20689, Sunderland, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20689, Sunderland, Maryland is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.54 percent of residents in 20689 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calverthealth Medical Center with a distance of 7.09 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sunderland, MD (ZIP Code 20689)

Considering a move to the charming community of Sunderland, Maryland (ZIP code 20689)? This idyllic setting offers a peaceful lifestyle, but before you pack your bags, it’s crucial to understand the realities of healthcare access, particularly concerning a serious illness like lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, specifically focusing on transportation options for residents of 20689 seeking timely and effective medical care. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transportation services, all vital elements in a patient's journey.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the transportation landscape. It’s designed to inform potential residents about the ease or difficulty of reaching essential healthcare facilities, especially for those managing lung cancer. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact outcomes, making efficient transportation a critical factor. This score considers the practicalities of navigating the area, accounting for traffic, public transit limitations, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions.

Sunderland, Maryland, is a relatively rural area, which significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in the larger metropolitan areas of Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland. This geographical reality necessitates reliance on various transportation methods. The primary mode of transport will be personal vehicles, navigating the road network.

Driving is the most common method for accessing healthcare from Sunderland. The primary thoroughfare connecting Sunderland to the broader region is Maryland Route 2 (Solomons Island Road). Heading north on Route 2, you can reach the Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, a drive that typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The journey involves navigating through Edgewater and Parole, areas known for potential congestion.

Further north, the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore is accessible via Route 2 to Route 50, then onto I-97. This journey can take upwards of an hour and a half, especially during peak commuting hours. Traffic on Route 50 and I-97 can be particularly heavy, potentially extending travel times significantly.

Southbound on Route 2, you can access CalvertHealth Medical Center in Prince Frederick. This drive is generally shorter, taking approximately 20-30 minutes, offering a more immediate healthcare option. However, the specialized oncology services might be limited compared to the larger centers in Annapolis or Baltimore.

The alternative route to Baltimore involves taking Route 4 (Southern Maryland Boulevard) to Route 50, then to I-97. This route might be preferable depending on traffic conditions on Route 2. Always check traffic reports before embarking on your journey.

Public transportation options in 20689 are limited. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly serve Sunderland with bus routes. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This is a major factor in assessing the "Lung Cancer Score".

While the absence of direct MTA routes is a significant challenge, there are some potential options. The Calvert County Transportation Services (CCTS) provides demand-response transportation within Calvert County. This service requires advance booking and might be an option for residents needing rides to local medical appointments. However, it may not be a reliable solution for reaching cancer centers in Annapolis or Baltimore.

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provides another transportation layer. However, the reliability of these services in a rural area like Sunderland can be variable. Wait times can be longer, and availability might be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. These factors must be considered when assessing the "Lung Cancer Score".

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies like MedStar Mobile Healthcare and American Medical Response (AMR) provide ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation. These services are essential for patients with mobility issues or those requiring specialized care during transport. However, these services can be expensive and might not be readily available for routine appointments.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 20689 is, therefore, moderate. While CalvertHealth Medical Center offers a closer option, the lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services to reach major cancer centers in Annapolis or Baltimore pose challenges. The variable drive times, influenced by traffic, further complicate healthcare access.

The "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of careful consideration for those contemplating a move to Sunderland. Individuals with existing or potential lung cancer diagnoses must factor in the transportation challenges. The need for reliable transportation to specialized cancer care facilities is paramount.

For those considering moving to Sunderland, a proactive approach to healthcare access is crucial. Explore the availability of medical transportation services, establish a relationship with a local primary care physician, and familiarize yourself with the drive times and traffic patterns to nearby cancer centers. Consider the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing services or medical transportation.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of planning and preparation. While Sunderland offers a peaceful environment, the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a serious illness, require careful consideration. By understanding the transportation landscape, potential residents can make informed decisions and ensure access to timely and effective medical care. This understanding is vital for anyone moving to Sunderland, especially those with existing or potential health concerns.