21632, Federalsburg, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21632, Federalsburg, Maryland is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.62 percent of residents in 21632 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Center At Easton with a distance of 16.91 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Federalsburg, MD (ZIP Code 21632)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and decisive action. For residents of Federalsburg, Maryland (ZIP Code 21632), understanding the accessibility of quality healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, is paramount. This write-up delves into the complexities of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** within and surrounding this community, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the realities of navigating a potentially life-altering journey. Considering **moving to Federalsburg**? This assessment is crucial.

Federalsburg, a small town nestled in Caroline County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. Proximity to larger medical centers is a critical factor, as is the availability of diverse **transportation** alternatives. The goal is to illuminate the landscape, providing residents and potential newcomers with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The primary hurdle for Federalsburg residents is the relative lack of immediate access to comprehensive medical facilities. While the town itself may offer primary care physicians and limited outpatient services, specialized care, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and advanced imaging capabilities, typically necessitates travel. This reliance on external resources underscores the importance of efficient and reliable **transportation** networks.

**Drive-Time Dynamics: The Road Ahead**

The most common mode of **transportation** for Federalsburg residents is the personal vehicle. The primary arteries connecting Federalsburg to larger medical hubs are US Route 50 and Maryland Route 313. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic, time of day, and the destination.

For instance, Easton, Maryland, a town boasting a hospital with some specialized services, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via US Route 50. This route, a major east-west corridor, can experience congestion during peak commuting hours, potentially extending travel times. Cambridge, Maryland, another potential destination for medical care, is roughly a 40-55 minute drive, also primarily utilizing US Route 50.

Baltimore, a major metropolitan area with numerous world-class hospitals, including the Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center, is a significantly longer journey, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours via US Route 50 and US Route 97 or I-97. This longer travel time underscores the importance of early detection and prompt access to care, as any delay can have serious consequences.

Dover, Delaware, another potential destination for certain medical services, is approximately a 1-hour drive, primarily via Maryland Route 313 and Delaware Route 1. The condition of these roads, while generally well-maintained, can impact travel times, particularly during inclement weather.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Federalsburg are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. This lack of accessibility disproportionately affects seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While the Caroline County Department of Aging offers some **transportation** services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, these services are often limited in scope and may require advance booking. The availability of these services is also contingent on funding and staffing, which can fluctuate.

The absence of a comprehensive public **transportation** network highlights the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges faced by those without access to them. This limitation significantly impacts **healthcare access**, particularly for those requiring frequent medical appointments or emergency care.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Federalsburg, but their reliability and cost can vary. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas, is not always guaranteed. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for individuals with limited incomes, further exacerbating **healthcare access** disparities.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private companies, are available but can be expensive. These services often cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or those who need specialized medical **transportation** to and from appointments. While they provide a crucial service, the cost can be a significant burden for many.

The availability of these alternative **transportation** options offers a degree of flexibility, but they are not a substitute for a robust and affordable public transit system. They serve as a vital bridge, but their limitations must be acknowledged.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Critical Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Federalsburg, MD (ZIP Code 21632) is a composite measure reflecting the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare services. It considers factors such as drive times to specialized facilities, the availability of public transit, the reliability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation**, and the presence of local resources.

Considering the factors discussed, Federalsburg receives a moderate Lung Cancer Score. The primary strengths are the relatively short drive times to some medical facilities, particularly those in Easton and Cambridge. However, the limited public transit options and the potential cost and unreliability of ride-sharing services significantly diminish the score. The longer drive times to major medical centers in Baltimore and Dover also pose a challenge.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate, with varying travel times to different medical centers.
* **Public Transit:** Limited, creating significant barriers to **healthcare access**.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability is variable, and cost can be a concern.
* **Medical Transport:** Available but expensive.
* **Local Resources:** Limited local resources for specialized lung cancer care.

**Recommendations:**

* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Increased investment in public **transportation** is crucial to enhance **healthcare access** for all residents.
* **Explore partnerships with ride-sharing services:** Negotiating discounted rates or subsidized **transportation** programs could improve affordability.
* **Promote telehealth initiatives:** Expanding access to telehealth services can reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for follow-up care.
* **Support local healthcare providers:** Encourage the expansion of specialized services within the community.
* **Educate residents:** Raising awareness about lung cancer screening and early detection is essential.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For residents of Federalsburg, Maryland, understanding the complexities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** is critical, particularly when facing the challenges of lung cancer. While the community offers certain advantages, the limitations in public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles pose significant hurdles.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for residents and potential newcomers, providing a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape. By acknowledging the challenges and advocating for improvements, the community can work towards ensuring that all residents have access to the timely and effective care they deserve. The journey through lung cancer is arduous, but with informed choices and a commitment to improved **transportation** and **healthcare access**, Federalsburg can strive to provide its residents with the best possible chance of survival and well-being. Consider this carefully if you are **moving to Federalsburg**.