21229, Baltimore, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21229, Baltimore, Maryland is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.70 percent of residents in 21229 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Agnes Hospital with a distance of 1.42 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 21229

The decision to move to Baltimore, especially when considering healthcare access, demands careful consideration. For residents of ZIP Code 21229, the specter of lung cancer necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation options to medical facilities. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer specialists and treatment centers from this specific geographic area. It considers drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access, especially for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer.

ZIP Code 21229, encompassing parts of Southwest Baltimore, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295), Interstate 95 (I-95), and the local thoroughfares like Washington Boulevard and Hollins Ferry Road. Drive times to major medical centers, such as the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) and Johns Hopkins Hospital, become pivotal when considering lung cancer treatment.

During peak traffic, a drive to UMMC from 21229, utilizing the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and then Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, could take 30-45 minutes. This timeframe can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day and potential traffic incidents. Similarly, accessing Johns Hopkins Hospital, often requiring a route via I-95 and then local streets, could take 40-60 minutes, again subject to traffic congestion. These drive times are critical for patients needing frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with its own challenges. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service throughout the area. Several bus routes, including the 13, 71, and 78, serve areas within or near 21229, offering potential connections to hospitals and medical facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during off-peak hours, can be a limiting factor.

The MTA also offers ADA-accessible buses, which are essential for patients with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on public transit can significantly increase travel times. A bus trip to UMMC, for example, might involve a combination of bus routes and transfers, potentially extending the journey to over an hour, even without considering wait times. This extended travel time can be particularly burdensome for individuals experiencing fatigue or other side effects of lung cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide another option. Their availability in 21229 is generally good, offering on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent visits. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing can be affected by driver availability, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by MedStar Mobile Healthcare or private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with mobility and carrying medical equipment. While offering a more convenient option, these services typically come at a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 21229 must therefore reflect the multifaceted nature of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The score should acknowledge the drive times, the limitations of public transit, the cost and reliability of ride-sharing, and the specialized services offered by medical transport companies. It should also consider the patient's individual needs, including their mobility, financial resources, and the frequency of required medical appointments.

For individuals considering moving to Baltimore, especially those with a history of or risk factors for lung cancer, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential. Choosing a location with convenient access to healthcare is crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for assessing the accessibility of lung cancer specialists and treatment centers, enabling informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.

Evaluating healthcare access requires a comprehensive approach. The ease of transportation directly impacts the ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Delays in accessing treatment can have significant consequences for lung cancer patients. Therefore, the "Lung Cancer Score" aims to provide a practical assessment of transportation options, empowering residents of 21229 to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

When considering moving to Baltimore, particularly in the context of lung cancer, the availability and accessibility of transportation become paramount. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably is a critical factor in treatment outcomes. The "Lung Cancer Score" seeks to illuminate these factors, providing a valuable tool for residents and prospective residents in 21229.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a guide, enabling individuals to assess the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access in 21229. It highlights the importance of considering transportation options when making decisions about healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of lung cancer.