21252, Towson, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21252, Towson, Maryland is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.65 percent of residents in 21252 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md St Joseph Medical Center with a distance of 0.53 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 21252

Considering a move to Towson, Maryland, ZIP code 21252? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a hypothetical metric assessing the ease of accessing lung cancer-related healthcare services. This score considers transportation options, crucial for timely diagnoses and treatments. The goal is to illuminate the practicalities of accessing specialized medical care, a significant factor in a community’s health and well-being.

This score isn't a definitive health prognosis, but a practical guide. It considers the distance and time required to reach key healthcare facilities, emphasizing the role of transportation in healthcare access. The score will range from 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 10 the easiest.

**The Score Components:**

* **Drive Time:** This component evaluates the time required to reach hospitals and cancer centers by car.
* **Public Transportation:** This assesses the availability and accessibility of public transit options, including bus routes and their ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** This examines the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Driving is a primary mode of transportation in 21252. Residents often rely on personal vehicles for healthcare access. The proximity to major roadways significantly impacts drive times.

* **The Johns Hopkins Hospital (JHH):** Located in Baltimore City, JHH is a leading cancer treatment center. Driving from 21252 to JHH typically involves navigating the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) and then either the Jones Falls Expressway (I-83) or local roads. During peak hours, traffic congestion on I-695 and I-83 can extend travel times. The drive can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

* **University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC):** Another prominent cancer treatment facility, UMMC, is also in Baltimore City. The route involves the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) and then either I-83 or local roads. Travel times are similar to JHH, potentially impacted by traffic. Expect a 25 to 50-minute drive, depending on traffic conditions.

* **Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC):** GBMC is a closer option, located in Towson. Driving involves local roads like York Road and Dulaney Valley Road. The drive is typically shorter, ranging from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location within 21252.

* **MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center:** Located in Baltimore County, this hospital is accessible via the Baltimore Beltway (I-695). The drive time is approximately 20 to 35 minutes, dependent on traffic.

**Public Transportation Analysis:**

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service in the area.

* **Bus Routes:** Several MTA bus routes serve 21252, including routes 3, 8, 11, and 12. These routes provide access to major roads like York Road and Dulaney Valley Road. However, direct routes to major hospitals may be limited. Transfers may be required, increasing travel time.

* **ADA Accessibility:** The MTA strives to ensure ADA compliance. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts. However, the availability of accessible bus stops and the overall travel time can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

* **Travel Times:** Bus travel times are significantly longer than driving. A trip to JHH or UMMC could take 60 to 90 minutes or more, including transfers and potential delays. Travel to GBMC via bus would be shorter, approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Analysis:**

Ride-sharing services and specialized medical transportation options provide additional transportation solutions.

* **Ride-Sharing Services:** Uber and Lyft are readily available in 21252. These services offer convenient door-to-door transportation. However, costs can vary, particularly during peak hours.

* **Medical Transportation:** Several medical transportation companies operate in the area, including CareRide and MedStar Mobile Healthcare. These services cater to individuals with specific medical needs, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Costs are typically higher than ride-sharing services.

**Lung Cancer Score Calculation:**

The Lung Cancer Score will be calculated based on a weighted average of the three components. Drive time will be weighted most heavily, given its prevalence. Public transportation and ride-sharing/medical transportation will receive equal weight.

* **Drive Time:** (Weighted 50%) The average drive time to the three major hospitals (JHH, UMMC, and GBMC) will be assessed. Shorter drive times will contribute to a higher score.

* **Public Transportation:** (Weighted 25%) The frequency and accessibility of bus routes, including ADA compliance, will be considered. More frequent and accessible routes will result in a higher score.

* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transportation:** (Weighted 25%) The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services will be evaluated. Greater availability and reasonable costs will contribute to a higher score.

**Preliminary Lung Cancer Score for 21252:**

Based on the initial analysis, the Lung Cancer Score for 21252 is estimated to be **6 out of 10**. This score reflects the following:

* **Strengths:** Proximity to GBMC and the availability of ride-sharing services.
* **Weaknesses:** Longer drive times to JHH and UMMC, and the limitations of public transportation.

**Moving to Towson Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Towson, particularly those with lung cancer or at high risk, the Lung Cancer Score provides valuable insights. The score highlights the importance of access to transportation for healthcare. Consider factors like proximity to hospitals, traffic patterns, and reliance on public transit.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score offers a preliminary assessment of healthcare access in 21252. While the score indicates reasonable access to care, individuals should carefully consider their transportation needs and preferences. This analysis emphasizes the critical role of transportation in healthcare access, particularly for those facing lung cancer challenges. Further investigation, including personal preferences and medical needs, is always recommended.