21087, Kingsville, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21087, Kingsville, Maryland is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.63 percent of residents in 21087 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Umd Upper Chesapeake Medical Center with a distance of 6.30 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kingsville, MD (ZIP Code 21087)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of honeysuckle and anticipation in Kingsville, Maryland, a charming corner of Baltimore County. Prospective residents often envision a life of quietude, a respite from the city's relentless pulse. However, a crucial consideration often overlooked is healthcare access, particularly for those vulnerable to conditions like lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for 21087, assessing the landscape of transportation options and healthcare facilities, providing a realistic picture for those contemplating a move.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value, but a composite evaluation of the challenges and opportunities individuals face in accessing timely and quality lung cancer care. It considers the drive times, public transit viability, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport options, all crucial factors for patients needing regular appointments, treatments, or emergency care.

For residents of 21087, the nearest major hospitals with comprehensive cancer care are primarily located in Baltimore City. This necessitates a reliance on transportation, making it a critical factor in our evaluation. The primary arteries connecting Kingsville to these medical hubs are **I-95** and **I-695 (the Baltimore Beltway)**.

Driving to Johns Hopkins Hospital, a nationally recognized cancer center, typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey involves navigating **Bel Air Road (Route 1)** to access **I-695** and then **I-83 South** or **I-95 South**. Rush hour, especially weekdays between 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM, can significantly extend travel times. This is a crucial consideration for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, who may experience fatigue and require frequent, reliable transportation.

The University of Maryland Medical Center, another prominent healthcare provider, is accessible via a similar route. The drive time is comparable, also influenced by traffic congestion on **I-95** and **I-695**. Consider the potential impact of traffic delays on appointment adherence and overall patient well-being when assessing the suitability of Kingsville.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its accessibility and efficiency are limited. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates bus routes serving the area. The **Route 12** bus provides service along Bel Air Road, connecting Kingsville to Towson and, with transfers, to downtown Baltimore. However, the frequency of these buses is limited, and the travel time to major hospitals can be substantial, often exceeding an hour or more, especially when accounting for transfer times.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these routes varies. While all MTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigation can be challenging for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment. This is a critical aspect of healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer patients who may experience physical limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Kingsville. They offer a more flexible transportation option compared to public transit, allowing for door-to-door service and potentially reducing travel time. However, ride-share costs can accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent appointments. The financial burden of transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for some patients, impacting their ability to adhere to treatment plans.

Medical transport services provide a specialized solution for patients requiring non-emergency medical transportation. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and Medi-Van offer services specifically designed for individuals with medical needs. These services typically involve trained personnel and vehicles equipped to accommodate various patient requirements, including those with mobility issues or oxygen needs. While medical transport offers a higher level of care and convenience, it comes at a premium cost, and prior arrangements are necessary.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Kingsville, MD, is therefore nuanced. While the area boasts a desirable quality of life, the accessibility of comprehensive lung cancer care presents challenges. The reliance on private vehicles and the potential for traffic delays on major highways like **I-95** and **I-695** can be a significant hurdle. Public transit offers a more affordable option, but its limitations in terms of frequency, travel time, and ADA accessibility must be considered. Ride-sharing services provide convenience but can be costly, and medical transport services offer specialized care at a premium.

When considering moving to Kingsville, prospective residents, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, should carefully weigh these transportation factors. Researching the specific healthcare needs of the individual and assessing the available resources is essential. This includes identifying preferred healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage for transportation, and exploring all available options to ensure timely and convenient access to care.

The decision to move to Kingsville should be informed by a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. While the area offers a tranquil setting, the practicalities of transportation to and from medical appointments must be carefully evaluated. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the complexities of healthcare access in 21087, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and informed decision-making.