20612, Benedict, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20612, Benedict, Maryland is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 20612 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calverthealth Medical Center with a distance of 5.56 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 20612

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. It’s not just about the treatment itself; it’s about the ability to *access* that treatment. For residents of ZIP Code 20612, encompassing the charming community of Benedict, Maryland, this access is heavily influenced by the available *transportation* options. This write-up, a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, delves into the realities of getting to crucial medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This score aims to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals in 20612, especially those considering *moving to Benedict* or already residing there and needing to navigate the healthcare landscape.

The primary challenge for Benedict residents is its relative isolation. While the town offers a peaceful, rural setting, this tranquility comes at the cost of proximity to comprehensive medical facilities. The closest major hospitals, equipped to handle lung cancer diagnoses and treatment, are located in Waldorf and Annapolis. This geographical reality dictates that *transportation* becomes a critical determinant of healthcare access.

Driving remains the most common mode of transport for most residents. The primary arteries connecting Benedict to the wider world are Maryland Route 231 (Hallowing Point Road) and Maryland Route 2 (Solomons Island Road). Traveling to Waldorf, the location of the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center, typically involves heading north on Route 231, connecting to Maryland Route 5 (Point Lookout Road), and then merging onto US Route 301. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The commute can be significantly longer during peak hours, especially on weekday mornings and evenings. This is a crucial factor, as timely access to appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation therapy is paramount for lung cancer patients.

Alternatively, the drive to Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, a facility known for its oncology services, involves heading north on Route 2, then navigating the complexities of the Annapolis area. The drive time is generally longer, averaging around an hour and fifteen minutes to an hour and a half, again dependent on traffic flow. This extended travel time adds to the physical and emotional burden on patients already grappling with the stresses of their illness.

Public *transportation* options in 20612 are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those without access to a personal vehicle. The local transit authority, the Calvert County Transit, offers bus services, but these routes are primarily designed to serve local needs and are not directly geared toward medical appointments in Waldorf or Annapolis. The routes are infrequent, and the schedules may not align with the timing of medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial, given the potential mobility limitations of lung cancer patients. Confirming the availability of accessible routes and ensuring their suitability for medical appointments is essential.

Public transit routes are limited, and the frequency of service can be a concern. The limited public transit options highlight the importance of exploring alternatives for *transportation* to healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another potential *transportation* solution. However, their availability in 20612 can be inconsistent, and the cost of frequent rides to Waldorf or Annapolis can quickly become a financial strain. The reliability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is also a factor to consider. For those facing the side effects of treatment, the comfort and privacy of a ride-sharing service can be a benefit, but the cost and availability must be carefully weighed.

Medical *transportation* services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, provide a dedicated option. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and MedStar Mobile Healthcare offer non-emergency medical *transportation*. These services often cater to patients with mobility issues or those who require assistance during travel. While these services provide a valuable resource, they can be expensive, and the need to pre-arrange transportation adds another layer of complexity to the already challenging experience of managing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The financial implications of *transportation* are significant. Fuel costs, ride-sharing fares, and medical *transportation* fees can quickly accumulate, adding to the overall burden of healthcare expenses. For individuals with limited financial resources, the cost of *transportation* can become a significant barrier to accessing necessary treatment. This is particularly relevant for those considering *moving to Benedict*, as they must factor in these costs when assessing their healthcare access.

For individuals considering *moving to Benedict* and facing a lung cancer diagnosis, or those already residing there, the Lung Cancer Score for *transportation* access is a mixed bag. While the rural setting offers a peaceful environment, the distance to comprehensive medical facilities poses a significant challenge. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the potential cost and availability issues of ride-sharing services, and the expense of medical *transportation* all contribute to a complex picture.

The Lung Cancer Score for 20612 is therefore impacted by the need for careful planning and a proactive approach to *transportation*. Patients must be prepared to navigate the complexities of scheduling appointments, coordinating *transportation*, and managing the financial implications. This requires a strong support network, including family, friends, and healthcare providers, to ensure that patients can access the treatment and care they need.

In conclusion, while Benedict offers a desirable lifestyle for many, the realities of *transportation* to healthcare, particularly for lung cancer patients, must be carefully considered. The Lung Cancer Score for 20612 is influenced by the geographical isolation and the limitations of existing *transportation* options. Understanding these challenges is crucial for anyone considering *moving to Benedict* or already residing there and facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis. The ability to navigate these *transportation* challenges is a critical factor in ensuring timely access to treatment and ultimately, improving the quality of life for those affected by this disease.