21755, Jefferson, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21755, Jefferson, Maryland is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.90 percent of residents in 21755 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Frederick Health Hospital with a distance of 8.92 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 21755**

The air hangs heavy, a silent promise of the challenges that lie ahead. Imagine the diagnosis: lung cancer. The weight of it settles, a physical presence demanding immediate action. But beyond the emotional turmoil, a practical reality emerges: accessing timely and effective healthcare. This write-up, a Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 21755 (Jefferson, Maryland), delves into the critical aspect of transportation, assessing the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This is a key consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Jefferson or seeking care within the area.

The first crucial element is drive time. Within ZIP Code 21755, the nearest major hospitals offering comprehensive cancer care are located in Frederick, Maryland, approximately 15 miles away. This journey, typically taking between 20 and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions, is primarily via US-340 East, a major artery connecting Jefferson to Frederick. However, traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak commuting hours. A detour onto MD-180 East, a scenic but slower alternative, might add 10 to 15 minutes to the trip.

Beyond Frederick, the renowned Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore (approximately 60 miles) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda (approximately 50 miles) represent more distant options. The journey to Baltimore involves navigating I-70 East, a major interstate often congested, potentially extending the drive to over an hour. Bethesda, reachable via I-270 South, presents similar challenges, with traffic fluctuations significantly impacting travel time. These longer drives necessitate careful planning, particularly for those undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing debilitating symptoms.

Public transportation offers a less direct but potentially viable alternative. The Frederick County Transit system provides limited bus service within the county, but its routes and frequency are not ideally suited for frequent medical appointments. Route 80, for instance, serves the Brunswick MARC station (approximately 10 minutes from Jefferson), offering access to commuter rail service into Washington, D.C. From there, one could transfer to the Metro system, reaching hospitals in the D.C. area. However, this multi-leg journey, involving bus, train, and Metro, can easily consume two to three hours, making it less practical for patients requiring urgent or frequent care.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for those with mobility limitations. Frederick County Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for passengers with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the distance to transfer points could pose challenges. The Brunswick MARC station is also ADA accessible, but the availability of elevators and ramps at transfer stations within the D.C. Metro system should be verified in advance.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. Availability in Jefferson is generally good, but prices can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day. For patients with limited mobility or those unable to drive, ride-sharing provides a convenient door-to-door service, although the cost can accumulate, particularly with frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, represent another option. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, it is essential to check insurance coverage and pre-book these services, as availability might be limited.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 21755 is not a simple number. It is a complex evaluation of the interplay between transportation options and healthcare access. While the proximity to Frederick offers relatively convenient access to local hospitals, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges. The public transportation options are limited and time-consuming, particularly for those needing frequent appointments. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide more flexible alternatives, but they come with associated costs.

For individuals considering moving to Jefferson, or for those already residing in the area, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is crucial. The ability to navigate these complexities directly impacts the quality of care and the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. Careful planning, pre-booking transportation services, and exploring all available options are essential to ensure timely access to essential medical care.

The journey through lung cancer is arduous. Having reliable transportation should not be an added burden. This Lung Cancer Score highlights the necessity of proactive planning, considering all available options, and advocating for improved healthcare access within the community. It is a call to action, reminding us that healthcare extends beyond the walls of the hospital and into the very fabric of our daily lives.