21790, Tuscarora, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21790, Tuscarora, Maryland is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 21790 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 11.56 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 21790 (Tuscarora, Maryland)**

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially when facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis explores transportation options in ZIP Code 21790, Tuscarora, Maryland, to assess the ease of reaching essential medical services. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to provide a comprehensive overview, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, ultimately influencing decisions for residents and those **moving to Tuscarora**.

The primary concern is timely access to oncology appointments, radiation therapy, surgery, and follow-up care. A high score indicates readily available transportation options, minimizing stress and maximizing the chances of successful treatment. Conversely, a low score highlights potential barriers, necessitating proactive planning and support.

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

For many, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation**. The proximity to Frederick, Maryland, a regional healthcare hub, is a significant advantage. Driving to Frederick Health Hospital, a major provider, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey primarily utilizes MD-80 (also known as Green Valley Road) and US-15. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak commuting hours, especially near the US-15 interchange.

Accessing other facilities, like the Johns Hopkins Green Spring Station in Baltimore, requires a longer commute. The drive, approximately 60-90 minutes, involves navigating I-70 East and the Baltimore Beltway (I-695). This longer journey necessitates careful planning, considering potential delays and the need for rest stops.

Driving to Washington, D.C., for specialized care can take upwards of 90 minutes, depending on the specific destination and traffic conditions. This route typically involves I-270 South, known for its heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour.

**Public Transit: The Bus Route and Its Limitations**

Public transit options in 21790 are limited. The Frederick County Transit (The FRED) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve Frederick. Route 70, for instance, connects to Frederick, but its schedule may not align with medical appointment times. This significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The FRED buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features. However, the limited route network and infrequent service pose challenges for those needing reliable and timely **transportation**.

The lack of direct public transit to major medical centers outside of Frederick highlights a significant accessibility gap. Residents relying on public transit may face considerable travel times and the need for multiple transfers, potentially adding to the stress of managing a breast cancer diagnosis.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** solution. Availability in 21790 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could increase costs. While convenient, the reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments requires careful consideration.

Medical transport services, such as Firstat Nursing Services and CareRide, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they can be expensive and require advance booking.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the cost and the need for pre-planning necessitate careful consideration when evaluating **healthcare access**.

**The Breast Cancer Score: An Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 21790 reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Frederick and the availability of ride-sharing services offer some advantages. However, the limited public transit options and the potential challenges of longer commutes to specialized care centers create significant barriers.

The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Moderate to Frederick, longer to Baltimore and D.C., impacted by traffic.
* **Public Transit:** Limited routes, infrequent service, and potential accessibility challenges.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Generally available, but costs and reliability can vary.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but costly and requires advance planning.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To enhance the "Breast Cancer Score" for 21790, several improvements are crucial:

* **Expand Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and coverage of bus routes, particularly those connecting to major medical centers outside of Frederick.
* **Improve ADA Accessibility:** Ensure all public transit options are fully ADA-compliant and accessible.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Explore partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates or subsidized transportation.
* **Increase Awareness of Medical Transport:** Educate residents about available medical transport options and assist with booking.
* **Advocate for Telehealth:** Encourage the use of telehealth services for follow-up appointments and consultations, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

For individuals **moving to Tuscarora** or currently residing there, understanding the **transportation** landscape is crucial. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the need for careful planning and proactive strategies to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare. While the area offers some advantages, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of longer commutes necessitate a comprehensive approach to managing **healthcare access**. By addressing these challenges, the community can improve the quality of life for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis and foster a supportive environment for all residents.