20657, Lusby, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20657, Lusby, Maryland is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.58 percent of residents in 20657 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 12.10 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lusby, Maryland (ZIP Code 20657)

The diagnosis of lung cancer necessitates immediate and comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Lusby, Maryland (ZIP code 20657), the journey to treatment is intricately woven with the fabric of **transportation** options, impacting **healthcare access** and ultimately, the patient's well-being. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" write-up, delves into the practicalities of reaching vital medical facilities from this Calvert County community. It's designed to provide a clear picture for those considering **moving to Lusby** or already residing there, facing this challenging health battle.

Lusby, a primarily residential area, is not a healthcare hub itself. Therefore, residents depend on neighboring towns and cities for specialized medical care, including oncology services. This reliance on external facilities makes understanding the available **transportation** options paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a holistic view of the challenges and possibilities.

The primary arteries of travel from Lusby are Route 4 (Solomons Island Road) and Route 2/4 (Solomons Island Road/Ritchie-Marlboro Road). These highways are the lifelines connecting Lusby to the broader region. Heading north on Route 4, patients can reach CalvertHealth Medical Center in Prince Frederick within approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers a range of services, including oncology, and is a crucial first stop for many patients.

Further afield, the journey to larger hospitals with more specialized cancer centers requires longer drives. Driving north on Route 4 and then connecting to Route 50 (John Hanson Highway) offers access to Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, a trip that can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Route 50 is a major thoroughfare, and peak-hour congestion can significantly extend travel times.

Alternatively, driving north on Route 4 and then connecting to the Capital Beltway (I-495) opens access to hospitals in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. These journeys can take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on traffic and the specific hospital location. The Capital Beltway is notorious for its traffic, particularly during rush hour, making these trips potentially stressful for patients.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Calvert County. The Calvert County Transit System (Calvert County Bus) provides some service, but routes and schedules are limited, and they may not directly connect Lusby to major medical facilities. This system's accessibility for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) needs careful consideration. Buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and designated seating, but the frequency of service and the distance to the nearest bus stop from a patient's home can be significant barriers.

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly serve Lusby. Accessing MTA services, such as the Metro, requires a significant drive to a park-and-ride facility, adding considerable time and complexity to the journey. This makes public transit a less viable option for many lung cancer patients, particularly those undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue or mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a more flexible **transportation** alternative. However, the cost of frequent rides to and from medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, cannot be guaranteed. This unreliability can be a significant concern for patients needing scheduled treatments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as medical taxis or non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) companies, provide specialized assistance for patients who cannot drive or use public transit. Companies like Logisticare and ModivCare often contract with insurance providers to offer these services. However, eligibility criteria, scheduling requirements, and the potential for delays should be carefully investigated. These services are often booked in advance, and last-minute changes can be challenging.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Lusby, Maryland, highlights the dependence on personal vehicles and the challenges posed by limited public **transportation** and the potential financial burden of ride-sharing. The drive times to major cancer centers are significant, and traffic congestion can exacerbate these challenges. While medical **transportation** services offer a valuable alternative, their availability and reliability should be thoroughly assessed.

For individuals **moving to Lusby** or already residing there and facing a lung cancer diagnosis, careful planning and preparation are crucial. It is essential to understand the available **transportation** options, factor in potential delays, and explore all available resources, including financial assistance programs for **transportation** costs. Open communication with healthcare providers regarding **transportation** needs and concerns is paramount.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical grade but a qualitative assessment. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, exploring all available resources, and advocating for improved **healthcare access** in the Lusby area. The journey to recovery is challenging enough; the **transportation** aspect should not become an insurmountable obstacle. Understanding the **transportation** landscape is a critical step in navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment and improving the overall quality of life for patients in Lusby.