21561, Swanton, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21561, Swanton, Maryland is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.68 percent of residents in 21561 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.09 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Swanton, Maryland (ZIP Code 21561)

The decision to relocate is often intertwined with concerns about healthcare access, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions. For those considering a move to Swanton, Maryland (ZIP Code 21561), understanding the landscape of breast cancer care is paramount. This analysis provides a “Breast Cancer Score,” a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and healthcare resources, specifically for individuals seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment in this rural area.

Swanton, nestled in the heart of Garrett County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The county's geographical remoteness necessitates a detailed examination of transportation options, impacting the ease and timeliness of accessing vital medical services. This write-up will explore the various modes of transportation available, assess drive times to relevant healthcare facilities, and evaluate the accessibility of public transit and ride-sharing services.

The Breast Cancer Score for Swanton hinges on several key factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of transportation options, and the availability of support services. We will examine these elements to paint a clear picture of the healthcare landscape for individuals seeking breast cancer care in this specific ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Highway Navigation:**

The primary mode of transportation in Swanton is, unsurprisingly, personal vehicles. The nearest hospitals offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in Cumberland, Maryland, and Morgantown, West Virginia. The journey to Cumberland, home to UPMC Western Maryland, requires navigating a network of roads, with the most direct route utilizing Interstate 68 (I-68).

From Swanton, a drive to UPMC Western Maryland, a facility offering diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and radiation therapy, typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route primarily involves taking Maryland Route 219 south, merging onto I-68 West. This is a relatively straightforward drive, though winter weather can significantly impact travel times.

Alternatively, the drive to Morgantown, West Virginia, and facilities such as WVU Medicine, requires a longer commute. The route involves taking I-68 West, then transitioning to I-79 South. This journey can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic and construction. While WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive cancer center, the longer travel time presents a significant barrier to care.

The condition of the roads, particularly during winter, can pose a challenge. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to essential medical appointments. This underscores the importance of having a reliable vehicle and being prepared for unpredictable weather conditions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Garrett County are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The county operates a demand-response transit system, Garrett Transit, which provides door-to-door service for residents. However, this service is primarily designed for local travel and may not be suitable for long-distance trips to healthcare facilities in Cumberland or Morgantown.

Garrett Transit operates on a reservation basis, requiring advance booking. The availability of rides can be limited, particularly during peak hours. The system is designed to be ADA-accessible, offering services for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and potential for extended travel times make it a less-than-ideal option for breast cancer patients requiring frequent appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the larger cities, but their presence in Swanton and Garrett County is limited. Availability can be sporadic, and fares can be significantly higher due to the rural location and limited driver pool. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, not a practical solution.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies such as MedStar and Care Ride offer services in the area, but it is crucial to verify insurance coverage and confirm availability well in advance.

The cost of medical transportation can be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with limited incomes. Patients should explore all available options for financial assistance, including Medicaid and local charitable organizations, to mitigate these expenses.

**Healthcare Access and the Breast Cancer Score:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Swanton, Maryland, reflects the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. The score considers the following factors:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance to hospitals and cancer centers offering comprehensive breast cancer services.
* **Transportation Options:** The availability and reliability of various transportation modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.
* **Accessibility:** The ease of access for individuals with disabilities, including ADA-compliant transportation options and accessible facilities.
* **Support Services:** The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, financial assistance programs, and support groups.

Based on these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for Swanton is moderate. While UPMC Western Maryland in Cumberland offers relatively convenient access, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The longer travel times to Morgantown and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

**Moving to Swanton and Healthcare Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Swanton, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. Prospective residents with a history of breast cancer or at high risk should carefully evaluate the transportation options and the availability of healthcare services.

It is recommended to:

* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify local physicians and specialists who provide breast cancer care.
* **Assess transportation options:** Determine the feasibility of relying on personal vehicles, medical transportation, or other available modes of transport.
* **Explore insurance coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for medical transportation and out-of-network services.
* **Connect with support services:** Locate local support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs.

Relocating to Swanton requires careful planning and a proactive approach to healthcare. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the remoteness and limited transportation options necessitate a thorough evaluation of healthcare access. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they receive the care they deserve. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for navigating this complex landscape and making the best decisions for their health and well-being.