is often complex, and understanding the transportation landscape is a vital step in ensuring a smoother and more accessible path to care.