21733, Fairplay, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21733, Fairplay, Maryland is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.64 percent of residents in 21733 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meritus Medical Center with a distance of 6.62 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fairplay, Maryland (ZIP Code 21733)

The crisp air of Fairplay, Maryland, a community nestled in the heart of Washington County, offers a certain tranquility. But when the specter of lung cancer looms, the idyllic landscape transforms into a complex web of transportation challenges and healthcare access concerns. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 21733, delves into the realities of navigating the healthcare system, specifically for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, focusing on transportation options and their impact. For those contemplating moving to Fairplay, this analysis provides critical insights.

The foundation of any "Lung Cancer Score" rests on the fundamental principle of timely healthcare access. For residents of Fairplay, the journey to vital medical services is often a significant undertaking. The primary driver of this reality is the geographic isolation of the area. While the community enjoys a rural charm, this characteristic creates transportation hurdles. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in Hagerstown, approximately 15 miles away, and in Frederick, roughly 50 miles distant.

The most common mode of transportation is, naturally, personal vehicles. The primary route to Hagerstown involves navigating **Interstate 70 (I-70)** east to **Maryland Route 64 (MD-64)** or **Maryland Route 40 (MD-40)**. The drive time, under ideal conditions, is typically 20-30 minutes. However, this can fluctuate dramatically due to traffic, especially during peak commuting hours. The journey to Frederick necessitates traversing **I-70** east, adding significant time, potentially exceeding an hour.

For those without personal vehicles, or for whom driving is not an option due to the debilitating effects of cancer treatment, public transportation presents a more complicated picture. The primary public transit provider in Washington County is the **Washington County Transit (WCT)**. However, WCT's routes are limited in Fairplay. While some routes might offer service within a reasonable distance, direct access to cancer centers in Hagerstown or Frederick is not readily available. This often necessitates multiple transfers and extended travel times, a significant burden for patients undergoing treatment.

The WCT system, while striving to meet the needs of all riders, including those with disabilities, offers **ADA-accessible features** on its buses. These features include ramps or lifts, designated seating areas, and audio-visual announcements. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still pose challenges for patients requiring frequent medical appointments. The lack of a robust public transit network in Fairplay highlights the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a potential solution, but their availability in Fairplay can be inconsistent. The rural nature of the area means that wait times for a ride can be unpredictable, and the cost can be substantial, particularly for frequent trips. Furthermore, patients undergoing treatment may experience side effects that make ride-sharing less desirable, such as nausea or fatigue.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, provide another option. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transport. These services typically involve scheduled pick-ups and drop-offs, often with trained personnel to assist patients. While these services can provide a reliable mode of transportation, they can be costly and may require advance booking, making them less flexible than other options.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Fairplay, Maryland, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the variability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation all contribute to the overall healthcare access picture. The drive times to cancer centers, while seemingly manageable under optimal conditions, are subject to significant variability due to traffic and other unforeseen circumstances.

For those considering moving to Fairplay, the availability and reliability of transportation should be a primary consideration. The ability to drive, or the availability of a reliable support network for transportation, is crucial. The financial implications of transportation costs, particularly for frequent medical appointments, should also be carefully evaluated.

The impact of a lung cancer diagnosis extends far beyond the medical aspects of the disease. The ability to access timely and consistent healthcare is essential for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes. The challenges of transportation in Fairplay, Maryland, underscore the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Fairplay is not simply a numerical value. It is a reflection of the lived experiences of individuals facing a life-altering diagnosis. It is a call to action, a reminder that access to healthcare is not just a matter of medical expertise but also of the ability to navigate the complex realities of transportation. For those considering a move to Fairplay, a thorough assessment of transportation options is paramount.