21523, Bloomington, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21523, Bloomington, Maryland is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.79 percent of residents in 21523 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 17.97 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 21523

This analysis unveils the complexities of accessing lung cancer healthcare within ZIP Code 21523, focusing on transportation options and their impact on a patient’s journey. Understanding these nuances is crucial for residents facing a diagnosis and those considering moving to Bloomington, Indiana, seeking optimal healthcare access. The score reflects the ease and challenges presented by the transportation landscape.

The cornerstone of any lung cancer treatment plan is timely access to specialized medical care. In 21523, this translates into navigating the network of roads and public transit to reach the primary healthcare providers. The score will consider drive times, public transportation availability, and alternative options like ride-sharing and medical transport services.

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

The primary thoroughfare serving 21523 is the I-69. This interstate highway is a critical artery for accessing healthcare facilities in Bloomington and surrounding areas. Driving times, however, are highly variable, influenced by traffic congestion, construction, and weather conditions.

A typical drive to the Indiana University Health Bloomington Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from various points within 21523, can range from 15 to 30 minutes under ideal conditions. The route typically involves taking the I-69 South. The US-37, a parallel route, provides an alternative, though often slower, option, particularly during peak hours.

Other roads, like State Road 45 and State Road 46, offer access to smaller clinics and specialist offices. These routes, while potentially shorter in distance, may involve more stop-and-go traffic and slower speeds, impacting overall travel time. The efficiency of the transportation network is a critical factor.

The drive time to Indianapolis, home to advanced cancer centers, can extend to over an hour, depending on traffic. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing side effects. The ability to readily access specialized care is a critical aspect of the overall healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus System**

The Bloomington Transit (BT) system offers public transportation within the city and surrounding areas. Several bus routes serve the 21523 ZIP code, providing access to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes can be a significant factor.

Route 1, for example, often connects residential areas within 21523 to the downtown area, where many medical offices are located. Route 3, which also serves the area, provides access to the IU Health Bloomington Hospital. The bus schedules, however, may not align perfectly with appointment times, requiring careful planning and potentially longer travel times.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. All Bloomington Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. The availability of accessible transportation is essential for ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents.

The BT system’s limitations include the potential for longer travel times compared to driving and the reliance on fixed routes and schedules. These factors can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue or other physical limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option in 21523. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, offer another solution. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services may have limited availability and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The availability of these alternative transportation options can significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not drive or have limited access to personal vehicles. The integration of these services into the broader transportation network is a critical factor.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for 21523 is a composite measure, considering drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of alternative transportation options. It is not a single number but rather a nuanced assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access.

The score is influenced by factors such as the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of the road network, the frequency and coverage of public transit routes, and the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

A higher score indicates greater ease of access to healthcare, while a lower score reflects more significant challenges. The score is dynamic, as transportation infrastructure and service availability evolve.

**Moving to Bloomington: A Transportation Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Bloomington, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. 21523 offers a mix of transportation options, but careful consideration of individual needs and preferences is essential.

The proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing services are all important factors. The ability to drive and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care centers in Indianapolis should also be considered.

Choosing a location within 21523 that offers convenient access to healthcare facilities and transportation options can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The ability to navigate the transportation network efficiently is a critical aspect of the overall healthcare experience.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Accessing lung cancer healthcare in 21523 involves a complex interplay of transportation options. The drive times, public transit availability, and alternative services all play a role in shaping the patient's journey. The score, therefore, reflects the need for careful planning and the importance of considering individual needs and preferences. Understanding these complexities is crucial for residents facing a diagnosis and for those considering moving to Bloomington, seeking optimal healthcare access. The continuous improvement of transportation infrastructure and services is vital to ensure equitable healthcare access for all.