21061, Glen Burnie, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21061, Glen Burnie, Maryland is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.13 percent of residents in 21061 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Baltimore Washington Medical Center with a distance of 1.75 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21061

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a critical illness like lung cancer, is a complex undertaking. It involves not only the quality of medical care but also the ease with which that care can be accessed. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 21061 (Glen Burnie, Maryland), evaluating its impact on **healthcare access** for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer. This “Lung Cancer Score” considers various **transportation** modalities, from personal vehicles to public transit, offering a comprehensive perspective for residents and those **moving to Glen Burnie**.

Glen Burnie, a vibrant community in Anne Arundel County, boasts a diverse population and a range of healthcare facilities. However, geographical realities and the limitations of different **transportation** options can create significant challenges for patients. The ability to reach appointments, treatments, and follow-up care is paramount, and this assessment aims to illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of the local **transportation** infrastructure.

**The Automotive Advantage:**

For many, the private vehicle remains the primary mode of **transportation**. In 21061, major arteries like the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), Ritchie Highway (MD-2), and Interstate 97 are critical for navigating the area. Driving times to healthcare facilities are influenced by traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

The Baltimore-Washington Parkway, while offering a relatively direct route to Baltimore-area hospitals, can be prone to delays. Ritchie Highway, a major commercial corridor, experiences heavy traffic, particularly around shopping centers and intersections. Interstate 97 provides a more direct route to Annapolis and the southern part of Anne Arundel County, but its proximity to the Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) can cause congestion.

Consider a hypothetical scenario: a patient living near Marley Station Mall needs to reach the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center (UM BWMC). The drive, via Ritchie Highway and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, could take 20-30 minutes under normal conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily double, adding stress and potential delays for an already vulnerable patient.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides public transit options in 21061, offering a crucial alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. The primary bus routes serving the area include the 14, 70, and 77.

Route 14 connects Glen Burnie to downtown Baltimore, providing access to major hospitals like the University of Maryland Medical Center. Route 70 serves the Ritchie Highway corridor, offering access to local medical offices and facilities. Route 77 provides a connection to the BWI Airport and the surrounding area.

However, public transit in 21061 presents several challenges. Frequency can be an issue, with buses running less frequently during off-peak hours and on weekends. This can necessitate longer wait times and potentially disrupt treatment schedules. Furthermore, the reliability of the MTA system is sometimes questioned, with delays and cancellations occurring due to traffic, weather, or mechanical issues.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The MTA is committed to providing accessible service for individuals with disabilities. All MTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, and announcements are made regarding stops and route information. However, the availability of accessible features at bus stops varies. Some stops may lack ramps or accessible pathways, making it difficult for individuals with mobility impairments to access the service.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another **transportation** option, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. These services can be particularly useful for patients who need to attend appointments at irregular hours or who are unable to drive. The convenience of ride-sharing is undeniable, but the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide and MedStar Mobile Healthcare, specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often cater to patients with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair assistance or stretcher transport. While medical **transportation** can be a valuable resource, it often comes at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Evaluating Healthcare Access:**

To calculate a "Lung Cancer Score," several factors are considered. These include:

* **Drive Times:** Average drive times to major healthcare facilities, considering peak and off-peak traffic.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Frequency, route coverage, and accessibility of MTA bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Costs:** The financial burden associated with these services.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of accessible features at bus stops and healthcare facilities.

The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, highlighting the challenges faced by lung cancer patients in 21061. A high score indicates excellent **healthcare access**, while a low score suggests significant barriers.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor. UM BWMC, located within the ZIP code, is a primary resource. The drive time to this facility is generally shorter than to hospitals in Baltimore or Annapolis. However, access to specialized oncology services may require travel to facilities outside of 21061.

The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, a renowned cancer center, is accessible via the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. The drive time can vary significantly depending on traffic. The Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, another major healthcare provider, is accessible via Interstate 97, with similar traffic considerations.

**Implications for Residents and Those Moving to Glen Burnie:**

For residents of 21061 diagnosed with lung cancer, understanding the **transportation** landscape is critical. The availability of a personal vehicle, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the ability to navigate public transit or ride-sharing services will significantly impact their ability to receive timely and effective care.

For those **moving to Glen Burnie**, this analysis provides valuable insights into the **transportation** challenges associated with healthcare. Prospective residents should consider their **transportation** needs and the proximity of healthcare facilities when making their relocation decisions.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 21061 will provide a nuanced understanding of **healthcare access**. While the area offers a range of **transportation** options, challenges remain. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services can create significant barriers for lung cancer patients. This assessment underscores the importance of proactive planning, understanding the local **transportation** infrastructure, and advocating for improvements to ensure that all residents of 21061 have equitable access to the healthcare they need.