21645, Kennedyville, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21645, Kennedyville, Maryland is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.17 percent of residents in 21645 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Ctr At Chestertown with a distance of 10.35 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kennedyville (ZIP Code 21645)

The picturesque town of Kennedyville, nestled in Kent County, Maryland (ZIP Code 21645), offers a tranquil escape, but its rural setting presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those concerned about lung cancer. This write-up, designed to inform potential residents and existing community members, will assess the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing vital diagnostic and treatment services. Our focus will be on the practicalities of getting to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a subjective assessment reflecting the ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare system, with a particular emphasis on lung cancer care.

The primary concern for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to specialized care. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improved outcomes. In Kennedyville, this translates to understanding the available transportation options to reach medical facilities equipped to handle lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the complexity of these journeys.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in Kennedyville. The town is primarily served by **Maryland Route 213 (Millington Road)**, which connects to the broader highway network. To access the closest major medical centers, residents will likely need to travel to Chestertown or Elkton.

The drive to **University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown**, approximately 15 miles from Kennedyville, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The route primarily involves taking **Maryland Route 213** south and then turning onto **Maryland Route 20**. This drive is generally straightforward, but potential delays can arise during peak hours or due to seasonal traffic, especially during the summer months when tourists flock to the Eastern Shore.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to **Union Hospital of Cecil County** in Elkton, approximately 35 miles from Kennedyville. The journey involves taking **Maryland Route 213** north, merging onto **Maryland Route 299**, and then connecting to **Maryland Route 279**. The drive time is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute adds to the stress and potential challenges for individuals requiring frequent appointments or treatments.

Navigating these routes necessitates careful planning. Consider the potential impact of inclement weather, which can significantly increase travel times and make driving more hazardous. The availability of reliable transportation is crucial for anyone considering moving to Kennedyville or already residing there, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

Public transportation options in Kent County are limited. The **Kent County Transit (KCT)** provides bus services, but these are primarily designed for local travel and may not offer direct routes to major medical facilities. KCT operates on a fixed-route system, and the frequency of service is limited, making it a less practical option for many healthcare appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive aspect, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and infrequent schedules significantly impact its usefulness for those needing to access specialized lung cancer care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Relying on ride-sharing for critical healthcare needs requires careful consideration of potential delays, cost, and the availability of drivers.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, may be an option for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services often come at a higher cost and require advance booking.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Kennedyville reflects the challenges presented by its rural location. While the drive times to nearby medical facilities are manageable, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. The absence of a dedicated cancer center within a reasonable distance necessitates longer travel times for specialized care, potentially impacting the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment.

The score is also influenced by the potential financial burden associated with transportation. The cost of driving, including fuel and vehicle maintenance, can add up, particularly for frequent appointments. The cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services can be even higher, placing a significant financial strain on individuals and families.

Furthermore, the lack of readily available transportation can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with a lung cancer diagnosis. The added burden of navigating transportation challenges can negatively impact a patient's overall well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Kennedyville (ZIP Code 21645) is moderately challenging. While residents have access to medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the financial burden associated with transportation create barriers to healthcare access. Individuals considering moving to Kennedyville or already residing there should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore all available options to ensure they can access the necessary healthcare services, including those related to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Proactive planning, including identifying reliable transportation alternatives and understanding the costs involved, is crucial for navigating the healthcare landscape in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.