21237, Rosedale, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21237, Rosedale, Maryland is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.92 percent of residents in 21237 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Franklin Square Medical Center with a distance of 1.04 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 21237

The quest for accessible healthcare, especially for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, necessitates a deep understanding of the transportation landscape. This write-up analyzes the transportation options available to residents of ZIP Code 21237, a region encompassing parts of Rosedale, Maryland, and assesses their impact on healthcare access, particularly concerning lung cancer treatment. We will evaluate drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical facilities. This analysis is especially pertinent for individuals considering moving to Rosedale, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and effective care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical assessment but a practical metric reflecting the challenges and advantages of accessing lung cancer-related healthcare in this specific area. It considers factors like proximity to hospitals, specialist availability, and the efficiency of available transportation methods. A higher score indicates greater ease of access.

**Driving to Healthcare: Navigating the Roadways**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option, however, is contingent on several factors, including traffic congestion, road conditions, and the distance to healthcare facilities. From 21237, the most direct routes to major hospitals often involve navigating the complex web of highways and roads.

The journey to the University of Maryland Medical Center in downtown Baltimore, a major cancer treatment center, typically involves using the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) and then navigating the city streets. During peak hours, this commute can easily stretch beyond 45 minutes, a significant time commitment for someone undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms. The alternative route, utilizing US-1 (Belair Road) and then connecting to other major arteries, may offer some relief from Beltway congestion, but it also involves dealing with numerous traffic lights and potential delays.

Johns Hopkins Hospital, another renowned healthcare institution, is accessible via the Beltway and I-95. This route, though generally faster than the downtown option, still faces the potential for heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour. For residents in the eastern parts of 21237, the drive to Franklin Square Hospital Center, located in the Woodlawn area, might offer a more convenient option. This journey primarily involves using I-695 and requires less reliance on navigating city streets.

**Public Transit: A Network of Possibilities**

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service throughout the region, offering a potential solution for healthcare access. Several bus routes serve the 21237 area, including the 19, 22, and 23, which connect to various points within Baltimore City and County.

The 19 route, for instance, travels along Belair Road, offering a direct link to downtown Baltimore and potential access to hospitals. The 22 and 23 routes also provide access to healthcare facilities, but their routes and schedules must be carefully considered to ensure they align with appointments and treatment needs.

The MTA also operates the Metro Subway, which provides a more rapid transit option, although its reach is limited within the 21237 area. Residents would likely need to utilize a bus route to connect to a Metro station. The Subway's accessibility features, including elevators and ramps, are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), making it a viable option for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Specialized Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are unable to drive or who need assistance with transportation. However, the cost of these services can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services specialize in providing transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including help with entering and exiting vehicles, and may accommodate specialized equipment like wheelchairs or oxygen tanks. Companies like Logisticare and Access Transportation are common providers in the Baltimore area. While these services can be invaluable, they often require prior scheduling and may involve waiting times.

**Assessing the "Lung Cancer Score"**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 21237, specifically concerning lung cancer healthcare access, presents a mixed picture. The area benefits from its proximity to several major hospitals and cancer treatment centers. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion, can significantly impact travel times.

Public transportation offers an alternative, but its effectiveness depends on the specific bus routes and schedules, as well as the individual's mobility limitations. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provide specialized solutions, but they come with associated costs and scheduling requirements.

The overall score is moderately favorable. Residents of 21237 have access to quality healthcare, but the ease of access is somewhat dependent on the individual's ability to navigate the transportation landscape. This situation underscores the importance of careful planning, exploring all available options, and potentially considering proximity to healthcare facilities when making decisions, especially for those considering moving to Rosedale.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Rosedale (21237) and concerned about lung cancer healthcare access, a comprehensive assessment of transportation options is crucial. While the area offers access to quality medical facilities, the challenges of navigating traffic, public transit schedules, and the costs of ride-sharing services must be carefully weighed.

Understanding the intricacies of the transportation network, including drive times, public transit routes, and the availability of specialized medical transportation, is essential for ensuring timely and effective healthcare. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about proximity to hospitals, but also about the ability to reach them efficiently and affordably. By proactively exploring all available options, residents of 21237 can navigate the path to healthcare with greater confidence and peace of mind.