21702, Frederick, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21702, Frederick, Maryland is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.26 percent of residents in 21702 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 2.38 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21702)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, is a significant one. For those contemplating a move to Frederick, Maryland (ZIP Code 21702), and particularly those concerned about breast cancer care, understanding the local transportation landscape is crucial. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area, evaluating the ease with which residents can access vital diagnostic and treatment services. The score is not a numerical value, but rather a comprehensive overview of the transportation options available, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all critical components of healthcare access.

Frederick, a vibrant city nestled in the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains, offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. However, its suburban and semi-rural nature influences how residents access healthcare, especially for specialized services like breast cancer care. The primary concern is the ability to reach facilities offering mammograms, biopsies, surgical interventions, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The central artery through Frederick is Interstate 70 (I-70), connecting the city to Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Access to breast cancer services often necessitates travel, and I-70 is the lifeline. Driving times to key healthcare providers are significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak commuting hours.

Frederick Health Hospital, the primary healthcare provider within 21702, offers a range of breast cancer services. From most locations within the ZIP code, the drive is typically under 15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. However, traffic on major roads like Route 15 (the Frederick Freeway) and Route 40 can create delays.

For specialized care, such as advanced imaging or radiation therapy, residents might need to travel to facilities in nearby cities like Baltimore or Washington, D.C. This extends drive times considerably. A trip to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, for instance, could take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic on I-70 and the Baltimore Beltway (I-695). Similarly, reaching facilities in the D.C. area, using I-270, could take an hour or more.

The availability of parking at these facilities is another factor to consider. While Frederick Health Hospital offers ample parking, facilities in larger cities may have limited parking, potentially adding to the stress of a medical appointment. The convenience of driving, however, is undeniable, especially for those undergoing treatment that may leave them fatigued or with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Frederick, while present, is not a robust solution for healthcare access, particularly for those facing the challenges of breast cancer treatment. The Frederick County Transit system (TransIT) operates several bus routes, but their coverage is limited, and their schedules may not align with the needs of patients requiring frequent appointments.

Several TransIT routes serve the 21702 ZIP code, including routes that connect to the Frederick Health Hospital. However, the frequency of these routes, especially on weekends and evenings, can be a significant barrier. Furthermore, the routes may not directly serve all the healthcare facilities a patient might need to visit.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. All TransIT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the reliance on public transit, with its potential for delays and transfers, can be a considerable burden for patients undergoing treatment.

The MARC (Maryland Area Regional Commuter) train system offers another transportation option, with a station in Frederick. However, the MARC train primarily serves commuters traveling to Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. While it could be an option for accessing healthcare in those cities, it would require a combination of bus, ride-share, or taxi to reach the final destination, adding complexity to the journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a more flexible transportation option, particularly for those who do not drive or cannot drive due to their condition. These services are readily available in Frederick, and the ability to schedule rides at any time is a significant advantage. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable alternative. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Several medical transportation providers operate in the Frederick area, including companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and First Transit. However, the availability of these services can vary, and advance booking is often required.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" in Context: Moving to Frederick**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 21702, therefore, is a mixed bag. While Frederick offers a good base of local healthcare services, including Frederick Health Hospital, the reliance on personal vehicles is high. Driving times to specialized facilities in larger cities can be significant, particularly during peak traffic. Public transportation is limited, and ride-sharing and medical transportation, while available, come with their own set of considerations, including cost and availability.

For individuals considering moving to Frederick, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and the proximity of healthcare facilities. Those who can drive and have access to a reliable vehicle will find healthcare access more manageable. Those who rely on public transit or other forms of transportation will need to carefully plan their journeys and consider the potential for delays and added costs.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 21702 highlights the importance of proactive planning. Researching the location of healthcare providers, understanding the available transportation options, and factoring in the potential for delays are all essential steps in ensuring access to timely and effective breast cancer care. For prospective residents, the convenience of living near Frederick Health Hospital is a significant advantage, but the need for careful consideration of transportation options for specialized care remains paramount. The decision to move to Frederick should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation challenges and the resources available to overcome them, ensuring a smooth transition and access to the healthcare needed.