21074, Hampstead, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21074, Hampstead, Maryland is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.87 percent of residents in 21074 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carroll Hospital Center with a distance of 9.84 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21074 (Hampstead, Maryland)

Considering a move to the charming community of Hampstead, Maryland (ZIP Code 21074)? Beyond the allure of quaint streets and friendly neighbors, it's crucial to assess your access to healthcare, particularly if you're concerned about lung cancer. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a personalized evaluation of your transportation options to healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access in this area.

Your "Lung Cancer Score" will be based on the ease and efficiency of reaching critical healthcare services. Factors include the distance and time required to reach hospitals and specialized clinics, the availability and reliability of transportation options, and the presence of ADA-accessible services. This information is vital for making informed decisions about your health and well-being, especially when considering a move to a new location.

The primary consideration is the drive time to hospitals equipped to handle lung cancer cases. The closest major hospital is Carroll Hospital, located in Westminster, Maryland. Driving from the center of Hampstead, you'll likely utilize **Maryland Route 30 (Hanover Pike)**, then merge onto **Maryland Route 140 (Westminster Pike)**. The journey, without traffic, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive, covering roughly 12 miles. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly increase this time.

Another important option is the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center in Towson. This drive, approximately 30-40 minutes, involves navigating **Maryland Route 30**, then connecting to **Maryland Route 140** to **Interstate 795**, and finally onto the **Baltimore Beltway (I-695)**. This route, while longer, offers access to specialized cancer centers and a wider range of treatment options.

Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, a world-renowned medical institution, is accessible, but the commute is significantly longer, around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. The route involves using **Maryland Route 30**, then connecting to **Maryland Route 26**, followed by **Interstate 795**, and finally the **Baltimore Beltway (I-695)**. This route is a significant time commitment and requires careful planning, especially for regular appointments or emergencies.

Public transportation options in Hampstead are limited. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not offer direct bus routes to these hospitals from Hampstead. The closest bus routes are located in Westminster, requiring a drive to a park-and-ride facility. From Westminster, you might be able to access MTA routes, but these options are infrequent and often require multiple transfers, making them impractical for regular healthcare appointments. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. While hospitals are generally ADA-compliant, the accessibility of transportation options is a significant concern. The limited public transit options and the need for multiple transfers make it challenging for individuals with mobility limitations to access healthcare. This factor negatively affects the "Lung Cancer Score."

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hampstead. However, their availability and reliability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. While ride-sharing provides a convenient alternative to driving, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The "Lung Cancer Score" is impacted by the fluctuating availability and cost of these services.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transport for patients with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability and cost of medical transport services affect the "Lung Cancer Score."

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 21074 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Carroll Hospital provides relatively quick access to emergency care, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services raise concerns. The longer drive times to specialized cancer centers in Towson and Baltimore, coupled with potential traffic delays, can be stressful and time-consuming.

For individuals considering a move to Hampstead, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. Those with lung cancer or at high risk should carefully evaluate the transportation challenges and the potential impact on their access to timely and effective treatment. Planning for potential traffic delays, considering the cost of ride-sharing services, and exploring medical transport options are crucial steps.

The "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. It is essential to research the specific healthcare providers in the area, understand their appointment scheduling procedures, and assess the availability of transportation options. Knowing the best routes, potential traffic bottlenecks, and the cost of transportation services is critical for managing healthcare needs effectively.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not solely about the availability of medical facilities; it is also about the ability to reach those facilities in a timely and efficient manner. For those considering moving to Hampstead, a comprehensive understanding of transportation challenges is essential for ensuring access to the healthcare services they need. This proactive approach is critical for making informed decisions about your health and well-being.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that can change based on individual needs, transportation options, and healthcare preferences. Regular review and updates are recommended to ensure optimal healthcare access.