21048, Finksburg, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21048, Finksburg, Maryland is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.86 percent of residents in 21048 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carroll Hospital Center with a distance of 5.48 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Finksburg (ZIP Code 21048)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. For residents of Finksburg, Maryland (ZIP Code 21048), the ability to navigate the transportation landscape becomes a critical factor in their treatment journey. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach vital healthcare facilities, considering various transportation options, and ultimately assessing the overall accessibility to care.

Finksburg, a charming community nestled in Carroll County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. While offering a tranquil suburban lifestyle, its relative remoteness from major medical centers necessitates careful consideration of how residents can access specialized oncology services, radiation therapy, and supportive care. The "Lung Cancer Score" will, therefore, weigh the practicality of driving, the availability of public transit, and the reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

For many Finksburg residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The journey to healthcare facilities hinges on the efficiency of the road network. Interstate 795 (Northwest Expressway) serves as a crucial artery, connecting Finksburg to Baltimore and its renowned medical institutions. Traveling south on I-795 provides direct access to the greater Baltimore area, including hospitals like the University of Maryland Medical Center and Johns Hopkins Hospital.

However, the commute is not without its potential pitfalls. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. The drive from Finksburg to downtown Baltimore, a distance of approximately 30 miles, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. The journey also involves navigating several major interchanges, including the I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) and the Jones Falls Expressway (I-83), which can further complicate the commute.

Beyond I-795, several secondary roads offer alternative routes. Route 140, a major thoroughfare, provides access to Westminster and other nearby towns. Route 30, another significant road, connects Finksburg to Hampstead and the northern parts of Carroll County. These routes, while often less congested than I-795, may involve slower speeds and more traffic lights, potentially adding to travel time.

The "Lung Cancer Score" must also consider the availability of parking at healthcare facilities. Many hospitals and clinics in the Baltimore area offer ample parking, but fees can be a significant expense. Furthermore, individuals undergoing treatment may experience fatigue or mobility issues, making long walks from parking areas to treatment centers challenging.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Finksburg are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates bus routes in the area, but service frequency and coverage are restricted. The primary bus route serving Finksburg is the Route 94, which connects Westminster to the Owings Mills Metro Station.

However, the Route 94 operates on a limited schedule, with infrequent service, especially during evenings and weekends. This makes it challenging for patients requiring regular appointments or those needing to access emergency care. Furthermore, the journey to the Metro station can be time-consuming, requiring transfers and potentially long wait times.

The MTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service still pose challenges for those with mobility issues or those residing in areas not directly served by the bus route.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option for Finksburg residents. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to rely on public transit schedules or personal vehicles. The availability of ride-sharing services in Finksburg is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 10 to 20 minutes.

However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or long-distance trips. The cost of a ride to Baltimore hospitals can easily exceed $50 each way, placing a financial burden on patients and their families. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

Medical transport services offer a specialized transportation option for individuals with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical professionals or attendants. Several medical transport companies operate in the Finksburg area, including MedStar Mobile Healthcare and American Medical Response.

Medical transport services can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those requiring assistance with medical equipment, or those who are unable to drive themselves. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. Insurance coverage for medical transport varies, and patients may be responsible for a portion of the costs.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in Context**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Finksburg (ZIP Code 21048) must acknowledge the challenges and opportunities presented by its transportation landscape. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion and parking costs can be significant drawbacks. Public transit options are limited, posing a barrier for many residents. Ride-sharing services provide a flexible alternative, but costs and reliability remain concerns. Medical transport services offer specialized care but are typically the most expensive option.

For individuals considering moving to Finksburg, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a crucial factor in assessing the feasibility of accessing healthcare. Those with lung cancer or at high risk should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of services before relocating. The ability to navigate the transportation system effectively is paramount to receiving timely and appropriate medical care.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Finksburg reflects a complex interplay of factors. The score should reflect the need for residents to be proactive in planning their transportation needs, exploring all available options, and advocating for improved public transit and affordable medical transport services. The well-being of those facing a lung cancer diagnosis depends on it.