20204, Washington, District of Columbia Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20204, Washington, District of Columbia is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 20204 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medical Faculty Associates, Inc with a distance of 1.32 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 20204

Considering a move to Washington, D.C., and specifically ZIP Code 20204, requires careful consideration of numerous factors. One crucial element is access to healthcare, particularly for serious conditions like lung cancer. This analysis, the “Lung Cancer Score,” examines the accessibility of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment facilities from this ZIP code, focusing on transportation options. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents needing specialized medical care.

ZIP Code 20204, encompassing parts of the Federal Triangle, presents a unique transportation landscape. Its central location offers both advantages and disadvantages when it comes to healthcare access. The proximity to major thoroughfares like the **I-395** and **I-66** provides quick access to medical centers, but the density of the area can lead to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. This congestion directly impacts drive times and, consequently, the Lung Cancer Score.

For those who prefer driving, the primary routes to major hospitals are relatively straightforward. The **I-395** south provides access to MedStar Washington Hospital Center, a comprehensive medical facility with a dedicated oncology department. The drive, typically taking 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic, is a critical factor. Similarly, the **I-66** west offers access to Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington, another option for cancer care. This route, while slightly longer, offers an alternative based on traffic patterns. Navigating the city streets to reach facilities like Johns Hopkins Sibley Memorial Hospital on Massachusetts Avenue, NW, presents a challenge, especially during rush hour.

Public transportation provides another avenue for healthcare access. The **Metro's Blue, Orange, and Silver lines** offer convenient access to several hospitals. The Smithsonian station, a hub for these lines, is within walking distance of ZIP Code 20204. From there, a ride to the Foggy Bottom-GWU station provides access to the George Washington University Hospital. The Metro, while generally reliable, faces potential disruptions due to track work or other unforeseen circumstances. It's essential to consider the potential for delays when planning medical appointments.

Furthermore, the Metro system is largely ADA-accessible, with elevators and ramps at most stations. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor that directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. However, the walk from the Metro station to a hospital can be challenging for some, necessitating careful planning and perhaps the use of a wheelchair or other mobility aids.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative, especially for those who prefer not to drive or navigate public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Moreover, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further increase the expense, impacting the overall accessibility of healthcare.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, provide another layer of support. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges or other medical needs. While these services can be invaluable, they typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of specialized cancer care facilities. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center, located in Bethesda, Maryland, is a world-renowned research hospital with a comprehensive cancer program. While located outside of ZIP Code 20204, the NIH Clinical Center is accessible via the Metro's Red Line, providing a relatively straightforward, though potentially lengthy, commute. The commute time, however, is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The proximity of the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda offers another option. This facility, while primarily serving military personnel and their families, also provides care to the general public in certain circumstances. Accessing Walter Reed involves a combination of driving and Metro, adding another layer of complexity to the transportation equation.

The Lung Cancer Score is not just about distance; it's about the reliability and affordability of transportation. A long drive time, unreliable public transit, or expensive ride-sharing options can all negatively impact the score. The score also considers the availability of support services, such as parking facilities, shuttle services, and patient navigators, which can ease the burden of accessing healthcare.

For individuals considering moving to Washington, D.C., and specifically ZIP Code 20204, this analysis provides a critical overview of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The Lung Cancer Score is a tool for making informed decisions, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of this central location. The goal is to ensure that residents have the information necessary to navigate the complexities of healthcare access and receive timely and effective treatment.

This analysis underscores the importance of careful planning. Residents of 20204 must consider their individual needs, including mobility limitations, financial constraints, and preferred modes of transportation. They should research the specific hospitals and clinics they intend to use, assessing their transportation options and the associated costs.

The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic metric, subject to change based on factors such as traffic patterns, public transit schedules, and the availability of ride-sharing services. It is therefore essential to stay informed and adapt to changing conditions. The goal is to ensure that residents of ZIP Code 20204 can access the healthcare they need, when they need it, and with minimal disruption to their lives.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score reflects the reality of healthcare access in this unique urban environment. It highlights the challenges and opportunities, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The score provides a framework for understanding the complexities of transportation and its impact on accessing critical medical care, especially for those battling lung cancer.