21767, Maugansville, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21767, Maugansville, Maryland is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.97 percent of residents in 21767 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meritus Medical Center with a distance of 6.33 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Maugansville (ZIP Code 21767)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as breast cancer, is a complex one. It's not just about the medical expertise available, but also the ease with which one can access it. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 21767, Maugansville, Maryland, aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" by evaluating the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare, primarily focusing on transportation options. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the practical challenges and opportunities for those facing this illness in the area. For those considering moving to Maugansville, this information is crucial.

Maugansville, a charming community nestled in Washington County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to larger towns. However, this balance can influence healthcare access. The availability of transportation options is a key factor in determining the overall quality of life for residents, especially those needing regular medical appointments.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary routes for accessing healthcare from Maugansville are dominated by the familiar arteries of the American road system. The most direct route to major medical facilities in Hagerstown, the county seat, is typically via **MD-40 (National Pike)**. This road provides relatively quick access to the city, with drive times varying depending on traffic. During peak hours, expect travel times to increase, potentially adding significant stress to an already challenging situation.

Further afield, accessing specialized care may necessitate journeys on **I-81** and **I-70**. Interstate 81 provides north-south access, while I-70 offers east-west connections. The commute to Baltimore, for instance, where specialized cancer centers are located, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for patients undergoing treatment, adding fatigue and logistical complexities to their already demanding schedules.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

Public transportation options in the 21767 ZIP code are limited. The primary provider is the **Washington County Transit (WCT)** system. WCT offers fixed-route bus services, but the frequency and coverage in Maugansville and surrounding areas are limited. The routes typically focus on connecting residential areas to commercial centers and key destinations like Hagerstown.

For individuals requiring more direct access to medical facilities, the availability of accessible transportation is paramount. The WCT system is designed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), offering accessible buses equipped with ramps or lifts. However, the limited route coverage and frequency can still pose a challenge for those with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may affect their ability to travel.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in the Hagerstown area and can offer a more flexible transportation option. However, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas, can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for patients who require assistance. These services often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several providers operate in the region, including **CareRide**, **First Transit**, and local ambulance services. These services are generally pre-booked and can be a crucial resource for patients who are unable to drive or use public transit. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, level of care required, and the specific provider.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

Evaluating the transportation landscape in Maugansville and its impact on healthcare access allows us to construct a "Breast Cancer Score." This score is not a single number but a composite assessment that considers several factors.

* **Drive Time:** The proximity to Hagerstown is a positive factor, offering relatively quick access to local medical facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for increased travel times during peak hours and to distant specialized centers, like those in Baltimore, are negative considerations.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transit options, while ADA-compliant, present a significant challenge for many patients. The infrequency of routes and limited coverage in Maugansville negatively impact the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability of ride-sharing services provides a degree of flexibility, but the cost and potential for inconsistent availability, particularly in rural areas, are negative factors.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability of medical transport services is a crucial positive factor, providing specialized assistance for patients. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some.

**Overall Assessment:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for transportation access in Maugansville, ZIP code 21767, is moderate. While the proximity to Hagerstown offers some convenience, the limitations of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport, create challenges. For those considering moving to Maugansville, this assessment is essential.

**Recommendations:**

* **Expand Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency and coverage of public transit routes, especially those connecting Maugansville to medical facilities, would significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could reduce the financial burden on patients.
* **Increase Awareness of Medical Transport:** Providing information about available medical transport services and assisting patients in navigating the application process could improve access for those in need.
* **Community Support:** Fostering community-based transportation programs, such as volunteer driver services, could provide additional support for patients.

Ultimately, the journey through breast cancer is a complex one. By understanding the challenges and opportunities of healthcare access, particularly in terms of transportation, we can work towards creating a more supportive environment for those facing this illness in Maugansville and beyond. This analysis underscores the critical importance of accessible transportation in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their location, can receive the care they need.