21136, Reisterstown, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21136, Reisterstown, Maryland is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.55 percent of residents in 21136 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Hospital Center with a distance of 7.23 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 21136 (Reisterstown, Maryland)**

The prospect of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and decisive action. For residents of Reisterstown, Maryland (ZIP Code 21136), understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on the critical element of transportation. Timely access to specialists, diagnostic imaging, and treatment centers directly impacts patient outcomes. We will explore the available transportation options, highlighting drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for those residing in or considering moving to Reisterstown.

Reisterstown's location in Baltimore County offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban healthcare resources. The Lung Cancer Score considers this balance, assessing the ease with which residents can reach vital medical facilities. It's not just about distance; it's about the time, cost, and convenience of getting there. The score will be a general assessment, as individual circumstances vary.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary means of transportation for most Reisterstown residents is the automobile. The major thoroughfares shaping healthcare access are Interstate 795 (I-795), the main artery connecting Reisterstown to Baltimore City, and the Baltimore Beltway (I-695). Driving times will fluctuate depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours.

For those seeking treatment at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, a significant healthcare provider, the drive is typically manageable. Accessing the hospital from Reisterstown Road, the main thoroughfare, via I-795 South and then onto I-695 East, can take between 15-25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. During rush hour, this commute could extend to 30-45 minutes, especially if there are accidents or construction delays.

Johns Hopkins Hospital, a world-renowned facility, is further afield. Reaching it from Reisterstown usually involves a combination of I-795 South, I-695 East, and then a series of city streets. The drive can take anywhere from 30-50 minutes, or longer during peak hours. Similarly, reaching the Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) requires navigating I-795 South to I-695 East, and then a short drive on local roads. This trip typically takes 20-35 minutes, depending on traffic.

The drive to local oncology offices and imaging centers located in the surrounding areas is generally more convenient. Many are accessible within a 10-20 minute drive via local roads like Reisterstown Road and Greenspring Avenue, offering a more direct and less stressful experience.

**Public Transit: A Network of Routes**

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides public transportation options in the Reisterstown area, though their impact on healthcare access is limited compared to driving. The primary route serving Reisterstown is the MTA bus route 94, which travels along Reisterstown Road, connecting the area to the Owings Mills Metro Station. From there, passengers can access the Baltimore Metro Subway, offering connections to downtown Baltimore and other areas.

The bus route 94, while offering a cost-effective alternative, can be time-consuming. The journey to St. Joseph Medical Center via bus and subway could take over an hour, potentially involving transfers and waiting times. The route 94 buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility impairments.

Reaching Johns Hopkins Hospital or GBMC via public transit is even more challenging, requiring multiple transfers and significantly extending travel times. The limitations of public transportation highlight the importance of exploring other options for healthcare access, especially for those facing a serious medical condition.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. They provide on-demand transportation, allowing patients to schedule rides to and from medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand, distance, and time of day. However, it provides a door-to-door service, eliminating the need for parking or navigating public transit.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), providing door-to-door service with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Several medical transport companies operate in the Baltimore area, including: First Transit, LogistiCare, and Medical Transportation Management (MTM).

These services are often covered by insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, for eligible patients. The availability of medical transport services is crucial for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit due to their medical condition.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Summary Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of 21136 reflects a mixed picture. Reisterstown offers reasonable access to healthcare facilities via automobile, with drive times to major hospitals ranging from 15-50 minutes, depending on traffic. The reliance on highways like I-795 and I-695 makes timely arrival a significant consideration.

Public transit, while available, is less efficient for healthcare access, particularly for reaching hospitals further away. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide valuable alternatives, especially for those with mobility limitations.

The score is influenced by the balance between suburban living and proximity to urban healthcare resources. While the drive times are generally manageable, the potential for traffic delays and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning.

**Healthcare access** is a critical factor when considering moving to Reisterstown. The availability of various **transportation** options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, directly impacts the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services. The Lung Cancer Score underscores the importance of understanding these factors when making decisions about healthcare and **moving to Reisterstown**.