21901, North East, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21901, North East, Maryland is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.70 percent of residents in 21901 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Harford Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.38 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21901**

The journey to healthcare, especially for something as critical as breast cancer screening and treatment, is a complex equation. It's not just about the availability of medical professionals; it's also about the ease and speed of reaching them. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 21901 (Elkton, Maryland), provides a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare, considering various transportation options. This is vital information for anyone living in or *moving to North East* Maryland, particularly those concerned about their *healthcare access*.

Elkton, nestled in Cecil County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The town’s proximity to major highways offers both advantages and challenges. The score is calculated by assessing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the *transportation* landscape and its impact on accessing crucial breast cancer care.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for vehicular *transportation* in and out of 21901 are Interstate 95 (I-95), Route 40 (Pulaski Highway), and Route 279 (Elkton Road). These highways are crucial for reaching major medical centers.

Driving to Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware, a major regional healthcare provider, is a common destination. The drive, primarily via I-95 North, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this time, potentially adding another 15-20 minutes. This is a critical factor, especially for individuals undergoing treatment or needing frequent appointments.

Another important destination is Union Hospital in Elkton itself, providing local care and services. Drive times to Union Hospital are generally short, usually under 10 minutes, making it a convenient option for many residents. This proximity is a significant positive factor in the overall score.

For more specialized care, patients might need to travel further. The drive to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, can take approximately an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic conditions on I-95 South. This longer drive time, while manageable, adds to the stress and burden for patients.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Public *transportation* in Elkton and the surrounding areas is primarily provided by Cecil Transit. However, the network is limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Bus routes are available, but they may not directly serve all medical facilities or operate with high frequency.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. Ensuring that public transit options are fully accessible is vital for equitable *healthcare access*. Information on specific route numbers and schedules is available on the Cecil Transit website. However, the reliance on bus *transportation* for accessing specialized breast cancer care might not be ideal due to potential delays and limited service hours.

The lack of extensive public transit options presents a challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative *transportation* solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Elkton area, offering another avenue for *transportation* to medical appointments. While convenient, the cost can be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by private companies, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and may accommodate individuals with mobility issues. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services are significant factors in assessing the overall *healthcare access* score. These options can bridge the gap for individuals who cannot drive or who lack access to public transit.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 21901 considers all these factors. It is not a single number but a composite assessment. The score reflects the drive times to major medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical *transportation*, and the accessibility of services for individuals with disabilities.

A high score indicates excellent *healthcare access*, characterized by short drive times, readily available public transit, and affordable ride-sharing and medical *transportation* options. A lower score suggests challenges, such as longer drive times, limited public transit, and potentially high costs for alternative *transportation*.

The score is also influenced by the proximity of local healthcare providers, such as Union Hospital, which significantly improves the overall accessibility for residents.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For individuals considering *moving to North East* Maryland, specifically to 21901, this analysis provides valuable insights. Those with a history of breast cancer or a heightened risk should carefully evaluate the *transportation* options and the potential impact on their *healthcare access*.

* **Consider the proximity of local healthcare providers:** The presence of Union Hospital in Elkton is a significant advantage.
* **Assess your *transportation* needs:** If you rely on public transit, research the Cecil Transit routes and schedules.
* **Factor in traffic patterns:** Rush hour on I-95 can significantly extend drive times.
* **Explore ride-sharing and medical *transportation* options:** Research the costs and availability of these services.
* **Prioritize preventive care:** Regular screenings are crucial, and *healthcare access* is essential for this.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a dynamic assessment. As *transportation* infrastructure and healthcare services evolve, the score will need to be updated. This analysis serves as a starting point, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. By understanding the *transportation* landscape, residents of 21901 can proactively manage their *healthcare access* and prioritize their well-being.