21561, Swanton, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21561, Swanton, Maryland is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.68 percent of residents in 21561 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Garrett Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.09 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Swanton, MD (ZIP Code 21561)

The crisp mountain air of Swanton, Maryland, offers a scenic respite, but the reality of healthcare access for residents in ZIP Code 21561 presents a complex landscape, especially for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up delves into the transportation challenges and opportunities, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" to illuminate the journey from diagnosis to treatment. We'll explore the vital connections between transportation and healthcare access, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Swanton or seeking to understand the healthcare landscape within this rural community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, considering the layers of difficulty patients encounter. It acknowledges the emotional and physical toll of a lung cancer diagnosis, the urgency of treatment, and the critical need for reliable transportation. This score evaluates the accessibility of healthcare, considering the various transportation methods available. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals navigating the healthcare system in Swanton.

The primary challenge for residents of 21561 is the geographical isolation. Swanton, nestled in Garrett County, is surrounded by vast stretches of natural beauty, but this remoteness translates to limited healthcare options within the immediate vicinity. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer treatment centers are located in larger towns and cities, requiring significant travel. This reliance on transportation is a critical component of the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries to Care**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Swanton is personal vehicle. The drive times, however, significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score." The primary routes involve navigating the winding roads and scenic highways of Western Maryland.

To reach the closest hospital, Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland, MD, the drive is approximately 20-30 minutes. This seems manageable, but consider the unpredictable weather conditions common in the mountains, particularly during winter. Snow and ice can significantly extend travel times, increasing the risk for patients.

For specialized cancer treatment, patients typically need to travel further. The drive to WVU Medicine's Cancer Institute in Morgantown, West Virginia, a major regional cancer center, is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey involves navigating US-219 and I-68, two major arteries connecting Swanton to the larger medical facilities.

Another option is to travel to UPMC Western Maryland in Cumberland, MD. This journey requires navigating MD-135 and I-68, and the drive time is approximately 1 hour. These longer distances, coupled with the potential for inclement weather and the physical demands of cancer treatment, contribute significantly to the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Garrett County are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The county's public transit system, operated by Garrett County Transportation, provides bus services, but the routes and schedules are infrequent and primarily designed for general transportation needs, not specialized medical appointments.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. While Garrett County Transportation strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency and route coverage may not adequately address the needs of lung cancer patients requiring frequent medical appointments.

Furthermore, the lack of direct routes to major cancer treatment centers adds another layer of complexity. Patients relying on public transit may need to combine bus travel with other transportation methods, such as taxis or ride-sharing services, to reach their appointments. This adds to the travel time, cost, and overall stress, further influencing the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Garrett County, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas like Swanton. The reliability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is a significant concern for patients needing timely transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare or American Medical Response (AMR), offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services can provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access.

The availability of these alternative transportation options is a crucial element of the "Lung Cancer Score." While they offer potential solutions, their reliability, cost, and accessibility remain significant factors influencing the overall healthcare experience for lung cancer patients in Swanton.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in Context: A Holistic View**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Swanton (21561) reflects the complex interplay of geographic isolation, limited public transit, and the challenges of relying on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. The score is not a simple metric but a holistic assessment of the barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Swanton, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. While the beauty of the area and the welcoming community are undeniable, the practical realities of accessing healthcare must be carefully considered.

For lung cancer patients, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need for proactive planning and support. This includes:

* **Careful consideration of treatment options:** Exploring the availability of local resources and the feasibility of traveling to specialized centers.
* **Developing a robust transportation plan:** Identifying reliable transportation options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.
* **Seeking support from family, friends, and community organizations:** Building a network of support to assist with transportation and other needs.
* **Advocating for improved healthcare access:** Supporting initiatives to expand public transit options and increase the availability of medical services in the area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is not just about medical expertise; it's also about the ability to navigate the logistical complexities of transportation. In Swanton, the journey to healthcare is often a challenging one, but with careful planning, community support, and a focus on improving transportation options, individuals can overcome these obstacles and receive the care they need. The journey through lung cancer is arduous enough; simplifying transportation is a vital step in easing the burden.