21679, Wye Mills, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21679, Wye Mills, Maryland is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.80 percent of residents in 21679 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Shore Medical Center At Easton with a distance of 11.73 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21679**

The verdant landscapes of Wye Mills, Maryland (ZIP Code 21679), offer a tranquil respite, a siren song for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, the idyllic charm must be weighed against practical considerations, especially concerning healthcare access. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" – a hypothetical assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing specialized medical care, particularly for lung cancer treatment, from this location. The score is not a definitive medical judgment, but rather a reflection of transportation challenges that may impact a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent care. It considers the realities of commuting to healthcare facilities, a critical aspect when contemplating moving to Wye Mills.

The cornerstone of our assessment is the time it takes to reach the nearest comprehensive cancer centers. For residents of 21679, the most likely destinations include the University of Maryland Shore Regional Cancer Center in Easton, approximately 15 miles away, and the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, about 70 miles distant. The distance to these facilities significantly influences the Lung Cancer Score, as frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation), and follow-up care are essential for lung cancer patients.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents will be personal vehicles. The drive to Easton, while relatively short in mileage, may be affected by traffic and weather conditions. The journey typically begins on Route 50, a major east-west artery, providing a direct connection to Easton. Expect a drive time of around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

The commute to Baltimore, however, presents a more significant challenge. The initial segment involves traversing Route 50 east, then transitioning onto the Bay Bridge, a potential bottleneck, especially during peak hours and weekends. After crossing the bridge, the route continues onto I-97 north, then onto I-695, the Baltimore Beltway, before finally reaching the city. The entire trip could take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic congestion, accidents, and time of day. This extended travel time directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, potentially adding stress and fatigue for patients and caregivers.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not offer extensive bus service in the immediate vicinity of Wye Mills. The closest bus routes are likely to be found in Easton, but these would not provide direct access to Baltimore. This lack of robust public transit significantly diminishes the Lung Cancer Score, as patients without personal vehicles or access to ride-sharing services face considerable hurdles in reaching their appointments. ADA accessibility features on any available bus routes would need to be confirmed to ensure that patients with mobility challenges can utilize the service.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost may be a concern. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning, could be limited, potentially delaying or disrupting appointments. The cost of these services for a round trip to Baltimore could be substantial, placing an additional financial burden on patients.

Medical transport services, like CareRide or MedStar, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate mobility challenges. However, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing services and may require advance booking, adding another layer of planning. The availability of these services in 21679 and their coverage area must be confirmed.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The Lung Cancer Score for 21679 reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors. The score is adversely affected by the distance to major cancer centers, the potential for traffic delays, and the limited public transportation options. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, their cost and availability remain concerns.

The score would be improved by increased public transportation options, including direct bus routes to Baltimore, or a regional shuttle service specifically designed for medical appointments. Enhanced ride-sharing incentives for medical appointments could also provide some relief.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Trade-Offs**

Moving to Wye Mills offers undeniable benefits, including its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. However, individuals considering this move, especially those with existing or potential health concerns, must carefully evaluate the challenges of healthcare access. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of transportation considerations when assessing the suitability of a location. Prospective residents should factor in the time, cost, and stress associated with traveling to medical appointments, especially for specialized care like lung cancer treatment. This detailed analysis of transportation options provides a framework for making informed decisions, ensuring that the promise of a tranquil lifestyle is balanced with the practical realities of accessing healthcare.