21120, Parkton, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21120, Parkton, Maryland is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.39 percent of residents in 21120 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carroll Hospital Center with a distance of 17.73 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Parkton (ZIP Code 21120)

The air in Parkton, Maryland (ZIP code 21120), whispers of rolling hills, equestrian estates, and a slower pace of life. Yet, beneath this idyllic surface, the shadow of illness, particularly lung cancer, can loom large. Understanding healthcare access is paramount, and this write-up aims to illuminate the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents, focusing on transportation options to essential medical facilities. This analysis is crucial for current residents and those considering moving to Parkton, ensuring informed decisions regarding healthcare accessibility.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach vital healthcare services. It considers the time and resources needed to access lung cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The score is intrinsically linked to transportation, the lifeline connecting patients to the healthcare they need.

For those driving, the primary arteries of transportation in and around Parkton are crucial. The Baltimore-Harrisburg Expressway (I-83) is the major north-south corridor, offering relatively swift access to Baltimore City and its numerous hospitals and medical centers. Traveling south on I-83, residents can reach the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) in approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The drive to Johns Hopkins Hospital, a renowned cancer treatment facility, takes a similar amount of time, also via I-83.

Local roads, such as York Road (Route 45), provide alternative routes, though these can be slower, especially during peak hours. York Road offers access to local medical practices and urgent care facilities, providing preliminary medical attention. The drive to Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) in Towson, via York Road and I-695 (the Baltimore Beltway), is typically around 30-45 minutes.

Public transportation options in Parkton are limited. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not have extensive bus routes serving the immediate area. However, the MTA's Route 9, which runs along York Road, offers a potential connection to the light rail system in Timonium. From Timonium, passengers can access downtown Baltimore and connect to various hospitals. This journey, however, is time-consuming, potentially taking over an hour and a half to reach a major hospital.

ADA accessibility on MTA buses and light rail is generally good, with ramps, designated seating, and audio-visual announcements. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for transfers can pose significant challenges for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues. The lack of direct public transit to major cancer centers significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score" for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Parkton, providing a more flexible transportation alternative. The cost, however, can be substantial, especially during peak hours or for longer distances to hospitals in Baltimore. For patients with limited financial resources, the expense of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier to accessing care.

Medical transportation services, such as FirstCall Medical Transportation and MedStar Mobile Healthcare, offer specialized services for patients requiring assistance. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services are invaluable for patients with mobility limitations, they often require advance booking and can be costly.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Parkton is influenced by the availability and efficiency of these transportation options. Residents with personal vehicles have a significant advantage, enjoying relatively quick access to specialized cancer treatment centers in Baltimore. The drive times, while manageable, require careful planning, especially for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Those reliant on public transportation face significant challenges, including lengthy travel times and the need for multiple transfers. The limited frequency of buses and the lack of direct routes to hospitals contribute to a lower "Lung Cancer Score" for this segment of the population.

Ride-sharing services offer a more flexible alternative but can be expensive. Medical transportation services provide essential support for patients with mobility issues but also involve costs and require advance planning.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the proximity of local healthcare providers. While Parkton has local primary care physicians and urgent care facilities, specialized cancer care, including oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists, is primarily located in Baltimore. This necessitates travel, adding to the burden on patients and their families.

The availability of support services, such as cancer support groups and patient navigators, is also a factor. These services can help patients navigate the healthcare system, manage their treatment, and cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of a cancer diagnosis. The proximity of these services to Parkton residents can positively influence the "Lung Cancer Score."

Moving to Parkton requires careful consideration of healthcare access. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized cancer care is a significant factor. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and financial resources when evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" for this community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not static. It can be improved through initiatives that enhance transportation options, such as expanding public transit routes, subsidizing ride-sharing services for patients, or increasing the availability of medical transportation. Community efforts to support cancer patients and their families, such as establishing local support groups or providing patient navigation services, can also contribute to a higher score.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Parkton reflects the interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and community support. While the area offers a desirable living environment, residents must carefully consider the transportation challenges associated with accessing specialized cancer care. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and effective treatment. The drive times, the limited public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles are all key elements of the score. Addressing these challenges through improved transportation options and community support is essential to improving the "Lung Cancer Score" and ensuring that all residents of Parkton have access to the healthcare they need.