21154, Street, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21154, Street, Maryland is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.04 percent of residents in 21154 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Umd Upper Chesapeake Medical Center with a distance of 8.69 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 21154

The journey to healthcare, especially for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is fraught with challenges. Geographic isolation, limited transportation options, and the urgency of treatment can significantly impact outcomes. This report analyzes the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare within ZIP code 21154, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patient access, ultimately contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score." We’ll explore the realities of moving to Street, Maryland, and the specific transportation landscape to understand how residents can reach vital medical services.

ZIP code 21154, encompassing the community of Street, Maryland, presents a unique set of transportation hurdles. Nestled in northern Harford County, the area is characterized by a blend of rural landscapes and suburban development. This geographical context directly shapes the available transportation options, influencing a patient's ability to access timely and comprehensive lung cancer care. The distance to specialized medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the availability of public transit all play crucial roles in determining the ease and speed with which individuals can receive treatment.

The primary artery for vehicular transportation in and out of Street is **Maryland Route 23**, also known as Norrisville Road. This two-lane road, though scenic, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the intersection with **Maryland Route 165** (Pylesville Road) and the access points to the larger thoroughfares. Further complicating matters, the lack of dedicated bus lanes or traffic management systems can extend travel times, especially for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

To reach more comprehensive lung cancer care, residents often need to travel to larger medical centers located outside of Street. The closest major healthcare hub is in Bel Air, Maryland, approximately 15-20 minutes away by car, depending on traffic. This journey typically involves navigating **Maryland Route 24** (Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway) or utilizing **Interstate 95**, which, while offering faster speeds, can be subject to heavy traffic.

For patients without personal vehicles, the public transit options are limited. The Harford County Transit system operates a local bus service, but its routes and frequency are restricted. The primary route serving the Street area is likely to be the **Harford Transit Route 1** or **Route 2**, which connects to Bel Air and other towns. However, these routes often have infrequent schedules, especially on weekends and evenings, and may not directly serve all the necessary medical facilities.

The accessibility of these buses for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that all public transit vehicles be accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. This includes features such as ramps, lifts, and designated seating. While the Harford County Transit system is required to comply with ADA regulations, the availability of accessible routes and the reliability of these features are essential considerations for patients with lung cancer, who may experience mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary significantly depending on the time of day, demand, and the geographic location. In a rural area like Street, ride-sharing services may be less readily available than in more urban centers. Furthermore, the cost of frequent rides to and from medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden for patients, particularly those facing the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide specialize in non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service and assisting patients with mobility challenges. While these services can be reliable, they often come at a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing, potentially creating another barrier to healthcare access.

The availability of these transportation options directly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of 21154. This score reflects the ease with which patients can access timely and appropriate lung cancer care, including diagnostic testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments. The score considers factors such as the distance to medical facilities, the availability and reliability of transportation options, the cost of transportation, and the accessibility of services for individuals with disabilities.

For a patient moving to Street, Maryland, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Before relocating, individuals should research the proximity of oncology centers, radiation therapy facilities, and pulmonologists. They should also investigate the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. Assessing the potential costs associated with transportation, including gas, parking, and ride-sharing fees, is also essential.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 21154 is influenced by the limitations in transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transit schedules, and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can create barriers to care. These challenges can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, increased stress for patients and their families, and potentially poorer health outcomes.

Improving the "Lung Cancer Score" in 21154 requires a multifaceted approach. Enhancing public transit services, including increasing route frequency and extending service hours, is essential. Expanding the availability of ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers could also improve access. Providing financial assistance to patients for transportation costs can alleviate some of the financial burdens.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel for certain appointments. Investing in community outreach programs to educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources can also improve access to care.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in 21154 presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the need for a comprehensive approach to improve healthcare access. By addressing the transportation barriers, enhancing public transit, expanding ride-sharing and medical transportation options, and supporting telehealth services, the community can improve the quality of life and health outcomes for residents of Street and the surrounding areas. This commitment to improving transportation access is not just about getting patients to their appointments; it's about ensuring they have the best possible chance of fighting and overcoming this devastating disease.