20620, Callaway, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20620, Callaway, Maryland is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.36 percent of residents in 20620 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 7.46 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Callaway, MD (ZIP Code 20620)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of salt and the promise of the Chesapeake Bay in Callaway, Maryland. Nestled in St. Mary's County, this community offers a slower pace of life, a haven for those seeking respite. However, when the specter of lung cancer looms, the tranquility can shatter. This report, a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 20620, analyzes the critical element of **transportation** to **healthcare access**, a vital factor in diagnosis, treatment, and survival. We will explore the challenges and opportunities facing residents of Callaway when they need to reach medical facilities, particularly those specializing in lung cancer care. This information is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Callaway**, or already residing there, and facing a potential diagnosis.

The primary concern in Callaway, as in many rural areas, is the distance to specialized medical centers. The nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in Leonardtown, California, and Lexington Park, each presenting unique **transportation** hurdles. The journey is not merely about miles; it’s about time, reliability, and the physical and emotional toll on a patient.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** in Callaway. From the heart of the ZIP code, the primary route to Leonardtown Regional Hospital, a vital healthcare hub, is via Point Lookout Road (Route 5). The drive is typically 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The route is generally well-maintained, offering a relatively smooth passage. However, during peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, traffic congestion can extend the travel time. This delay can be critical for appointments, especially those involving chemotherapy or radiation therapy, where precise scheduling is essential.

For those heading to MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Lexington Park, the journey involves a longer drive, approximately 20-25 minutes. This route primarily utilizes Route 5, then turns onto Three Notch Road (Route 235). This stretch is known for its higher speed limits, but also for its potential for accidents, especially during inclement weather. The longer travel time necessitates careful planning and consideration for potential delays, impacting the patient’s ability to adhere to treatment schedules.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Callaway. The St. Mary's County Transit System (SMCTS) offers bus services, but routes are infrequent and may not directly connect Callaway to the major medical centers. Furthermore, the routes often involve multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and adding to the physical burden on a patient. The SMCTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited service frequency and route coverage make it an unreliable option for regular medical appointments. This lack of readily available public **transportation** significantly hinders **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability can fluctuate. Availability depends on driver density, which can be lower in rural areas. Surge pricing, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can also make these services expensive, posing a financial barrier to **healthcare access**. The unpredictability of ride-sharing, especially for appointments with strict timeframes, adds another layer of complexity to the patient's journey.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) providers, are available for patients requiring assistance. Ambulance services are reserved for emergencies, while NEMT offers scheduled rides for medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly, depending on insurance coverage. The availability of NEMT services can be limited, requiring advanced planning and potentially impacting appointment scheduling flexibility.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges extends beyond the physical journey. The stress of navigating these obstacles can exacerbate a patient's anxiety and fatigue, impacting their overall well-being. The financial burden associated with **transportation**, including gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, and NEMT services, can also create a significant strain on patients and their families, potentially delaying or disrupting treatment.

For individuals considering **moving to Callaway**, or for existing residents, understanding these **transportation** limitations is paramount. It is essential to assess personal circumstances, including driving ability, access to a vehicle, and financial resources, to determine the feasibility of accessing necessary medical care.

The proximity to healthcare facilities, while relatively close in terms of miles, is significantly impacted by the limitations in **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public **transportation**, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create challenges for patients seeking timely and consistent medical care.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Callaway, MD, demands proactive planning and a deep understanding of the available resources. Patients need to explore all available options, including carpooling with friends or family, coordinating with local support groups, and exploring financial assistance programs to alleviate the burden of **transportation** costs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Callaway, MD, highlights the critical need for improved **transportation** solutions to enhance **healthcare access**. Addressing these challenges through increased public **transportation** options, promoting ride-sharing programs, and expanding the availability of affordable NEMT services would significantly improve the quality of life for residents battling lung cancer. This information is vital for anyone considering **moving to Callaway**, and underscores the importance of comprehensive planning when facing a serious health diagnosis.