20764, Shady Side, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20764, Shady Side, Maryland is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

22.78 percent of residents in 20764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Luminis Health J Kent Mcnew Family Medical Center with a distance of 10.51 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 20764**

The sun glints off the Chesapeake Bay, a siren song for those considering a move to Shady Side, Maryland (ZIP Code 20764). But beyond the scenic allure lies the practical reality of healthcare access, a critical consideration, especially for individuals concerned about lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and their impact on accessing specialized medical care, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative evaluation. It considers the ease and efficiency with which residents of 20764 can reach essential healthcare facilities for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Factors like proximity to hospitals, specialists, and diagnostic centers, coupled with the reliability and convenience of available transportation, are paramount. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by the road network. From Shady Side, the primary artery is MD-258 (Bay Front Road), which leads north to MD-2 and south to MD-468. These routes provide access to Annapolis and Edgewater, where some medical facilities are located.

The drive to Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC) in Annapolis, a major healthcare provider, is typically 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Navigating MD-2 during peak hours can add significant time, particularly during the morning and evening commutes. Similarly, reaching the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center (UM BWMC) in Glen Burnie, a facility with advanced cancer treatment options, requires a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes, utilizing MD-2 and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295).

Driving south on MD-258 to MD-468 and then to Solomons Island offers access to CalvertHealth Medical Center, a drive of about 45-60 minutes. This route can be less congested than the northern routes, but it's a longer distance. For specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to Baltimore or Washington, D.C., increasing drive times substantially. The Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), the Capital Beltway (I-495), and the Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) Parkway are crucial for these longer journeys.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 20764 are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Anne Arundel County Department of Transportation (AA County Transit) operates bus routes, but service to Shady Side is infrequent and primarily focuses on connecting with Annapolis.

Bus route 210, for example, might offer a connection to Annapolis, but the schedule is limited, with buses running infrequently, especially on weekends. Furthermore, the routes may not directly serve medical facilities, necessitating transfers and longer travel times. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. AA County Transit buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and lifts, but the overall limited service and the potential for multiple transfers can still create difficulties.

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly serve Shady Side, so connections to the Baltimore area via public transit are cumbersome and require multiple transfers, adding considerable time and complexity to the journey. The lack of robust public transportation underscores the importance of alternative transportation options for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option, particularly for those who do not drive or have limited mobility. However, the availability of these services in Shady Side can vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make these services expensive.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare or American Medical Response (AMR), are available for non-emergency and emergency medical transportation. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, but they can be costly, and prior arrangements are often required. The availability of these services can be a lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing assistance.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 20764 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Annapolis and the presence of ride-sharing services offer some advantages, the limited public transit and the potential for long drive times to specialized facilities pose significant challenges. Residents must carefully consider their transportation needs when assessing healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Shady Side, a thorough evaluation of their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. The ability to drive or access reliable transportation is crucial for timely access to medical care. Exploring options like ride-sharing services, medical transport providers, and the availability of family or friends to provide transportation is vital.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Transportation for Well-being**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 20764 emphasizes the importance of transportation in accessing healthcare. While the scenic beauty of Shady Side is undeniable, the practicalities of healthcare access, especially for individuals facing lung cancer, cannot be overlooked. A proactive approach to transportation planning, including exploring all available options and considering potential challenges, is essential for ensuring timely and effective medical care. This is not just about getting to appointments; it's about ensuring a pathway to well-being, a critical consideration for anyone making the move to this charming corner of Maryland.