21669, Taylors Island, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21669, Taylors Island, Maryland is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.31 percent of residents in 21669 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calverthealth Medical Center with a distance of 17.22 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Taylors Island (ZIP Code 21669)

The decision to relocate, especially to a place as serene and geographically unique as Taylors Island, Maryland (ZIP Code 21669), often brings with it a multitude of considerations. Among these, the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for those at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the ease of transportation to specialized medical facilities from this island community, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access, particularly for those contemplating moving to Taylors Island.

Taylors Island, nestled within Dorchester County, presents a unique challenge in terms of healthcare access. Its island location, while offering tranquility, necessitates reliance on specific transportation routes to reach medical facilities. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the realities of these commutes, acknowledging the potential impact on patients and their families. This assessment considers the time sensitivity of lung cancer treatment and the importance of readily available care.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary route connecting Taylors Island to the mainland is via Taylors Island Road, which eventually merges with MD-335. This road is your lifeline to Cambridge, the county seat, and the location of the nearest hospital, University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Cambridge. The drive to Cambridge, a distance of approximately 15 miles, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

From Cambridge, access to more specialized facilities, including those offering comprehensive lung cancer treatment, requires further travel. Baltimore, approximately 80 miles away, is home to renowned cancer centers like the Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center. The journey to Baltimore primarily involves taking MD-335 to US-50 East, then merging onto I-97 North or I-95 North, depending on the specific destination. The drive time to Baltimore can range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, factoring in traffic.

Washington, D.C., also houses excellent cancer care providers, including MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. The route to Washington, D.C., from Taylors Island involves taking MD-335 to US-50 West, then connecting to the Beltway (I-495). This drive is roughly 90 miles and can take between 2 to 3 hours, again depending on traffic.

These drive times are crucial considerations for individuals seeking timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the potential challenges presented by these travel distances, particularly for patients experiencing fatigue, pain, or other side effects of treatment.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Dorchester County are limited. The Dorchester County Department of Transportation (DCDOT) operates a demand-response service, offering curb-to-curb transportation. This service requires advance booking and is primarily designed for residents with disabilities, seniors, and those without access to personal vehicles. While DCDOT can potentially transport patients to medical appointments, the service's availability and scheduling limitations may pose challenges for those requiring frequent or urgent care.

The DCDOT service does not have fixed routes or designated bus stops on Taylors Island. Passengers must call in advance to arrange a pick-up and drop-off location. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is dependent on the specific request and the availability of resources. This limited public transit availability significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The lack of robust public transit options emphasizes the importance of personal transportation or reliance on alternative methods such as ride-sharing or medical transport services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Dorchester County, but their presence on Taylors Island is not guaranteed. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Booking a ride might require longer wait times, and the cost can vary significantly depending on the distance and time of day. For patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment, the reliability and convenience of ride-sharing services are not always assured.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients needing assistance with transportation to medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, the cost of NEMT services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are essential.

Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers may service the area. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability, cost, and reliability of these medical transport options, recognizing their critical role in facilitating healthcare access for patients with lung cancer.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Considerations for Moving to Taylors Island:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Taylors Island, ZIP Code 21669, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The drive times to Cambridge are relatively short, but the longer distances to specialized cancer centers in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., present a significant challenge. The limited public transportation options and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services further complicate access.

For individuals considering moving to Taylors Island, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is crucial. This assessment should include:

* **Proximity to Specialized Care:** Evaluate the distance to and the quality of cancer centers offering comprehensive lung cancer treatment.
* **Transportation Alternatives:** Consider the availability and cost of personal transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.
* **Financial Planning:** Factor in the potential costs associated with transportation to medical appointments, including gas, parking, and NEMT services.
* **Support Network:** Assess the availability of family, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation and support.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a definitive measure of healthcare access but rather a framework for understanding the complexities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access in Taylors Island. By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the care they require. The tranquil beauty of Taylors Island should not come at the expense of timely and effective healthcare. Prioritizing healthcare access is paramount when choosing a new home.