20630, Drayden, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20630, Drayden, Maryland is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.85 percent of residents in 20630 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 12.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Drayden, MD (ZIP Code 20630)

Drayden, Maryland, nestled within the embrace of St. Mary's County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the realities of healthcare access. For those considering a move to this tranquil haven, or for current residents seeking to understand their proximity to vital medical resources, understanding the "Lung Cancer Score" is paramount. This score, though not a formal medical metric, serves as a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape surrounding the critical need for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. It considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all crucial elements in determining the ease and speed with which one can reach potentially life-saving care.

The primary concern, when evaluating healthcare access, is the time it takes to reach a facility equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. In this context, the "Lung Cancer Score" weighs heavily on the availability of timely transportation. The score considers the distance and accessibility to hospitals and specialized clinics offering oncology services. This includes facilities with advanced imaging capabilities, such as CT scans and PET scans, and those staffed with experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists. The closer the proximity and the more efficient the transportation options, the higher the "Lung Cancer Score," reflecting a more favorable outlook for prompt and effective care.

For residents of Drayden, the journey to healthcare often begins on local roads. From the heart of Drayden, residents primarily rely on Route 5, also known as Point Lookout Road, to connect with the broader transportation network. This two-lane road, while scenic, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially adding precious minutes to a time-sensitive medical trip. Heading north on Route 5 offers access to Leonardtown, the county seat, and the MedStar St. Mary's Hospital, a vital healthcare hub for the region. The drive time to this hospital, depending on traffic, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes.

Further afield, Route 235, or Three Notch Road, is another crucial artery for those in Drayden. Traveling north on Route 235 provides access to Lexington Park, a more populated area with additional medical facilities, including urgent care centers and specialist practices. The drive time to Lexington Park is roughly 30 to 40 minutes. However, the presence of traffic lights and increased traffic volume along Route 235 can significantly impact travel times, particularly during rush hour.

For those seeking specialized lung cancer treatment, the options expand beyond the immediate vicinity. The University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center in La Plata, Maryland, offers comprehensive oncology services. The journey to La Plata from Drayden involves a combination of Route 5 and Route 301, a major thoroughfare connecting Southern Maryland to the Washington, D.C., area. The drive time to La Plata can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

The most advanced treatment options, including clinical trials and specialized surgical procedures, often necessitate travel to Baltimore or Washington, D.C. These cities host renowned cancer centers, such as the Johns Hopkins Hospital and the National Institutes of Health. The commute to these facilities from Drayden presents a significant time commitment. The drive to Baltimore typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, primarily via Route 5 and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295). The journey to Washington, D.C., also takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, requiring travel on Route 5 and either the Capital Beltway (I-495) or the Suitland Parkway.

Public transportation options in Drayden are limited. The St. Mary's County Transit System (SMCTS) provides bus service within the county. However, the routes are infrequent and primarily serve Leonardtown and Lexington Park, making them less practical for direct trips to specialized cancer centers. The SMCTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the available services. However, the limited frequency and route coverage pose a challenge for those requiring timely access to medical appointments.

For those without personal vehicles, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft offer another transportation alternative. However, their availability in Drayden can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services, therefore, is a crucial consideration when assessing the "Lung Cancer Score."

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide specialized transportation for individuals requiring assistance. These services often cater to patients with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. Several companies operate in Southern Maryland, offering door-to-door service to medical appointments. However, the availability of NEMT services and the associated costs must be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Drayden, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown offers a local option for initial diagnosis and treatment, accessing specialized care often requires longer travel times. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. The geographic isolation of Drayden, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, presents challenges for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

Ultimately, when considering a move to Drayden, or for current residents navigating the healthcare landscape, understanding the "Lung Cancer Score" is essential. It highlights the importance of planning for potential travel times to medical appointments, exploring all available transportation options, and considering the potential impact on the timeliness of care. The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment, influenced by individual circumstances, the severity of the condition, and the evolving healthcare landscape. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and ensure that access to vital lung cancer care is as seamless and efficient as possible, especially when moving to Drayden.