20653, Lexington Park, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20653, Lexington Park, Maryland is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.20 percent of residents in 20653 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 9.95 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 20653

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare needs, demands a thorough understanding of the available resources. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 20653 (Lexington Park, Maryland), focusing on transportation and healthcare access for individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer. This score is not a definitive medical assessment, but rather a practical guide to navigating the complexities of accessing necessary care within this specific geographic area.

The core of the score hinges on the critical elements of transportation, recognizing that timely and reliable access to healthcare is paramount in the fight against lung cancer. We’ll explore the various modes of transportation available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, each impacting the overall score. The proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities, particularly those specializing in pulmonology, oncology, and radiation therapy, are also crucial factors.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Lexington Park are Route 235 (Three Notch Road) and Route 4 (Patuxent Beach Road). These roads are vital arteries connecting residents to essential services, including healthcare facilities. Drive times, however, are subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. A drive to MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, the closest major hospital, typically takes 15-25 minutes via Route 235. This travel time can increase significantly during rush hour, potentially impacting the timely delivery of care.

For specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or advanced oncology services, patients may need to travel to larger hospitals in Washington, D.C., or Baltimore. This necessitates longer commutes, often exceeding an hour or more, adding to the logistical challenges. The journey to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland, for instance, involves navigating the Capital Beltway (I-495) and can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, a trip to the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore requires navigating the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) and can take over an hour.

**Public Transportation:**

The St. Mary's County Transit System (SMCTS) provides public transportation within the county. Several routes serve Lexington Park, offering a limited but valuable option for those without personal vehicles. However, the frequency of service and the routes covered may not always align with the specific needs of lung cancer patients. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and ramps, are available on SMCTS buses, ensuring ADA compliance.

The primary bus route of interest to residents of 20653 is Route 1, which runs along Route 235, providing access to Lexington Park, California, and Leonardtown. Route 2 offers service to the Patuxent River Naval Air Station (NAS Patuxent River), which may be relevant for some residents. The SMCTS website provides detailed route maps and schedules. The availability of public transportation can significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who are unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Lexington Park, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as Care Ride and LogistiCare, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. They can be particularly beneficial for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments. The cost of medical transport is often covered by insurance or other programs, making it a more affordable option for many patients.

**Healthcare Access and Facilities:**

MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown serves as the primary healthcare provider for residents of 20653. The hospital offers a range of services, including pulmonology and oncology departments. However, the availability of specialized lung cancer treatments, such as advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, may be limited.

For more specialized care, patients may need to travel to hospitals in larger metropolitan areas, such as Washington, D.C., or Baltimore. The proximity of these facilities to major roadways and public transportation hubs can influence the Lung Cancer Score. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, at these facilities is also a crucial factor.

**The Lung Cancer Score Components:**

The Lung Cancer Score for 20653 is a composite of several factors, each weighted based on its importance to healthcare access:

* **Driving Time to Primary Care:** This considers the average drive time to a primary care physician, which is typically 10-15 minutes.
* **Driving Time to Specialized Care:** The time to MedStar St. Mary's Hospital is weighted heavily, with the drive time to larger hospitals factored in.
* **Public Transportation Accessibility:** The availability of bus routes, frequency of service, and ADA compliance are considered.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The presence of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers is assessed.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity and Specialization:** The proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized lung cancer treatments, and the presence of support services are evaluated.

**Moving to Lexington Park with Lung Cancer:**

Individuals considering a move to Lexington Park with a lung cancer diagnosis should carefully evaluate the transportation options and healthcare resources available. While the area offers a relatively low cost of living and access to a major hospital, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for long commutes to specialized care are significant considerations. The availability of public transportation and ride-sharing services provides alternative options, but their limitations must be acknowledged.

The Lung Cancer Score for 20653 will fluctuate depending on individual circumstances. For example, a person with a driver's license and access to a car will likely have a higher score than someone reliant on public transportation. Similarly, individuals with a need for specialized treatments unavailable locally will have a lower score due to the longer commute times.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Lexington Park with lung cancer is a personal one. It requires careful consideration of the transportation options, healthcare resources, and individual needs. This "Lung Cancer Score" write-up aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the factors involved, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and quality of life.