21701, Frederick, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21701, Frederick, Maryland is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.42 percent of residents in 21701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 1.60 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21701

Considering a move to Frederick, Maryland (ZIP Code 21701)? This assessment explores the landscape of lung cancer healthcare access, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patient care. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone seeking quality healthcare, particularly those facing the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up provides a detailed perspective on navigating the healthcare system, offering insights into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those battling lung cancer, is multifaceted. It involves more than just the medical treatment itself; it includes the ease with which patients can reach their appointments, the availability of support services, and the overall accessibility of care. This analysis uses "Lung Cancer Score" as a metric, considering the complexities of transportation in 21701 and its impact on patient outcomes.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in Frederick are the major roadways. Interstate 70 (I-70) serves as a crucial east-west corridor, connecting Frederick to Baltimore and beyond. Driving from the heart of 21701, such as the downtown area, to Frederick Health Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 5-10 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. This short drive time contributes positively to the Lung Cancer Score, offering quick access to essential medical services.

However, traffic can significantly impact drive times. Rush hour, particularly on I-70 and US Route 15 (US-15), can lead to considerable delays. US-15, a north-south route, is another critical roadway, connecting Frederick to Pennsylvania and Virginia. During peak hours, the commute to Frederick Health Hospital from areas further north or south along US-15 can stretch to 20-30 minutes, potentially impacting treatment schedules and patient well-being.

Other roads like Maryland Route 26 (MD-26) and MD-355 offer alternative routes, but they are often slower and more congested. Careful consideration of traffic patterns is vital when planning appointments and treatment schedules. This variability in drive times, influenced by traffic, weather, and time of day, influences the Lung Cancer Score.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus System**

Frederick County offers public transportation through the TransIT system. Several bus routes serve the 21701 ZIP code, including routes that connect to Frederick Health Hospital and other healthcare facilities. While public transit provides an alternative to driving, it's essential to consider its limitations.

Bus routes may not be frequent enough to accommodate the specific needs of cancer patients, such as frequent appointments or emergency situations. The travel time via bus can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding to patient fatigue and discomfort. While TransIT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, the overall accessibility and convenience of public transit for lung cancer patients require careful evaluation.

The frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, might be limited. This can pose challenges for patients needing to attend appointments outside of standard business hours. The Lung Cancer Score reflects these challenges, acknowledging the role of public transit while highlighting its limitations for this specific patient population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Expanding Transportation Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Frederick, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. These services can provide convenient and on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. The availability of ride-sharing can be a significant benefit, especially for patients who cannot drive or lack access to personal transportation.

However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, potentially becoming a financial burden for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather, can also be a concern. The Lung Cancer Score acknowledges the value of ride-sharing while considering its potential limitations.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. These services provide specialized transportation, often including trained personnel and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While medical transport offers a higher level of care and support, it can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. The availability and cost of medical transport services are important factors in evaluating the Lung Cancer Score.

**Medical Facility Accessibility**

Frederick Health Hospital is the primary healthcare provider in 21701. It offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services. The hospital's proximity to the downtown area, as mentioned, contributes positively to the Lung Cancer Score. However, the accessibility of specific departments, such as oncology and radiation therapy, within the hospital complex is also crucial.

Consider the availability of parking, the ease of navigating the hospital's layout, and the provision of patient support services, such as transportation assistance. These factors contribute to the overall patient experience and influence the Lung Cancer Score.

**Moving to Frederick: Weighing the Transportation Factors**

For individuals considering a move to Frederick, Maryland, and facing a lung cancer diagnosis, understanding the transportation landscape is critical. The Lung Cancer Score, as assessed in 21701, is a multifaceted evaluation. It considers the drive times, the availability and limitations of public transit, the role of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the accessibility of healthcare facilities.

The proximity of Frederick Health Hospital and the availability of ride-sharing services offer advantages. However, the potential for traffic delays, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport must be carefully considered. The ideal scenario involves a combination of transportation options, tailored to the individual patient's needs and circumstances.

**Conclusion: The Score and the Journey**

The Lung Cancer Score for 21701 reflects a mixed picture. While Frederick offers relatively easy access to a major healthcare provider, transportation challenges exist. The variability in drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of alternative transportation options require careful planning. Patients should proactively research transportation options, considering their individual needs and financial resources.

Ultimately, the journey through lung cancer treatment is a challenging one. Understanding and navigating the transportation landscape in 21701 is a crucial step in ensuring that patients can access the care they need with as little stress and disruption as possible. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is not solely about medical treatment; it is also about the ability to get there.