21532, Frostburg, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21532, Frostburg, Maryland is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.19 percent of residents in 21532 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Western Maryland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.42 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21532

The quest for timely and accessible breast cancer care in ZIP Code 21532, encompassing Frostburg, Maryland, demands a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," aims to illuminate the pathways to healthcare, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for residents, potential newcomers considering moving to Frostburg, and anyone seeking proactive healthcare access.

The geographical reality of 21532, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, significantly shapes transportation dynamics. The rugged terrain and limited infrastructure pose challenges to healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing mobility limitations or relying on public transit. This score will assess the ease with which residents can reach essential breast cancer services, including mammograms, biopsies, surgical consultations, and follow-up appointments.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for many residents of 21532. The journey to specialized breast cancer care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers located in Cumberland, Maryland, or even further afield to Morgantown, West Virginia. The primary arteries for this travel are Interstate 68 (I-68) and U.S. Route 40.

A drive to UPMC Western Maryland in Cumberland, the closest major healthcare provider, typically involves a 20-30 minute journey via I-68 East. This drive is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can transform I-68 into a treacherous passage, potentially delaying or even preventing access to critical appointments.

For more specialized care, such as advanced surgical procedures or clinical trials, patients may need to travel to Morgantown, West Virginia, home to WVU Medicine. This trip, primarily via I-68 West, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Morgantown.

Other roads, such as Maryland Route 36 and U.S. Route 219, offer alternative routes, but these are often slower and less direct. These routes can be useful for avoiding traffic on I-68, but they are often more winding and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues or those unfamiliar with the area.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in 21532 are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Allegany CountyAllegany County Transit (ACT) provides bus service within Allegany County, but its routes and schedules may not adequately serve the needs of breast cancer patients.

The ACT operates fixed routes, but these routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities, requiring transfers or long wait times. Furthermore, the frequency of service, particularly on weekends and evenings, can be infrequent, making it challenging to schedule appointments and return home.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. ACT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating transfers can still be a concern. The ACT website and customer service should be consulted for specific information regarding ADA compliance on each route.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Gaps in the System**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability and reliability can vary. The rural nature of 21532 may result in longer wait times and higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This can place a financial burden on patients and limit their ability to access care.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including MedStar Health and FirstCall Medical Transportation.

However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and coverage by insurance varies. Patients should investigate their insurance policies and explore financial assistance programs to mitigate the cost. Booking in advance is crucial, as these services can have limited availability, especially during peak appointment times.

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

The Breast Cancer Score for 21532 is not a single number but a multifaceted evaluation. It considers drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and the availability and affordability of medical transport.

A high score indicates easy access to breast cancer services, with multiple transportation options available and minimal travel time. A low score suggests significant challenges, with limited transportation choices, long travel times, and potential financial burdens.

**Factors Impacting the Score:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance to hospitals and specialized cancer centers.
* **Public Transit Frequency and Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and ADA compliance of bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** The reliability and affordability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Options and Coverage:** The availability, cost, and insurance coverage of medical transport services.
* **Weather Conditions:** The impact of inclement weather on travel times and safety.
* **Personal Mobility:** The individual's physical limitations and need for assistance.
* **Financial Resources:** The patient's ability to afford transportation costs.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Expand Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of ACT bus routes, particularly to healthcare facilities.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Encourage ride-sharing services to expand their presence in the area and offer discounted fares for medical appointments.
* **Support Medical Transport:** Advocate for increased insurance coverage for medical transport services and explore financial assistance programs.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Maintain and improve road conditions, particularly on I-68, to ensure safe and reliable travel.
* **Community Education:** Raise awareness about available transportation options and resources for breast cancer patients.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Promote telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for follow-up care.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The Breast Cancer Score for 21532 highlights the challenges and opportunities for accessing breast cancer care. While the rugged terrain and limited transportation infrastructure present obstacles, proactive measures can improve healthcare access. By addressing transportation barriers, promoting community awareness, and advocating for improved services, the community can empower residents, especially those considering moving to Frostburg, to navigate their healthcare journey with greater ease and confidence. The goal is to ensure that all residents of 21532 have timely and equitable access to the life-saving care they deserve.