20877, Gaithersburg, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20877, Gaithersburg, Maryland is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.45 percent of residents in 20877 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventist Healthcare Shady Grove Medical Center with a distance of 2.73 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gaithersburg (ZIP Code 20877)**

Considering a move to Gaithersburg, Maryland (ZIP code 20877)? Beyond the appealing suburban charm, access to quality healthcare, particularly for a critical illness like lung cancer, is a paramount concern. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" – a subjective assessment of transportation options and healthcare access within and around 20877, focusing on the practicalities of getting to appointments and treatments. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a holistic view for those prioritizing healthcare access.

Gaithersburg’s location in Montgomery County, a bustling Washington D.C. suburb, presents a complex transportation landscape. The area is well-served by major roadways, public transit, and ride-sharing services, but navigating these options, especially when dealing with a serious illness, requires careful consideration. The Lung Cancer Score aims to illuminate these complexities.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents of 20877. The area is crisscrossed by major highways, including Interstate 270 (I-270), a crucial artery connecting Gaithersburg to Washington D.C. and Frederick. The drive to major medical centers in the District, such as MedStar Georgetown University Hospital or The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic.

Route 355 (Rockville Pike) is another vital road, offering access to local hospitals and medical facilities. Driving to Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, a prominent hospital in Rockville, typically takes 10-15 minutes, making it a convenient option. However, peak-hour congestion on I-270 and Route 355 can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting the timeliness of appointments and treatments.

The ease of driving, however, is contingent on factors such as traffic, parking availability, and the patient's physical condition. Individuals undergoing cancer treatment often experience fatigue, making long drives and navigating parking lots challenging.

**Public Transit Pathways: Navigating the Metro and Beyond**

The Washington Metropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), commonly known as Metro, provides public transportation options. The Red Line serves Gaithersburg, with stations like Shady Grove and the nearby Rockville station. These stations offer access to downtown D.C., where numerous hospitals and specialist clinics are located.

The Metro's accessibility is a significant factor. The Red Line stations in and around 20877 are ADA-compliant, featuring elevators, ramps, and accessible seating. This is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. However, the Metro's reliability can be unpredictable, with occasional delays and service disruptions.

Bus routes, operated by Montgomery County Ride On, complement the Metro. Several routes, such as the 55 and 75, connect Gaithersburg to surrounding areas, including hospitals and medical facilities. Ride On buses are also ADA-accessible.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Routes to Care**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer on-demand transportation. These services are readily available in 20877 and can provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those unable to drive or needing door-to-door service. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services cater specifically to patients needing assistance. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and may be covered by insurance, but they can be subject to availability and scheduling constraints.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Subjective Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for 20877 is a composite of the factors described above.

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. While major hospitals are accessible by car, traffic congestion can be a significant factor.
* **Public Transit:** Moderate to Good. The Metro and Ride On buses offer accessible options, but reliability and travel times can be drawbacks.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Good. Readily available services provide alternatives, but costs and scheduling need consideration.
* **Healthcare Access:** Good. Several hospitals and specialist clinics are accessible within a reasonable distance.

**Overall, the Lung Cancer Score for 20877 is a 7 out of 10.** This score reflects a generally favorable environment for healthcare access, but with caveats. Residents should factor in traffic, the reliability of public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport when planning for healthcare needs.

**Final Thoughts: Making Informed Decisions**

Moving to Gaithersburg (20877) presents a range of transportation options for accessing healthcare. The Lung Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating these options, recognizing the importance of easy access to medical care. Prospective residents should carefully consider their individual needs, health conditions, and preferences when making decisions about healthcare access and transportation. The area offers a generally favorable environment for those seeking quality healthcare, but careful planning and consideration of transportation logistics are essential.