21619, Chester, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21619, Chester, Maryland is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.39 percent of residents in 21619 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center, Inc with a distance of 13.84 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21619

The decision to relocate, especially when facing a health concern like lung cancer, necessitates a meticulous evaluation of healthcare access. For those considering a move to Chester, Maryland (ZIP Code 21619), this analysis delves into the complexities of transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services. This 'Lung Cancer Score' considers drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape.

The primary focus is on optimizing transportation to specialist appointments, radiation therapy, chemotherapy infusions, and other essential cancer care services. The goal is to quantify the ease and efficiency of getting from your doorstep to the treatment center, recognizing that every minute saved can translate to reduced stress and improved quality of life. This analysis emphasizes the practical aspects of navigating the healthcare system, providing insights that are crucial for informed decision-making.

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

Chester, nestled on Maryland's Eastern Shore, offers a relatively rural environment. While this provides a sense of tranquility, it also influences transportation dynamics. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are Maryland Route 50 (US-50), the major east-west artery, and Route 8, which provides north-south connectivity.

Driving to the University of Maryland Shore Regional Health at Easton (UM Shore Medical Center at Easton), a major regional healthcare provider, is a common destination for residents of 21619. The drive typically involves heading west on Route 50. The distance is approximately 20 miles, and under optimal traffic conditions, the drive time is around 30-40 minutes. However, rush hour congestion, particularly during weekday commutes, can significantly extend this travel time.

Another important destination is the Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, a larger hospital with a comprehensive cancer center. This drive involves traversing Route 50 west, across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and then navigating the Annapolis traffic. This journey is roughly 45 miles and can take between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the time of day. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge, while offering stunning views, can become a significant bottleneck, particularly during peak travel periods and weekends.

For residents seeking specialized oncology services, Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore is a highly regarded option. This trip requires traveling west on Route 50, connecting to the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) or Interstate 97 (I-97) to access the city. The distance is approximately 60-70 miles, and the drive time can vary from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, again dependent on traffic. The Baltimore-Washington Parkway and I-97 can experience heavy congestion, especially during rush hour, which can significantly impact travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in 21619 are limited. The Queen Anne's County Department of Transportation (QACDOT) offers local bus services, but their routes and schedules may not be directly tailored to healthcare access. These buses generally operate within Queen Anne's County and may not provide direct routes to major medical centers outside the county.

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides regional bus service, but the routes serving the Eastern Shore are limited. There are no direct MTA bus routes from Chester to Easton, Annapolis, or Baltimore. This makes relying solely on public transit for healthcare appointments challenging.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. QACDOT and MTA buses are required to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring that vehicles are equipped with ramps or lifts and that drivers are trained to assist passengers with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and routing of public transit options can still pose challenges for those requiring accessible transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 21619. However, their availability and pricing can vary depending on demand and the time of day. Securing a ride for appointments, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning, may require advance planning. Ride-sharing can be a convenient option for shorter trips or when other transportation alternatives are unavailable.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. Companies like MedStar Mobile Healthcare and other private medical transportation providers offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel, and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services often require pre-booking and may involve higher costs compared to ride-sharing or public transit.

**The 'Lung Cancer Score' and Moving to Chester**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for 21619, based on the above analysis, suggests a moderate level of healthcare access. While drive times to major medical centers can be manageable, they are subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing availability can be unpredictable. Medical transport services offer a viable solution, but they come with associated costs and require pre-planning.

For individuals considering a move to Chester, this score highlights the importance of careful consideration. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the potential need for medical transport services are crucial factors to weigh. Prioritizing a location with easy access to Route 50 and considering the potential impact of traffic congestion are important considerations.

This analysis is not intended to discourage anyone from moving to Chester. Instead, it aims to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, individuals can make informed decisions and proactively plan for their healthcare needs. The key is to be prepared, explore all available options, and ensure that transportation is not a barrier to receiving timely and appropriate medical care.