21531, Friendsville, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21531, Friendsville, Maryland is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.40 percent of residents in 21531 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 17.19 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Friendsville, Maryland (ZIP Code 21531)

The air in Friendsville, Maryland, nestled amidst the Allegheny Mountains, carries a certain crispness, a promise of clean living. Yet, even in this idyllic setting, the specter of lung cancer looms, a reminder that healthcare access, particularly for specialized treatments, is a critical consideration. This analysis, our “Lung Cancer Score,” examines the transportation landscape in and around ZIP Code 21531, evaluating the ease with which residents can access the healthcare they might need, should they face a diagnosis. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking timely and effective care.

The foundation of healthcare access in Friendsville rests on the ability to travel. For residents, the primary mode of transportation is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The rural nature of the area dictates this reality. The major artery connecting Friendsville to broader healthcare resources is Maryland Route 42, a winding road that snakes its way through the mountainous terrain. Heading east, Route 42 connects with Interstate 68, a crucial link to larger cities and hospitals.

The drive time to healthcare is, therefore, a significant factor in our Lung Cancer Score. The closest hospitals capable of treating lung cancer are located in Cumberland, Maryland, approximately 45 miles east. The drive, primarily on I-68, typically takes around an hour, assuming favorable traffic conditions. However, winter weather can be a significant impediment. Snow and ice, common in the mountains, can drastically increase travel times and pose safety risks. This potential for delay significantly impacts the score, as timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care is paramount in lung cancer management.

Further afield, the city of Morgantown, West Virginia, offers additional healthcare options. The drive to Morgantown, primarily via I-68 West, is also approximately an hour. This provides some flexibility in healthcare choices, but it doesn’t alleviate the fundamental reliance on personal vehicles and the inherent limitations of rural transportation. The score reflects this geographical constraint, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and planning for medical appointments.

Public transportation options in Friendsville are extremely limited. The Garrett County Transit system provides some service within the county, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed for medical transport. The routes are infrequent, with limited evening and weekend service, and do not connect directly to hospitals in Cumberland or Morgantown. This lack of robust public transit significantly diminishes the Lung Cancer Score, especially for individuals who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility of the Garrett County Transit system is a crucial consideration. While the system is mandated to comply with ADA regulations, the rural nature of the routes and the limited frequency of service can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. This further underscores the importance of alternative transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is sporadic and often unreliable in rural areas. The availability of drivers is highly dependent on demand and can be significantly limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This lack of consistent ride-sharing access further lowers the Lung Cancer Score. The reliance on ride-sharing also adds a financial burden, as fares can be substantial, particularly for long-distance trips to healthcare facilities.

Medical transport services are a vital component of the healthcare ecosystem, especially for patients with mobility issues or those requiring specialized care. Several medical transport companies serve the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other treatments. However, the cost of medical transport can be significant, and insurance coverage may vary. This financial burden impacts the Lung Cancer Score, highlighting the importance of understanding insurance benefits and exploring financial assistance options.

The availability of medical transport services also raises questions about the time it takes to secure a ride. The response time of an ambulance or a non-emergency medical transport vehicle can be affected by the distance to the patient's location and the availability of vehicles. This potential for delay is a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score, as timely access to care is essential for optimal outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Friendsville, the Lung Cancer Score offers a crucial insight into the challenges of healthcare access. The score emphasizes the importance of assessing personal transportation needs, understanding the limitations of public transit, and exploring alternative options like ride-sharing and medical transport services. It also underscores the importance of having a support network, including family, friends, or community organizations, to assist with transportation and other healthcare-related needs.

The healthcare landscape in Friendsville is not without its strengths. The proximity to hospitals in Cumberland and Morgantown, while requiring travel, offers access to a range of medical specialists and advanced treatment options. The community, while small, often demonstrates a strong sense of mutual support, which can be invaluable for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 21531 reflects the realities of rural healthcare access. While the natural beauty of Friendsville is undeniable, the challenges of transportation, particularly for those with health needs, are significant. The score highlights the importance of careful planning, proactive communication with healthcare providers, and a strong support system. The score is a reminder that while the air may be clean, the journey to healthcare can be complex, demanding careful consideration for residents and those considering moving to Friendsville.