20854, Potomac, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20854, Potomac, Maryland is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.80 percent of residents in 20854 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventist Healthcare Shady Grove Medical Center with a distance of 4.04 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Potomac, MD (ZIP Code 20854)

The crisp air and rolling hills of Potomac, Maryland (ZIP Code 20854), offer a bucolic charm, drawing residents seeking a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the nation’s capital. But beyond the manicured lawns and upscale homes lies a crucial consideration for anyone, particularly those facing or concerned about lung cancer: **healthcare access**. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, assesses the ease of **transportation** to essential medical facilities, a critical factor in timely diagnosis and treatment.

This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access** for residents. This is especially important for those **moving to Potomac**, as understanding the local healthcare landscape is vital for making informed decisions about their well-being.

The primary hospitals serving Potomac residents are located in neighboring communities. Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, a Johns Hopkins Medicine affiliate, stands as a prominent healthcare provider. Reaching Suburban Hospital by car from Potomac presents a relatively straightforward journey. The most direct route typically involves taking the **Capital Beltway (I-495)** east to **Old Georgetown Road (MD-187)**.

During off-peak hours, the drive can be completed in approximately 15-20 minutes. However, the **Capital Beltway** is notorious for its congestion, and rush hour commutes can easily stretch to 45 minutes or even longer, especially on weekdays. Another option involves navigating **River Road (MD-190)**, which can offer a more scenic, albeit slower, alternative to the Beltway, particularly during peak traffic.

MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, located in the District of Columbia, is another significant healthcare option. The drive involves navigating the **Capital Beltway** east to **Canal Road NW**, or, for a slightly longer route, utilizing **River Road (MD-190)** and then crossing into the District. Traffic conditions heavily influence travel times, with peak hours extending the journey to 45 minutes or more.

For those who prefer or require public transit, the options are more limited, yet still viable. The Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) provides bus service in the area. The **Ride On** bus system, operated by Montgomery County, also offers routes connecting Potomac to various destinations.

The **Ride On Route 41**, for example, travels along **River Road (MD-190)**, providing a connection to the **Medical Center Metro Station** on the Red Line. From there, passengers can access other medical facilities and transfer to other bus routes. However, bus travel times are significantly longer than driving, and the frequency of service can be a limiting factor.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. WMATA and Ride On buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of elevators and escalators at Metro stations, and the potential for delays, should be factored into travel plans.

The Metro Red Line offers a direct route to downtown Washington, D.C., providing access to a variety of healthcare facilities, including MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. However, the journey can take an hour or longer, including the time spent waiting for the train and walking to the final destination.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Potomac. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, especially for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle. Ride-sharing can be particularly helpful for appointments or follow-up visits when the patient is not well enough to drive.

However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day, and the availability of drivers can sometimes be limited, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also add up over time, especially for frequent appointments or treatments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care, are another option. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel on board.

Several medical transport companies operate in the Potomac area, providing services to hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit, and advance booking is often required.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Potomac, MD (20854) reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers relatively easy access to healthcare facilities by car, the reliance on the **Capital Beltway** and other major roadways introduces potential delays due to traffic congestion. Public transit provides a viable alternative, especially with the **Ride On** bus system, but travel times are significantly longer. Ride-sharing offers convenience, but costs and availability can be variables. Medical transport services cater to specific needs but come at a premium.

For individuals considering **moving to Potomac**, this analysis underscores the importance of carefully evaluating their personal **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements. Factors such as proximity to medical facilities, the availability of reliable **transportation**, and the ability to navigate public transit or utilize ride-sharing services should be carefully weighed.

Furthermore, the location of lung cancer treatment centers, such as those specializing in radiation therapy or surgical oncology, should be considered. The accessibility of these centers, and the ease of getting to them, is a crucial factor in determining the overall quality of life for those undergoing treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a number; it's a reflection of the real-world challenges and opportunities that patients face when accessing healthcare. For Potomac residents, it’s a call to be informed, proactive, and resourceful in navigating the healthcare landscape. It emphasizes the need for careful planning, considering all **transportation** options, and preparing for potential delays.

The **healthcare access** landscape is constantly evolving. New medical facilities are opening, and **transportation** infrastructure is being updated. Residents should stay informed about these changes, seeking out the latest information from local healthcare providers, **transportation** authorities, and community organizations. This proactive approach empowers individuals to make the best decisions for their health and well-being.