21541, Mc Henry, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21541, Mc Henry, Maryland is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.93 percent of residents in 21541 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.13 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 21541

The crisp air of Mc Henry, Maryland, a haven nestled in the heart of Garrett County, offers a picturesque setting. Yet, the beauty of this rural landscape can be deceptive. For residents of ZIP Code 21541, particularly those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity is often juxtaposed with a complex reality: the challenge of **transportation** to and from **healthcare access**. This analysis, a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, delves into the specifics of navigating the medical landscape, offering a critical perspective for those considering **moving to Mc Henry** or seeking care within this community.

The primary consideration is the distance to comprehensive cancer care. The closest facilities offering advanced oncology services are located outside of Garrett County, necessitating travel. The Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland, Maryland, offers some basic cancer care, but for specialized treatments like radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients typically must journey to facilities in Cumberland, Maryland, or Morgantown, West Virginia. These journeys are not mere errands; they are integral parts of a patient’s treatment plan, impacting their physical and emotional well-being.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for residents. From the center of Mc Henry, the drive to Cumberland, home to the Western Maryland Regional Medical Center, covers approximately 60 miles. The most direct route typically involves taking US-219 South, a winding road that offers scenic views but can be challenging in inclement weather. The drive usually takes about an hour and fifteen minutes, but traffic, especially during peak hours or on weekends, can extend this significantly.

Alternatively, patients can utilize I-68 West, a major interstate highway that provides a more direct, albeit slightly longer, route. This option, while offering greater speed, still requires careful planning, considering potential delays due to construction or accidents. The journey to Morgantown, West Virginia, home to the WVU Medicine, Ruby Memorial Hospital, is slightly further, approximately 80 miles, and typically takes around an hour and forty-five minutes via I-68 West. This route is also subject to traffic variations and weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.

Public **transportation** options in this rural area are limited. The Garrett County Transit system offers some services, but these are primarily focused on local routes and may not directly connect to cancer treatment centers in Cumberland or Morgantown. Schedules are often infrequent, and availability can be restricted, making it an unreliable option for regular appointments. ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration, as patients with mobility limitations require vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts. The reliability and accessibility of public transit are thus a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mc Henry area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of these services can also be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments, placing an additional financial burden on patients. Patients should consider the potential for surge pricing during periods of high demand, further complicating their ability to access care.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a crucial lifeline. Companies like MedStar Mobile Healthcare or American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) and ambulance services. These services are particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those requiring assistance during travel. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often necessary, requiring careful planning and coordination.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 21541 must, therefore, consider the challenges of accessing specialized care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport all contribute to a complex landscape. For individuals **moving to Mc Henry** or residing there, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential when evaluating their **healthcare access**.

The physical and emotional toll of battling lung cancer is immense. The added stress of navigating challenging **transportation** logistics can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. The need for frequent trips to and from treatment centers, the potential for delays, and the associated costs all contribute to a lower Lung Cancer Score.

Consider, for instance, the impact of a patient undergoing chemotherapy. The side effects, such as fatigue and nausea, can make driving a significant challenge. Relying on family members or friends for rides can create a strain on their time and resources. The availability of medical transport becomes critical, but the cost can be a barrier.

The Lung Cancer Score must also reflect the availability of support services within the community. Access to support groups, counseling, and palliative care can significantly improve a patient's experience. These services may be available locally, but access to them often requires **transportation**.

The score should also factor in the impact of weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, further complicating access to care. The potential for road closures or delays can significantly disrupt treatment schedules.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 21541 is not simply a measure of distance. It is a complex assessment of the barriers to **healthcare access** faced by individuals battling this disease. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport all contribute to a challenging environment. For those **moving to Mc Henry** or seeking care within this community, a thorough understanding of these factors is paramount. The score serves as a critical tool, highlighting the need for improved **transportation** options, increased support services, and a greater focus on patient-centered care within this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, region.