20872, Damascus, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20872, Damascus, Maryland is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.83 percent of residents in 20872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holy Cross Germantown Hospital with a distance of 6.81 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Damascus, MD (ZIP Code 20872)

The crisp air of Damascus, Maryland, a community nestled in the rolling hills of Montgomery County, offers a certain charm. But for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the bucolic setting presents a complex challenge: **healthcare access**. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the **transportation** landscape within and around ZIP code 20872, focusing on drive times, public transit, and alternative options. It aims to provide a realistic picture for residents and those **moving to Damascus**, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health journey.

The score considers the proximity and accessibility of oncology centers, hospitals equipped for lung cancer treatment, and diagnostic facilities. It weighs factors like drive times, public transportation availability, and the convenience of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to navigate the **healthcare access** maze with greater clarity and confidence.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

For residents of Damascus, the primary arteries for **transportation** are Route 27 (Ridge Road), Route 124 (Woodfield Road), and Interstate 70. These roads serve as vital connectors to the broader healthcare network. The drive to Shady Grove Medical Center in Rockville, a major regional hospital, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey involves navigating Route 27 south, merging onto I-270 south, and then exiting onto Shady Grove Road.

Similarly, driving to Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, another comprehensive medical facility, can take between 45 minutes to an hour or more, particularly during peak hours. This route involves traveling south on Route 27, connecting to I-270 south, and then transitioning to the Capital Beltway (I-495) before exiting onto Old Georgetown Road. Traffic congestion, especially around the I-270 and I-495 interchange, can significantly impact travel times.

For those seeking specialized cancer treatment, the Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center in Baltimore presents a longer commute. The journey, often exceeding an hour, involves taking I-70 east, and then navigating city streets. The journey requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The Washington Adventist Hospital in Takoma Park, located closer to Damascus, offers another option, with a drive time of approximately 45 minutes via Route 27 and the Capital Beltway.

**Public Transit Realities:**

Public **transportation** options in Damascus are limited. The Montgomery County Ride On bus system provides some service, but routes are infrequent and do not offer direct access to many major hospitals. Route 95, for example, travels along Route 27, offering a connection to the Shady Grove Metro station. However, the bus schedule is not optimized for medical appointments, and the journey requires multiple transfers, adding significant travel time.

The Washington Metropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metro system, while offering a more extensive network, is not readily accessible from Damascus. Residents would need to rely on Ride On buses or other **transportation** to reach a Metro station, further extending travel times. The Shady Grove station on the Red Line is the closest Metro stop, providing access to the city’s healthcare facilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. Ride On buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the potential for long travel times can pose challenges for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. The Metro system is also ADA-compliant, but the initial **transportation** to a station remains a hurdle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or public **transportation**. These services are available in Damascus, providing on-demand **transportation** to medical appointments. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent visits. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours, may also be a concern.

Medical **transportation** services, like Care Transport and Medical Transport Services, specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. They can be a valuable option for individuals who cannot drive or are unable to use public transit. However, these services can be costly, and prior arrangements are usually required.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Care Transport:** Offers non-emergency medical **transportation** services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **Medical Transport Services:** Provides similar services, focusing on patient comfort and safety.
* **GoGoGrandparent:** A ride-hailing service that simplifies the process of using Uber and Lyft, particularly for seniors.

**The Lung Cancer Score:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Damascus, MD (20872) reflects the challenges of **healthcare access**. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the **transportation** landscape presents significant hurdles for those battling lung cancer. Drive times to major hospitals can be lengthy, especially during peak hours. Public **transportation** options are limited and not ideally suited for medical appointments. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer viable alternatives but come with associated costs.

The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Oncology Center:** Moderate to high, due to traffic congestion.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Limited, requiring multiple transfers and extended travel times.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Generally good, but costs can be a factor.
* **Medical Transport Services:** Available, but require prior planning and budgeting.
* **Proximity to Diagnostic Facilities:** Moderate, with some facilities within a reasonable driving distance.

**Recommendations:**

For residents of Damascus facing a lung cancer diagnosis, careful planning is essential. Consider the following:

* **Proximity to Specialists:** Prioritize specialists within a reasonable driving distance to minimize travel time.
* **Transportation Planning:** Explore all **transportation** options, including ride-sharing, medical **transportation**, and family support.
* **Appointment Scheduling:** Schedule appointments during off-peak hours to minimize travel time.
* **Financial Planning:** Factor in the cost of **transportation** when budgeting for medical care.
* **Community Resources:** Explore local support groups and resources for cancer patients.

This Lung Cancer Score serves as a starting point for navigating the complexities of **healthcare access** in Damascus. By understanding the **transportation** landscape and proactively planning, individuals can enhance their ability to receive timely and effective care. The journey through lung cancer is challenging, but with informed decision-making, the residents of Damascus can navigate this path with greater resilience and hope, especially those **moving to Damascus**.