21661, Rock Hall, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21661, Rock Hall, Maryland is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.94 percent of residents in 21661 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Ctr At Chestertown with a distance of 10.31 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rock Hall, Maryland (ZIP Code 21661)

The quaint waterfront town of Rock Hall, Maryland, nestled on the Eastern Shore, offers a picturesque escape. However, for residents facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the idyllic setting presents a complex challenge: navigating the intricate web of transportation and healthcare access. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 21661, focusing on the crucial aspects of getting to vital medical appointments. This is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Rock Hall, as their health needs are considered.

The ability to reach specialized care, including oncology consultations, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, is paramount for lung cancer patients. Delays in treatment can significantly impact survival rates. This assessment considers the available transportation options, evaluating their efficiency, accessibility, and reliability, painting a clear picture of the healthcare landscape for Rock Hall residents.

**The Road to Recovery: Driving the Distance**

For many Rock Hall residents, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The journey to specialized lung cancer treatment often begins with a drive. The most direct route to the nearest major healthcare facilities typically involves a drive west on Maryland Route 20 (Rock Hall Road), which transitions into Maryland Route 213 (North/South Washington Avenue) once you cross the Kent County line.

This route offers a relatively straightforward path, but traffic conditions can vary. During peak hours, especially weekdays, congestion can be expected, particularly around Chestertown. From Rock Hall, expect a drive time of approximately 25-35 minutes to reach the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Chestertown, the closest hospital with some oncology services.

For more comprehensive cancer care, including advanced treatments and specialists, patients often need to travel further. The journey to larger hospitals in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area necessitates a longer drive. Heading west on Route 213, then connecting to Route 50, offers access to major hospitals in Annapolis and Baltimore.

The drive to Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, for example, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Reaching the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, a leading cancer treatment center, can take around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, again, depending on traffic flow. These longer drive times pose a significant challenge for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue and require frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in and around Rock Hall are limited. Kent County does offer a public transit service, but its routes are primarily focused on local transportation within the county. This service may offer limited access to Chestertown, but it is unlikely to provide direct routes to the major hospitals in Annapolis or Baltimore.

The availability of public transit is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access. For individuals who cannot drive, or who may not have access to a personal vehicle, the lack of robust public transportation options can create significant barriers to care. The absence of frequent, reliable routes to specialized cancer centers presents a major hurdle.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. Ensuring that buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and designated seating, is essential for accommodating patients with mobility limitations. The current public transit options in Kent County require careful scrutiny to ensure they meet the needs of all residents, including those facing a cancer diagnosis.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive. However, the availability of these services in Rock Hall and surrounding areas can be inconsistent. Ride availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another avenue for healthcare access. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained drivers, catering to the needs of patients with mobility issues or other health concerns. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, including those that may serve the Rock Hall area.

The cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the distance, the type of service required, and the patient's insurance coverage. The accessibility and affordability of these services are essential considerations in assessing the overall healthcare access for Rock Hall residents.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 21661 reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. The score considers drive times to specialized cancer centers, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability and affordability of medical transportation.

The score is not a simple numerical rating, but rather a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities facing lung cancer patients in Rock Hall. It highlights the need for improved transportation options, particularly for those who cannot drive or who require frequent medical appointments.

For individuals considering moving to Rock Hall, this score provides crucial information. It underscores the importance of assessing transportation needs and planning for potential healthcare challenges. Understanding the limitations of the current transportation infrastructure is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare and quality of life.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The healthcare landscape in Rock Hall, Maryland, presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. While the town offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the limited transportation options can create barriers to accessing timely and specialized care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the critical importance of transportation in healthcare access. It highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing services, and ensure the availability and affordability of medical transportation.

For residents and prospective residents alike, understanding these factors is crucial for navigating the healthcare system and ensuring the best possible outcomes. The journey through lung cancer treatment is challenging enough; ensuring accessible and reliable transportation should not be an added burden. The future of healthcare access in Rock Hall depends on continued investment in transportation infrastructure and a commitment to supporting the needs of all residents.