21034, Darlington, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21034, Darlington, Maryland is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.00 percent of residents in 21034 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Harford Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.12 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Darlington, MD (ZIP Code 21034)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and efficient access to specialized healthcare. In the serene embrace of Darlington, Maryland (ZIP code 21034), a community nestled amidst rolling hills and farmland, the accessibility of vital medical resources becomes a critical factor. This write-up, focusing on the crucial element of transportation, aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, illuminating the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the healthcare landscape for residents and those considering **moving to Darlington**.

The score considers the practicalities of reaching essential medical facilities, particularly those specializing in lung cancer treatment. This includes drive times, public transportation options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. Each facet contributes to a comprehensive understanding of **healthcare access** within this specific geographic area.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare in and around Darlington are US Route 1 and MD Route 161. These roadways serve as the primary conduits, funneling traffic towards larger medical centers. Driving times are significantly influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak commuting hours.

The closest major healthcare facility is University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health, located in Bel Air, Maryland. The drive, typically taking between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, offers comprehensive cancer care, including radiation oncology and medical oncology. This drive, primarily via MD Route 161 and US Route 1, is generally straightforward, but congestion can occur, especially near Bel Air.

Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, a renowned center for lung cancer treatment, presents a more extended journey. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, primarily utilizing I-95 South. This route, while a major interstate, is prone to heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour, which can significantly extend travel times. The journey necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Another option, closer than Johns Hopkins, is the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. The drive time is similar to Johns Hopkins, around 45 to 60 minutes, using I-95 South. Again, traffic is a key factor in determining travel time.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Reach**

Public **transportation** options in Darlington are limited. The primary provider is the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA). However, bus service in this area is infrequent and primarily serves local routes.

The most relevant bus route is the MTA Route 10, which travels along US Route 1. This route offers a connection to the Bel Air Transit Center, where transfers to other routes are possible. Unfortunately, Route 10's schedule may not align with the needs of patients requiring frequent medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. MTA buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and route coverage pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

The absence of a dedicated public transit route directly serving major cancer centers in Baltimore presents a significant hurdle. Patients relying on public transportation face considerable travel times and potential transfer complications. This highlights a crucial area for improvement in **healthcare access** for the Darlington community.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option. Availability in Darlington is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can significantly increase costs. For patients requiring frequent appointments, the financial burden of relying solely on ride-sharing can be substantial.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel. Several providers operate in the region, including Firstat Nursing Services and American Medical Response. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be costly.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline for individuals with limited **transportation** options. They offer a degree of flexibility and convenience, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered.

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

Based on the factors outlined above, a "Lung Cancer Score" for Darlington, MD (ZIP code 21034) would reflect a mixed picture. While the proximity to the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health in Bel Air offers relatively quick access to local cancer care, the challenges of accessing specialized treatment centers in Baltimore, coupled with limited public transportation options, create significant barriers.

The score would be tempered by the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, which provide crucial support for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the cost and potential limitations of these services must be factored into the overall assessment.

**Moving to Darlington**: The Considerations

For individuals considering **moving to Darlington**, the **transportation** challenges associated with accessing specialized lung cancer care should be a significant consideration. While the area offers a peaceful and attractive living environment, the limited public transit options and potential reliance on personal vehicles or costly ride-sharing services can impact the quality of life for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and circumstances, considering factors such as their health status, mobility, and financial resources. Researching available healthcare options, including the specific services offered by local hospitals and cancer centers, is essential.

Furthermore, exploring the possibility of carpooling with neighbors or utilizing community-based **transportation** programs can help mitigate the challenges of accessing healthcare. Proactive planning and a comprehensive understanding of the available resources are essential for ensuring timely and effective medical care.

In conclusion, while Darlington offers a desirable lifestyle, its "Lung Cancer Score" reflects a need for enhanced **transportation** options and improved **healthcare access**. Future initiatives aimed at expanding public transit, increasing the availability of affordable ride-sharing, and supporting medical transport services would significantly enhance the quality of life for residents and strengthen the community's ability to combat this devastating disease.