21704, Frederick, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21704, Frederick, Maryland is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.14 percent of residents in 21704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 4.06 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21704)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates accessible, reliable transportation, a crucial element in the overall experience. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within ZIP code 21704, the heart of Frederick, Maryland, to assess its impact on healthcare access, specifically for those navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, painting a picture of the practical challenges and potential solutions for individuals seeking timely and consistent care. If you are considering moving to Frederick, this information will provide you with valuable insights.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a formal medical metric, but a composite assessment of transportation factors that influence a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent breast cancer care. It considers the ease of reaching key medical facilities, the availability of alternative transportation options, and the potential barriers faced by individuals with mobility limitations. The higher the score, the more readily accessible healthcare becomes, reducing stress and promoting better health outcomes.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many residents of 21704, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this option hinges on the accessibility of major roadways. Frederick's central location offers convenient access to several important highways. Interstate 70 (I-70) provides a direct east-west route, connecting Frederick to Baltimore and points west, like Hagerstown. Interstate 270 (I-270) serves as a vital link to Washington, D.C., and the surrounding suburbs.

Traveling to Frederick Health Hospital, the primary medical center in the area, is generally straightforward. From most locations within 21704, the drive is relatively short, often taking less than 15 minutes via roads like West Patrick Street or Rosemont Avenue. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Commuting on I-70 or I-270, especially during rush hour, can easily double or triple the expected drive time, adding stress and potentially delaying appointments.

For those requiring specialized care or second opinions, access to facilities in Baltimore or Washington, D.C., becomes essential. The drive to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, a renowned cancer center, typically takes around an hour via I-70 East and I-695. Similarly, reaching the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, usually involves a 45-minute to one-hour drive via I-270 South. These longer journeys underscore the importance of reliable transportation and the potential challenges for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation in Frederick, while present, presents limitations for those relying on it for healthcare access. The Frederick County Transit System (FCT) operates a network of bus routes within the city and surrounding areas. Route 80, for example, serves the downtown area and provides access to Frederick Health Hospital. Route 70 offers a connection to the MARC train station, enabling access to Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

However, the FCT system has constraints. Service frequency can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends. This can create significant challenges for patients needing to attend early morning appointments or return home after late-day treatments. Furthermore, the geographical coverage of the FCT is not comprehensive, leaving some residents, particularly those living in more rural areas of 21704, without convenient access to bus stops.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial aspect of public transit. The FCT strives to meet ADA standards by providing accessible buses with ramps or lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on a fixed-route system can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations who may require door-to-door service.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a flexible alternative to public transit and personal vehicles. Their on-demand nature can be particularly valuable for patients who need transportation at irregular hours or have difficulty driving. However, the availability of these services in Frederick can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas. Surge pricing, common during periods of high demand, can also create a financial burden for patients.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies, cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and trained drivers who can assist patients with mobility challenges. Companies like Logisticare and ModivCare (formerly LogistiCare) are often contracted by insurance providers to offer NEMT services. The availability and coverage of these services vary depending on the patient's insurance plan and eligibility criteria.

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

Evaluating the transportation landscape in 21704 reveals a mixed picture. While Frederick's location offers convenient access to major highways, traffic congestion and the need for longer drives to specialized facilities pose challenges. Public transit provides a limited but accessible option, while ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer valuable alternatives, albeit with their own limitations.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 21704 would reflect these complexities. It would acknowledge the relative ease of reaching local medical facilities but also account for the potential difficulties in accessing specialized care in Baltimore or Washington, D.C. It would recognize the limitations of public transit and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

For individuals considering moving to Frederick, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. It's essential to assess your individual needs, considering factors like mobility limitations, treatment schedules, and financial resources. Researching the availability of medical transportation services, familiarizing yourself with the FCT bus routes, and factoring in potential travel times are essential steps in ensuring seamless access to healthcare.

Ultimately, improving healthcare access in 21704 requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for expanded public transit service, supporting the availability of affordable ride-sharing options, and ensuring the accessibility and affordability of medical transportation services. By addressing these challenges, we can create a more supportive environment for individuals navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment and other healthcare needs. The goal is to ensure that transportation is not a barrier to care, but a facilitator of health and well-being.