20615, Broomes Island, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20615, Broomes Island, Maryland is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.61 percent of residents in 20615 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 9.65 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 20615

The quest for optimal healthcare access, especially for a disease as formidable as lung cancer, demands a meticulous understanding of local transportation options. This write-up provides a comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” assessment for residents of ZIP Code 20615, encompassing Broomes Island and its surrounding areas. Our focus is on transportation, meticulously evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services to gauge the ease with which individuals can reach crucial medical appointments. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge to navigate the healthcare landscape, ultimately impacting their quality of life and, potentially, their survival.

The primary consideration for residents of 20615 is the relatively rural nature of the area. This geographic reality significantly influences transportation choices. Driving is often the default, and the condition of the roads, the distance to healthcare facilities, and traffic patterns become paramount. The “Lung Cancer Score” considers these factors, acknowledging that efficient transportation is not just a convenience but a vital lifeline for those undergoing treatment.

**Driving: The Primary Route**

For most residents, the car is king. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Route 231 (Broomes Island Road) and Route 4 (Patuxent River Naval Air Station Road). Traveling north on Route 231, you can connect with Route 4, which then leads towards Prince Frederick and Waldorf, the major hubs for medical facilities.

The drive to CalvertHealth Medical Center in Prince Frederick, a key healthcare provider, typically takes between 25 and 40 minutes, depending on traffic. During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, traffic congestion can extend this commute. The condition of Route 4 is generally good, but occasional construction or accidents can cause delays. The “Lung Cancer Score” will deduct points for extended drive times, recognizing the physical toll of long commutes on patients undergoing treatment.

Alternatively, heading north on Route 4, you can reach the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center in La Plata, a drive of approximately 45 to 60 minutes. This route involves navigating a more complex road network and potentially encountering heavier traffic, particularly around Waldorf. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays, which are factored into the “Lung Cancer Score.”

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 20615 are limited. The Calvert County Transit System offers bus services, but these are primarily designed for local travel and may not directly serve the major medical centers. Routes and schedules should be meticulously researched. The system's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is an important consideration, as it offers services for those with mobility limitations.

Public transit is not a viable option for those with lung cancer. The “Lung Cancer Score” will reflect the limited availability of public transportation, recognizing that reliance on this mode can be challenging for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other debilitating symptoms.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The “Lung Cancer Score” will consider the reliability and affordability of these services.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT).

These services can be invaluable for patients who are unable to drive or who require assistance. The “Lung Cancer Score” will credit the availability and accessibility of medical transport options, recognizing their crucial role in ensuring healthcare access.

**Accessibility Considerations and The “Lung Cancer Score” Methodology**

The “Lung Cancer Score” methodology is designed to provide a nuanced assessment of healthcare access. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average time to reach major medical facilities, including CalvertHealth Medical Center and the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center. Points are deducted for longer commute times.
* **Traffic Conditions:** The impact of traffic congestion on commute times, particularly during peak hours.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The availability and accessibility of public transportation options, including ADA-compliant services. Points are deducted for limited options.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Services:** The availability and accessibility of medical transport services. Points are awarded for comprehensive medical transport options.
* **Road Conditions:** The quality and maintenance of the primary roads.
* **Proximity to Urgent Care and Specialty Clinics:** This is not a primary focus, but accessibility to these is considered.

The “Lung Cancer Score” will be presented as a numerical rating, with a higher score indicating better healthcare access. This score is intended to be a practical tool for residents of 20615, particularly those considering moving to Broomes Island or seeking healthcare in the area.

**The Impact of Healthcare Access**

Healthcare access is not merely about reaching a doctor's appointment. It encompasses the ability to attend regular check-ups, receive timely treatments, and access supportive care services. For lung cancer patients, this translates into improved outcomes, reduced suffering, and an enhanced quality of life.

The “Lung Cancer Score” aims to highlight the importance of transportation in achieving these goals. By providing a clear assessment of the available options, it empowers residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and plan for their transportation needs. This is particularly crucial for those considering moving to Broomes Island, as it allows them to evaluate the practicality of accessing healthcare services before making a relocation decision.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The “Lung Cancer Score” is a dynamic assessment, and its value lies in its ability to inform and empower. Residents of 20615 should actively research their transportation options, including driving routes, public transit schedules, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

This knowledge is essential for navigating the healthcare landscape and ensuring that individuals can access the care they need. The “Lung Cancer Score” serves as a starting point, a call to action for residents to prioritize their health and proactively address the challenges of transportation. By understanding the intricacies of healthcare access in 20615, residents can take control of their health journey and improve their chances of successful outcomes.