20680, Ridge, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20680, Ridge, Maryland is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.02 percent of residents in 20680 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 19.23 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 20680

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and timely access to diagnosis and treatment is paramount. In the rural expanse of ZIP Code 20680, encompassing the charming community of Ridge, Maryland, the ability to navigate the complexities of **transportation** directly impacts **healthcare access**. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score," analyzes the realities of reaching essential medical facilities from this Southern Maryland locale, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, all critical for patients and their families.

Ridge, nestled amidst the Chesapeake Bay's embrace, presents unique challenges. The community's relative isolation demands a careful assessment of travel options, particularly for individuals facing the urgency of a potential lung cancer diagnosis. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the logistical hurdles and available resources, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The primary arteries connecting Ridge to the broader healthcare landscape are Maryland Route 5 (Point Lookout Road) and Maryland Route 235 (Three Notch Road). These roads are the lifeblood of the community, but their reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of reliable **transportation**.

Driving to the closest hospital with comprehensive cancer care, MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The route primarily follows Route 5, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near Leonardtown. This drive time, while manageable, underscores the necessity of prompt access to care.

For more specialized treatment, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to facilities in Prince George's County or Washington, D.C. The drive to the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center in La Plata, for example, involves navigating Route 5 to Route 234, then onto US Route 301. This journey can take upwards of an hour, significantly increasing the time commitment and potential stress on patients.

Reaching hospitals in the District of Columbia, such as MedStar Georgetown University Hospital or The George Washington University Hospital, necessitates traversing the Capital Beltway (I-495), a notoriously congested highway. This trip, depending on traffic, can easily exceed two hours, making it a significant undertaking for appointments, treatments, or emergencies.

Public **transportation** options in 20680 are limited. The St. Mary's County Transit System (SMC Transit) offers bus routes, but their frequency and coverage are restricted, particularly in the more rural areas. Route 1, for example, connects Leonardtown to California, MD, but its schedule may not align with medical appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor that SMC Transit addresses with dedicated services. However, the limited reach of these routes necessitates reliance on other modes of **transportation**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Patients and their families should assess the reliability and financial implications of ride-sharing as part of their **healthcare access** strategy.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or requiring specialized care, offer a crucial lifeline. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services often accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids, ensuring safe and comfortable travel. The availability and cost of these services should be thoroughly investigated, particularly for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transit.

For those considering **moving to Ridge**, the **healthcare access** landscape is a crucial consideration. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, the relative distance to advanced medical facilities necessitates careful planning. Prospective residents should factor in the drive times, public transit limitations, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport when evaluating the suitability of the area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 20680, therefore, reflects a nuanced reality. While the initial drive to MedStar St. Mary's Hospital is manageable, the need for specialized care often necessitates longer travel times to facilities outside the immediate vicinity. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

The availability of medical transport services, while a vital resource, adds another layer of complexity and cost. For individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, these logistical challenges can add significant stress and potentially delay access to critical care.

This analysis underscores the importance of proactive planning. Patients and their families should familiarize themselves with the available **transportation** options, including the schedules of SMC Transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability and cost of medical transport. They should also establish a clear understanding of their insurance coverage for these services.

Furthermore, the community could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving **healthcare access**. This could include advocating for increased public transit routes and frequency, promoting partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, and expanding the availability of medical transport services.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 20680 highlights the importance of careful planning and proactive engagement with the **healthcare access** landscape. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of **transportation** to medical facilities require a strategic approach. By understanding the available options and proactively planning for their healthcare needs, residents of Ridge can navigate the complexities of a potential lung cancer diagnosis with greater confidence and peace of mind.