20737, Riverdale, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20737, Riverdale, Maryland is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.12 percent of residents in 20737 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Ctr, Inc with a distance of 3.00 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Riverdale, MD (ZIP Code 20737)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is a critical aspect of a patient's overall well-being. In Riverdale, Maryland (ZIP Code 20737), understanding the available *transportation* options and their impact on *healthcare access* is paramount. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a composite metric considering drive times, public transit viability, and alternative *transportation* solutions, offering a comprehensive picture for residents and those *moving to Riverdale*.

The Lung Cancer Score isn't a medical assessment but a practical guide. It evaluates the ease with which a resident can reach specialized medical facilities capable of diagnosing and treating lung cancer. This includes hospitals with oncology departments, radiation therapy centers, and pulmonology specialists. The score considers factors like travel time, frequency of service, and accessibility features.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the *transportation* landscape in Riverdale is primarily dictated by major roadways. The Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) serves as a crucial artery, offering a direct route to hospitals in both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. However, peak-hour congestion, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend travel times. The Capital Beltway (I-495/I-95) provides another option, but its notorious traffic often makes it a less desirable choice.

From Riverdale, a drive to the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, a major cancer treatment facility, is approximately 30-45 minutes during off-peak hours, using the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. During rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to an hour or more. Similarly, accessing MedStar Washington Hospital Center in D.C., a center with comprehensive cancer care, typically takes 20-35 minutes via the Baltimore-Washington Parkway or the Beltway, but can be significantly longer during peak travel times.

The local road network, including Kenilworth Avenue (MD-201) and Riverdale Road, provides access to nearby medical offices and urgent care facilities. While these may not offer specialized lung cancer treatment, they can be crucial for initial consultations, diagnostic testing, and follow-up appointments. Residents should be aware of the potential for traffic bottlenecks on these roads, especially around the Riverdale Town Center.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Buses**

Public transit offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or seeking to avoid traffic. The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), commonly known as Metro, operates a network of rail and bus lines serving the region. The closest Metro station to Riverdale is the College Park-University of Maryland station on the Green Line.

From the College Park station, patients can access downtown Washington, D.C., and connect to hospitals like MedStar Washington Hospital Center. The Green Line also offers connections to other Metro lines, extending the reach to hospitals further afield. However, the Green Line's service frequency, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

WMATA's bus service also plays a role in *transportation* access. Several bus routes, including the 83 and the F4, serve Riverdale and connect to the Green Line and other transit hubs. These buses offer a more localized *transportation* option, providing access to medical offices and other essential services within the immediate area.

The accessibility of public transit is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. WMATA strives to provide accessible service, with elevators and ramps at all stations and buses equipped with wheelchair lifts. However, delays and maintenance issues can sometimes impact accessibility, so patients should always check for service alerts and plan accordingly.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternatives to Consider**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient *transportation* option, especially for those unable to drive or use public transit. These services offer on-demand rides to medical appointments, eliminating the need to rely on family members or friends. However, ride-sharing fares can be expensive, particularly during peak hours, and availability may be limited in certain areas.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by American Medical Response (AMR) and other specialized providers, are designed to cater to the specific needs of patients with medical conditions. These services provide non-emergency medical *transportation* and can be particularly helpful for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may not be covered by all insurance plans.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Evaluation**

The Lung Cancer Score for Riverdale (ZIP Code 20737) is a nuanced assessment. Driving times to major cancer treatment centers are generally reasonable during off-peak hours, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times. Public transit offers a viable alternative, especially for those traveling to D.C., but service frequency and accessibility should be carefully considered. Ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services provide additional options, but they come with their own set of considerations, including cost and availability.

The score would be higher for residents with access to a car, as the drive times are reasonable. The score would be lower for those relying solely on public transit, particularly during off-peak hours or for appointments requiring travel to facilities outside the immediate reach of the Green Line.

**Implications for Residents and Those Moving to Riverdale**

For residents of Riverdale, understanding the *transportation* options and their impact on *healthcare access* is crucial for navigating a lung cancer diagnosis. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when planning their *transportation* to medical appointments.

For those *moving to Riverdale*, the Lung Cancer Score provides valuable insights into the accessibility of healthcare. Prospective residents should factor in the availability of *transportation* options when making their relocation decisions, especially if they or a family member have a history of lung cancer or other serious medical conditions.

The Lung Cancer Score emphasizes the importance of planning and preparation. Patients should research their *transportation* options in advance, considering factors like travel time, cost, and accessibility. They should also familiarize themselves with the available resources, including public transit schedules, ride-sharing services, and medical *transportation* providers.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score serves as a practical guide for navigating the *transportation* landscape in Riverdale, MD (ZIP Code 20737). By understanding the available options and their limitations, residents can make informed decisions about their *healthcare access* and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they need. The complexities of *transportation* are best understood through a thoughtful approach to health.