20617, Bryantown, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20617, Bryantown, Maryland is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.72 percent of residents in 20617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Charles Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.99 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Bryantown (ZIP Code 20617)

Considering a move to the charming community of Bryantown, Maryland, nestled within ZIP code 20617? This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a hypothetical assessment of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options for individuals needing lung cancer care. This score isn't a definitive medical judgment but rather a practical evaluation of how easily one can reach crucial medical appointments, factoring in the challenges of transportation in the area. This is vital, as timely access to healthcare is paramount in the fight against lung cancer.

The score considers factors like drive times to major hospitals, public transportation availability, and the presence of ride-sharing services. It aims to illuminate the realities of **transportation** logistics for residents, especially those undergoing treatment. The goal is to help prospective residents understand the **healthcare access** landscape and make informed decisions, particularly if they are **moving to Bryantown**.

**The Score's Components:**

The Lung Cancer Score is constructed from several key elements. First, we assess the drive times to major medical facilities offering comprehensive lung cancer care. Then, we analyze the accessibility of public transportation, including bus routes and their ADA compliance. Following this, we investigate the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. Finally, we explore medical transportation options specifically designed for patients. Each component contributes to the overall score, reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical appointments.

**Drive Times: The Highway to Healing**

For residents of 20617, the closest major hospital with specialized lung cancer treatment is likely the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center in La Plata, Maryland. The drive to this facility, typically around 15-20 minutes, is primarily via MD-5 (Leonardtown Road). Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend this commute, so factoring in extra time is always wise.

Another significant option is MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, Maryland. This drive, which involves navigating MD-5 and MD-235 (Three Notch Road), usually takes about 30-40 minutes. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, particularly for appointments requiring precise arrival times, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Traveling further afield to Washington, D.C., for specialized treatment at facilities like MedStar Georgetown University Hospital or the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, presents a more substantial challenge. The journey to D.C. involves MD-5 to US-301, and then onto the Beltway (I-495). This trip can easily take an hour or more, depending on traffic. The Baltimore route involves MD-5 to US-301, then I-97 to I-695. This could take over two hours. These longer commutes underscore the importance of considering the physical and emotional toll of travel when planning treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public **transportation** options in the Bryantown area are limited. The primary provider is the Charles County Transportation System (CCTS). The CCTS operates several bus routes, but their frequency and coverage in the 20617 ZIP code are not extensive. Bus Route 20, which connects Waldorf to Charlotte Hall, might offer some connectivity, but its schedule might not align well with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the CCTS website indicates that all buses are ADA accessible. However, the limited route network and potential for long wait times can pose significant challenges for patients undergoing treatment, especially those with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally available in the Bryantown area. However, their reliability and cost can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in periods of high demand. Patients should factor in potential surge pricing and the need to schedule rides in advance, particularly for appointments requiring precise arrival times.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by medical transport companies, can be invaluable for patients who cannot drive or have difficulty using public **transportation**. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be costly, and their availability might be limited, so advance booking is crucial. Researching reputable medical transport providers in the area, such as CareRide or MediRide, is essential.

**The Score's Implications: A Realistic Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for 20617 would likely reflect the challenges of accessing healthcare. While the proximity to the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center offers some convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** raise concerns. The longer commute times to more specialized facilities in D.C. or Baltimore further complicate the situation.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** options provides some relief, but their cost and reliability require careful consideration. The overall score suggests that residents of 20617, especially those undergoing lung cancer treatment, must carefully plan their **transportation** needs. This includes allowing ample travel time, exploring all available options, and considering the financial implications of each.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it's also about the ability to reach them. For those **moving to Bryantown**, understanding the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** is crucial. While the area offers a sense of community and proximity to essential services, the limitations of public **transportation** and the potential for long commutes necessitate careful planning and proactive measures.

Patients and their families should actively research all available options, from personal vehicles to ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers. They should also explore support networks and community resources that can provide assistance with **transportation** and other needs. By understanding the challenges and preparing accordingly, residents of 20617 can navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.