21649, Marydel, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21649, Marydel, Maryland is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.62 percent of residents in 21649 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Ctr At Chestertown with a distance of 15.72 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Marydel, MD (ZIP Code 21649)

The quaint rural community of Marydel, Maryland, nestled within ZIP code 21649, offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Yet, the serenity of this setting presents a unique challenge when considering access to healthcare, particularly for individuals facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the ease and practicality of accessing crucial medical services, focusing specifically on **transportation** options available to residents.

The score will consider factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a realistic picture of the **healthcare access** landscape. This information is crucial for current residents and those considering **moving to Marydel**, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The journey to diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer often involves numerous appointments: initial consultations, diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), biopsies, staging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits. The availability and efficiency of **transportation** become critical factors in navigating this complex process.

Marydel’s location in Caroline County, Maryland, dictates its **transportation** realities. Residents primarily rely on personal vehicles for most errands. The major thoroughfare serving the area is Maryland Route 300, a two-lane road that connects Marydel to nearby towns and cities. Accessing specialized lung cancer care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers located further afield.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The closest major medical facilities offering comprehensive lung cancer care are located in Dover, Delaware, and Easton, Maryland. Driving to Dover, a journey of approximately 30 miles, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. The route primarily involves using Maryland Route 300 to Delaware Route 1, a limited-access highway. This route offers a relatively smooth ride, but potential delays can occur during rush hour or due to accidents.

Easton, Maryland, roughly 35 miles away, is accessible via Maryland Route 300, Maryland Route 404, and U.S. Route 50. The drive time is similar to Dover, ranging from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. While U.S. Route 50 is a major highway, portions of the route involve traversing two-lane roads, which can slow travel.

Baltimore, Maryland, and Wilmington, Delaware, offer even more specialized care. Reaching Baltimore, a journey of approximately 75 miles, involves using Maryland Route 300, U.S. Route 50, and I-97. Expect a drive time of at least 1.5 to 2 hours, heavily influenced by traffic congestion, particularly around the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area.

Wilmington, Delaware, about 60 miles away, can be reached via Maryland Route 300 and Delaware Route 1. The drive time is similar to Baltimore, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

**Public Transit:**

Public transit options in Marydel and the surrounding areas are limited. Caroline County does offer a demand-response transit service, the Caroline County Transit System (CCTS). However, this service operates on a reservation basis and may not be ideal for the frequent and often unpredictable appointments associated with lung cancer treatment. The CCTS may offer door-to-door service, but availability and scheduling limitations should be carefully considered. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments.

The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their illness or treatment side effects.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Marydel area, although their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The reliability of these services for scheduled medical appointments is questionable. Ride-sharing prices can also fluctuate, potentially adding a financial burden to an already challenging situation.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by private ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, offer a more reliable option for individuals needing assistance with travel. These services often provide door-to-door transport, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior authorization from insurance companies. Researching and securing these services in advance is crucial.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including:

* **American Medical Response (AMR):** A national provider offering ambulance and non-emergency medical transport services.
* **Care Transport:** A regional provider specializing in non-emergency medical transportation.
* **MedStar Mobile Healthcare:** Provides ambulance and medical transport services.

It is essential to investigate insurance coverage for these services and understand any out-of-pocket costs.

**Lung Cancer Score Considerations:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Marydel, MD (21649) would reflect the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate to long drive times to major medical centers, with potential for traffic delays.
* **Public Transit:** Limited availability and reliability of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Inconsistent availability and potential cost fluctuations.
* **Medical Transport:** Available but potentially expensive, requiring pre-planning and insurance verification.

**Recommendations for Residents and Prospective Movers:**

For residents of Marydel, proactive planning is crucial. Establish relationships with medical providers in advance, explore medical transport options, and familiarize yourself with the CCTS. For those considering **moving to Marydel**, carefully weigh the convenience of rural living against the potential challenges of accessing specialized healthcare. Assess your personal **transportation** needs and consider the potential impact of a serious illness on your ability to travel.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Marydel, MD (21649) underscores the importance of careful consideration of **healthcare access**. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the distance from comprehensive medical facilities and the limited **transportation** options present significant challenges for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Understanding these realities is essential for making informed decisions about health and well-being.