21001, Aberdeen, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21001, Aberdeen, Maryland is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.18 percent of residents in 21001 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Harford Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.49 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Aberdeen, Maryland (ZIP Code 21001)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is a critical component of their care. For residents of Aberdeen, Maryland (ZIP code 21001), understanding the accessibility of treatment centers is paramount. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the ease of transportation to relevant medical facilities, considering factors such as drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Aberdeen, offering a glimpse into the realities of healthcare access within the community.

The primary healthcare provider for many in Aberdeen is the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health System, with its primary location in Bel Air, Maryland. This facility offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and supportive services. The drive from central Aberdeen to this hospital typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The most direct route involves using US Route 40 (Pulaski Highway) and then transitioning to MD Route 24. Traffic can be a factor, especially during peak commuting hours.

Other nearby hospitals and specialized cancer centers offer alternative options. The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, renowned for its oncology expertise, is approximately a 45- to 60-minute drive via I-95 South. While this offers access to world-class specialists, the longer commute adds to the patient's burden, especially during treatment. The same is true for the commute to the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, which is also approximately 45-60 minutes via I-95 South.

Public transportation presents another layer of complexity. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service in the area. Several bus routes serve Aberdeen, including the #3 and #5, which connect to the local MARC train station. However, these bus routes primarily serve local routes, and their direct access to major cancer centers is limited. The MARC Penn Line offers train service to Baltimore, providing a more efficient option for accessing Johns Hopkins or the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, the train station in Aberdeen requires additional transportation to reach the hospital.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for those with mobility limitations. The MTA strives to provide accessible services, including buses equipped with ramps and lifts. However, the availability of accessible features on all routes and the potential for delays can pose challenges. The MARC train stations are generally ADA compliant, but the journey to the final destination still needs to be assessed for accessibility.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Aberdeen and offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Medical transport services, such as MedStar and CareRide, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, they are generally more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these factors to provide a holistic assessment of healthcare access. It weighs the convenience and speed of driving, the affordability and accessibility of public transit, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport. The score also considers the distance to specialized cancer centers, the availability of comprehensive cancer care within the community, and the overall patient experience.

For individuals considering moving to Aberdeen, the "Lung Cancer Score" can be a valuable tool for evaluating the community's suitability. While Aberdeen offers a relatively short commute to a major healthcare provider, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can be a drawback. The limited public transit options and the longer commute to specialized cancer centers in Baltimore are also important considerations.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static metric. It can be adjusted based on individual needs and preferences. For example, a patient with a strong preference for a particular oncologist might prioritize the commute time to that specialist's practice. Similarly, a patient with limited mobility might place a higher value on the availability of accessible transportation options.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" aims to empower individuals with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It highlights the importance of considering transportation as a critical element of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a serious illness like lung cancer. The goal is to ensure that residents of Aberdeen, Maryland, have the resources and information they need to navigate the healthcare system with confidence and receive the best possible care.