21222, Dundalk, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21222, Dundalk, Maryland is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.50 percent of residents in 21222 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center with a distance of 3.20 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Access to Care in Dundalk (ZIP Code 21222)**

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding immediate and comprehensive care. For residents of Dundalk, Maryland (ZIP code 21222), the journey to that care, the very fabric of their healthcare access, is a complex tapestry woven with threads of transportation options. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a localized assessment of the accessibility of lung cancer treatment facilities, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation methods. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Dundalk or for current residents seeking to understand their access to potentially life-saving treatments.

Dundalk, a vibrant community nestled along the Chesapeake Bay, presents a unique challenge. While the area boasts a strong sense of community, its location, east of Baltimore City, dictates the need for careful consideration of transportation. The "Lung Cancer Score" for 21222 will consider the key factors influencing a patient's ability to reach critical healthcare resources.

**Drive Time and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. From Dundalk, the major arteries to healthcare facilities are primarily Interstate 95 (I-95), the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), and the local roads like Eastern Avenue and Dundalk Avenue. The drive time to the closest comprehensive cancer centers is a critical component of the "Lung Cancer Score."

The Johns Hopkins Hospital, a renowned institution for cancer treatment, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. Taking I-95 South, the route is relatively straightforward, but rush hour congestion can significantly extend travel times. Similarly, the University of Maryland Medical Center, another leading facility, is accessible via I-95 South and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, with drive times also ranging from 20-30 minutes. However, the Baltimore-Washington Parkway can experience significant traffic delays, particularly during peak hours.

Smaller, regional hospitals and outpatient clinics, such as those in the greater Baltimore area, may offer lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and some treatment options. These facilities can be reached via local roads, such as Eastern Avenue, Dundalk Avenue, and Merritt Boulevard. However, access to specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries, often necessitates travel to the larger cancer centers. The "Lung Cancer Score" must factor in these varying drive times and the potential impact of traffic on a patient's ability to receive timely care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City's Veins**

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation is a vital lifeline. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service throughout the Baltimore metropolitan area, including Dundalk. Several bus routes, such as the CityLink Green and the local routes, serve the 21222 ZIP code. These routes connect to the broader public transit network, including the Metro Subway and Light Rail, which provide access to hospitals and cancer centers.

The CityLink Green route, for instance, offers direct access to downtown Baltimore, where many major hospitals are located. However, the frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a barrier. The "Lung Cancer Score" must account for the time spent waiting for buses and the overall travel time, which can be significantly longer than driving.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is paramount. The MTA is committed to providing accessible services, including buses equipped with ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of elevators and accessible pathways at transfer points and hospitals can vary. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability of ADA-compliant features and the overall ease of navigating the public transit system for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Beyond the Traditional**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, which can be particularly useful for appointments and treatments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider the affordability of ride-sharing and its availability in the Dundalk area.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a specialized solution. These services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare and private medical transport companies, provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel. While these services can be more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing, they offer a higher level of care and support, which can be crucial for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability and accessibility of medical transportation services in the 21222 ZIP code.

**The "Lung Cancer Score": A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it's a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access in Dundalk. It considers the following:

* **Drive Time:** Average drive times to major cancer centers, factoring in traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit:** Availability, frequency, and accessibility of MTA bus routes, considering ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The prevalence and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Proximity to Local Clinics:** The presence of local clinics offering screening and supportive care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for lung cancer patients in Dundalk. It will highlight the strengths of the existing transportation infrastructure while also identifying areas for improvement. This information is vital for residents of 21222, especially those considering moving to Dundalk, as it empowers them to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. It also serves as a valuable resource for healthcare providers and policymakers, enabling them to address transportation barriers and ensure that all residents have equitable access to life-saving lung cancer treatment.