21060, Glen Burnie, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21060, Glen Burnie, Maryland is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.50 percent of residents in 21060 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Baltimore Washington Medical Center with a distance of 2.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Glen Burnie (ZIP Code 21060)

Considering a move to Glen Burnie, Maryland (ZIP Code 21060)? This analysis delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically concerning lung cancer treatment, and evaluates the transportation options available. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a subjective assessment of the ease and efficiency of reaching specialized medical facilities from various points within the ZIP code. This score will incorporate drive times, public transit accessibility, and alternative transportation options, offering a comprehensive view for individuals prioritizing healthcare access.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment demand timely and reliable access to specialized medical centers. Factors like distance, traffic congestion, and the availability of transportation options significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life. Our analysis will focus on the transportation landscape within and around Glen Burnie, examining how easily residents can reach key healthcare providers.

**The Core of the Score: Healthcare Providers**

The primary destinations for lung cancer care in this region are likely to be the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) in Baltimore and the Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC) in Annapolis. These facilities offer comprehensive cancer treatment programs, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. While other smaller clinics and specialists may exist, these two hospitals will serve as the benchmarks for our transportation analysis.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Rush Hour**

Glen Burnie's location provides relatively easy access to both UMMC and AAMC, but traffic conditions can significantly impact travel times. The primary arteries serving the area are the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), Interstate 97, and Route 2 (Ritchie Highway).

Traveling to UMMC from Glen Burnie, the Baltimore-Washington Parkway offers the most direct route, though it is notorious for congestion during peak hours. Expect drive times to vary from 20-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Interstate 97 connects to the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), which can also lead to UMMC, but this route adds extra distance and potential for delays.

Reaching AAMC in Annapolis involves navigating Route 2, which can be particularly slow during rush hour. A drive time of 25-50 minutes is typical, depending on the starting point within Glen Burnie and the time of day. Interstate 97 provides an alternative, but it may add a few minutes to the trip.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

Public transportation options in Glen Burnie are available, but they present challenges for patients requiring frequent medical appointments. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates bus routes throughout the area.

Several bus routes connect Glen Burnie to Baltimore, including the Route 14, which travels along Ritchie Highway and provides access to the Baltimore area. However, these routes may not directly serve the UMMC campus, requiring transfers and longer travel times. Some routes may have limited weekend or evening service, further complicating healthcare access.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. MTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the overall travel time, the need for transfers, and potential delays can be significant barriers for patients undergoing treatment.

Reaching AAMC by public transit is less convenient. Limited bus service exists, and travel times are often lengthy, making this option less practical for regular appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services are readily available in Glen Burnie and can provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as MedStar Transport or American Medical Response (AMR), cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these options offer increased comfort and safety, they are generally more expensive than ride-sharing services.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Methodology**

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a subjective assessment, incorporating the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Average travel time to UMMC and AAMC during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Availability, frequency, and convenience of bus routes to the medical facilities, considering ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** Presence and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Overall Convenience:** A holistic assessment of the ease and reliability of reaching healthcare providers.

**Scoring Categories:**

* **Excellent:** Easy access to both UMMC and AAMC, with multiple transportation options and minimal travel times.
* **Good:** Relatively easy access, with a mix of transportation options and manageable travel times.
* **Fair:** Moderate access, with some challenges in terms of travel time, public transit availability, or cost.
* **Poor:** Difficult access, with limited transportation options, long travel times, and potential barriers to accessing care.

**Applying the Score to Glen Burnie (ZIP Code 21060)**

Based on the analysis, Glen Burnie likely receives a "Good" score for lung cancer healthcare access. The proximity to both UMMC and AAMC is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on roadways with potential congestion and the limitations of public transit temper the score. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer viable alternatives, but their cost must be considered.

**Recommendations for Moving to Glen Burnie**

For individuals considering a move to Glen Burnie, prioritizing a location with easy access to major roadways like the Baltimore-Washington Parkway or Interstate 97 is advisable. Exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing services is also crucial. Understanding the limitations of public transit and planning accordingly is essential.

**Conclusion: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Glen Burnie underscores the importance of considering transportation when assessing healthcare access. While the location offers reasonable access to major medical centers, individuals must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences. A proactive approach to planning transportation, including researching routes, understanding traffic patterns, and budgeting for alternative options, is essential for ensuring timely and reliable access to lung cancer care. This analysis provides a starting point for making informed decisions about moving to Glen Burnie and prioritizing healthcare access.