21770, Monrovia, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21770, Monrovia, Maryland is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.81 percent of residents in 21770 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meritus Medical Center with a distance of 28.29 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 21770

The quest for timely and effective breast cancer care is a journey, and in the ZIP code 21770, encompassing Monrovia, Maryland, that journey's ease is significantly influenced by the local transportation landscape. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, examines the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare within this specific area, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering a move to Monrovia, or already residing there, and seeking optimal healthcare access.

The primary artery for vehicular transportation in 21770 is Interstate 70 (I-70), a major east-west thoroughfare. Driving east on I-70 offers direct access to Frederick, where the Frederick Health Hospital, a key healthcare provider, is located. The drive, typically covering about 10 miles, can be completed in approximately 15 to 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, rush hour, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this commute.

Alternatively, traveling west on I-70 provides access to Howard County and the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, including hospitals like Howard County General Hospital in Columbia. This journey is considerably longer, roughly 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic, and involves navigating a more complex road network.

Local roads like Maryland Route 75 (Green Valley Road) and Maryland Route 26 (Liberty Road) offer alternative routes, albeit with slower speeds and potential for traffic congestion. These roads are crucial for accessing local medical offices and clinics, providing more immediate healthcare access for routine checkups and follow-up appointments. However, these routes are less suitable for emergency situations requiring rapid transport to a major hospital.

Public transportation options in 21770 are limited. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates a bus service, but its frequency and coverage in the area are restricted. The primary bus route serving Monrovia is the Route 51, which connects Frederick to the Shady Grove Metro Station in Montgomery County. The Route 51 offers some healthcare access, connecting to the Frederick Health Hospital and the Shady Grove Metro Station, providing access to hospitals and medical facilities in Montgomery County and Washington, D.C.

However, the Route 51's schedule can be infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings, potentially creating challenges for patients needing timely access to appointments or treatments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on the buses is crucial for patients with mobility impairments, and this should be verified before relying on this service.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 21770, providing on-demand transportation options. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who do not own a vehicle or who are unable to drive due to medical conditions. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, and the availability of drivers, especially during peak hours or in more remote areas, may be limited.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients' needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer these services. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit and may require advance booking.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 21770 is therefore a nuanced assessment. While the proximity to I-70 provides relatively easy access to Frederick Health Hospital, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges. Individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to a vehicle may face significant hurdles in accessing timely healthcare.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized breast cancer care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, may necessitate travel to hospitals in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, extending commute times and increasing the reliance on alternative transportation options.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the following factors: the proximity to major hospitals offering breast cancer services, the availability and reliability of public transit, the accessibility and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, and the impact of traffic congestion on commute times.

For those considering moving to Monrovia, this analysis highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. Individuals with existing medical conditions or those who anticipate needing frequent medical care should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities and consider the availability of reliable transportation options.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static metric but rather a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and individual needs. Regular updates and re-evaluations are essential to ensure that residents of 21770 have the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare access.

The lack of extensive public transportation, and the reliance on personal vehicles, influences the overall "Breast Cancer Score" in 21770. While ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer alternatives, their cost and availability can pose challenges for some residents.

The availability of local medical offices and clinics, accessible via local roads like Route 75 and Route 26, is a positive factor, providing more immediate healthcare access for routine checkups and follow-up appointments. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential for traffic congestion on these routes can impact the ease of access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a single number but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the factors that influence healthcare access. For residents of 21770, understanding these factors is crucial for navigating the healthcare system and ensuring timely and effective breast cancer care.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 21770 reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Frederick Health Hospital via I-70 offers reasonable access, but the limitations of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for traffic congestion create challenges. Individuals considering moving to Monrovia or already residing there should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative options, but their cost and availability must be considered. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare access landscape in 21770 and making informed decisions about healthcare needs.