21660, Ridgely, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21660, Ridgely, Maryland is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.67 percent of residents in 21660 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Center At Easton with a distance of 16.02 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ridgely, Maryland (ZIP Code 21660)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. For residents of Ridgely, Maryland (ZIP Code 21660), the journey to treatment becomes a critical component of their overall prognosis. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for this community, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by the transportation landscape. It aims to illuminate the practical realities of healthcare access for those already residing in Ridgely, and for those considering *moving to Ridgely*, particularly if they have, or are at risk of, lung cancer.

The primary consideration for the Lung Cancer Score is the time it takes to reach specialized medical facilities. Lung cancer treatment often necessitates a multidisciplinary approach, including pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and specialized surgical teams. Proximity to these resources is paramount, and transportation is the key to unlocking that access.

Driving is, for many, the default mode of *transportation* in this rural area. From Ridgely, the most direct route to major healthcare centers involves navigating several key roadways. The primary artery is Maryland Route 480, which connects Ridgely to larger thoroughfares. Heading west on MD-480, a driver can merge onto US Route 301, a major north-south artery. This route provides access to Easton, approximately a 30-minute drive, where University of Maryland Shore Regional Health offers comprehensive cancer care. Further afield, a drive south on US-301 to Annapolis (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes) provides access to additional facilities.

The drive times, however, are subject to the vagaries of traffic. Rush hour congestion, particularly on US-301, can significantly extend travel times, potentially delaying crucial treatment. This variability is a crucial factor in evaluating the Lung Cancer Score. The condition of the roads, especially during inclement weather, also influences travel times and safety.

Public *transportation* options in this region are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly serve Ridgely. The primary public transit option is the Talbot County Transit, but its routes are infrequent and may not directly connect Ridgely to the major healthcare hubs. These services are designed primarily for local travel and may not be suitable for frequent trips to distant medical appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible public transit is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern for those battling lung cancer. The Talbot County Transit does offer some ADA-accessible vehicles, but their availability on specific routes and at specific times needs to be confirmed. The lack of robust public transit options significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative mode of *transportation*. Their availability in Ridgely and surrounding areas can vary. While they offer a degree of convenience, the cost of frequent rides to medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, also needs to be considered. The Lung Cancer Score must factor in the potential financial and logistical strain of relying on ride-sharing.

Medical *transportation* services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare, provide specialized transport for patients with medical needs. These services can offer a more reliable and comfortable option for those requiring assistance. However, they are typically reserved for patients with specific medical requirements, and the cost can be substantial. The availability of these services, and the ease of accessing them, are crucial considerations in the Lung Cancer Score.

The physical distance to healthcare facilities is only one aspect of the equation. The availability of specialists, the waiting times for appointments, and the comprehensiveness of the cancer care offered are all critical factors. While Ridgely is within reasonable driving distance of several healthcare providers, the limited public transit options and the potential for traffic delays necessitate a careful assessment of the transportation infrastructure.

The Lung Cancer Score for Ridgely, Maryland (ZIP Code 21660) is therefore a complex calculation. The score is lowered by the limited public transit options and the potential for traffic delays, but is somewhat offset by the proximity to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services also play a significant role.

For those considering *moving to Ridgely*, the Lung Cancer Score should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Individuals with a history of lung cancer, or those at high risk, should carefully evaluate the transportation options and the proximity to specialized medical care. They should also consider the potential financial implications of relying on ride-sharing or medical *transportation* services.

The ideal scenario would be a robust public *transportation* system that connects Ridgely to the major healthcare hubs, with frequent and ADA-accessible routes. This would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score and enhance the quality of life for residents. Until such improvements are realized, residents of Ridgely must carefully weigh the challenges and opportunities presented by the existing *transportation* landscape, ensuring they can access the timely and effective healthcare they need. The ability to navigate the *transportation* network effectively is a crucial element in their fight against lung cancer.