21156, Upper Falls, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21156, Upper Falls, Maryland is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

13.48 percent of residents in 21156 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Umd Upper Chesapeake Medical Center with a distance of 6.23 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Upper Falls (ZIP Code 21156)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, a reality demanding immediate and effective healthcare access. For residents of Upper Falls, Maryland (ZIP Code 21156), the ability to quickly and reliably reach medical facilities is paramount. This write-up assesses the “Lung Cancer Score” for this community, focusing on the critical element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We will explore the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and evaluate their efficiency in reaching essential medical services.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers and hospitals. For residents of Upper Falls, the closest options are primarily located in Baltimore City and the surrounding suburbs. Assuming a starting point within the ZIP Code, the primary route to the Johns Hopkins Hospital, a nationally recognized cancer treatment center, involves a drive south on **Falls Road** and then east on **I-695 (the Baltimore Beltway)**. The total distance is approximately 15-20 miles, translating to a drive time of 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic.

Another crucial healthcare destination is the University of Maryland Medical Center, also in Baltimore. This journey necessitates heading south on **Falls Road** and then east on **I-83 (the Jones Falls Expressway)**. This route is generally shorter in distance, around 12-15 miles, but can be significantly impacted by rush hour traffic on the expressway. Expect a travel time of 30-50 minutes, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Moving further afield, the Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) in Towson offers another viable option. The drive involves heading south on **Falls Road** and then east on **I-695**, again navigating the Baltimore Beltway. The distance is slightly longer, around 18-22 miles, and the travel time mirrors the Johns Hopkins route, typically ranging from 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic congestion.

These drive times, while not excessively long, are subject to the unpredictable nature of urban traffic. Accidents, construction, and rush hour congestion can significantly extend these travel times, potentially impacting the timeliness of medical care. This is particularly critical for lung cancer patients who may require frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

Public transportation presents an alternative, though its efficacy in this context requires careful consideration. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates bus routes that serve the Upper Falls area. However, these routes are often characterized by longer travel times and multiple transfers, making them less ideal for urgent medical appointments.

The primary bus route serving the area is the **MTA Route 94**, which runs along **Falls Road**. This route connects with other bus lines and the Baltimore Metro Subway, offering access to downtown Baltimore and its medical facilities. However, the bus ride to the Johns Hopkins Hospital, for example, would likely involve a transfer, potentially adding an hour or more to the total travel time.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with mobility limitations is a crucial factor. The MTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses with ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of these features and the overall convenience of navigating the public transit system with mobility challenges can still pose significant hurdles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible and convenient transportation option. These services can be readily accessed through mobile applications, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips. The financial burden of transportation can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with a lung cancer diagnosis.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide another avenue. These services, often operated by private companies, offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Brands like American Medical Response (AMR) and CareRide are prominent in the Baltimore area. While these services can be invaluable for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

For residents of Upper Falls considering a move, the availability and efficiency of transportation options should be a key factor. The proximity to major medical centers is a significant advantage, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays necessitates careful planning. The limited public transit options and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services should also be considered.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Upper Falls, therefore, is moderate. While the area benefits from relatively close proximity to excellent medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays introduce challenges. The limited public transit options and the cost of alternative transportation services further complicate the picture.

Ultimately, the ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare is paramount for lung cancer patients. Residents of Upper Falls must carefully weigh the available transportation options, considering their individual needs, financial constraints, and the potential impact of delays on their medical care. This assessment provides a framework for understanding the transportation landscape and its influence on healthcare access, empowering residents to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.