21550, Oakland, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21550, Oakland, Maryland is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.82 percent of residents in 21550 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.38 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Oakland, MD (ZIP Code 21550)

The crisp mountain air of Oakland, Maryland (ZIP Code 21550) offers a tranquil setting, a place where the rustling leaves of autumn paint the landscape in vibrant hues. However, for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity of this community is intertwined with the practicalities of healthcare access. This write-up assesses the Lung Cancer Score, a metric considering the challenges of **transportation** to treatment facilities, particularly for residents who may be experiencing physical limitations. This is crucial information for anyone **moving to Oakland**, or already residing there, and facing the complexities of **healthcare access**.

The Lung Cancer Score will be calculated by considering several factors. These include the distance to the nearest oncology centers, the availability and efficiency of various **transportation** options, and the overall accessibility of these options for patients with mobility issues. This score will help residents understand the potential hurdles they might face in accessing life-saving treatments.

The primary healthcare facility serving Oakland is Garrett Regional Medical Center, located in the town itself. While this provides a crucial base for initial assessments and some treatments, it is essential to understand the limitations of its oncology services. For more specialized care, patients often need to travel to larger facilities, such as those in Morgantown, West Virginia, or Cumberland, Maryland.

The most common mode of **transportation** for medical appointments is the personal vehicle. From Oakland, the drive to Morgantown, WV, involves navigating Interstate 68 West. The drive is approximately 60 miles and takes about an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather in the mountains can significantly impact travel times.

Alternatively, the drive to Cumberland, MD, is approximately 50 miles and takes around an hour via US Route 219 South and Interstate 68 East. This route also requires navigating mountain roads, and the same weather-related concerns apply. Both routes offer scenic views, but the beauty of the landscape should not overshadow the potential stress of the commute, especially for patients undergoing treatment.

Public **transportation** options in Oakland are limited. The Garrett County Transit System (GCTS) provides bus service within the county, but its routes and schedules may not be directly tailored to medical appointments. The GCTS does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is crucial for patients with mobility challenges. However, the frequency of service and the potential for transfers could significantly increase travel times. The GCTS also operates on a demand-response basis, meaning riders need to schedule rides in advance.

The nearest public **transportation** hub with more extensive connections is in Cumberland, MD. The Greyhound bus station offers intercity travel. However, this option requires a drive to Cumberland and may involve long wait times and transfers, which can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Oakland, but their reliability and availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. During peak hours or in inclement weather, wait times can be extended, and the cost of the ride may increase. Furthermore, patients may require specialized assistance getting in and out of vehicles, which ride-share drivers are not always equipped to provide.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the area. These services typically provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like Logisticare and Modivcare often contract with insurance providers to offer these services. However, the availability of NEMT can vary depending on insurance coverage and the patient's specific needs. Booking these services requires advance planning, and scheduling conflicts can arise.

The Lung Cancer Score for Oakland, MD (ZIP Code 21550) reflects the interplay of these factors. The score will be lower for those who have reliable access to a personal vehicle and can drive themselves or have a caregiver to drive them. The score will be higher for those who rely on public **transportation**, ride-sharing, or medical **transportation**, as these options may involve longer travel times, increased costs, and potential delays.

For patients who are **moving to Oakland** and have a lung cancer diagnosis or are at high risk, it is crucial to research the **transportation** options available and to establish a plan for accessing medical care. This plan should include identifying the nearest oncology centers, understanding the travel times and routes, and determining the availability of **transportation** services.

The score also considers the patient's physical condition. Those with mobility issues, such as difficulty walking or using stairs, will face additional challenges. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, the presence of ramps and elevators at medical facilities, and the assistance provided by medical **transportation** services are all important considerations.

The Lung Cancer Score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experience of patients navigating the healthcare system. It highlights the importance of community support, the role of family and friends in providing **transportation** assistance, and the need for accessible and affordable healthcare services.

The score also underscores the importance of proactive planning. Patients should discuss their **transportation** needs with their healthcare providers, insurance companies, and social workers. They should explore all available options and develop a contingency plan in case of unforeseen circumstances.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Oakland, MD (ZIP Code 21550) emphasizes the importance of understanding the **transportation** challenges faced by patients. While the town offers a peaceful setting, the realities of **healthcare access** require careful consideration. For those **moving to Oakland** or already residing there, the score serves as a reminder of the importance of planning, preparation, and community support in navigating the journey through lung cancer treatment. The goal is to ensure that all residents have the best possible chance of receiving timely and effective care, regardless of their **transportation** limitations.