21791, Union Bridge, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21791, Union Bridge, Maryland is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.47 percent of residents in 21791 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carroll Hospital Center with a distance of 10.57 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Union Bridge (ZIP Code 21791)

Considering a move to the charming town of Union Bridge, Maryland (ZIP code 21791)? This analysis provides a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score,' a metric evaluating the accessibility of healthcare services crucial for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The score focuses on transportation options, a critical factor influencing healthcare access, especially for individuals potentially facing mobility challenges. This write-up will explore the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape from Union Bridge, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport.

The score will be based on a subjective assessment, considering factors like travel time, convenience, cost, and availability. While no single metric can encapsulate the full complexity of healthcare access, this analysis aims to provide a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents of Union Bridge. The goal is to empower potential residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, especially those with a heightened risk or a confirmed diagnosis of lung cancer.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

Union Bridge's location in Carroll County offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban centers. However, this balance significantly impacts healthcare access. The most direct route to healthcare facilities often involves driving. For those with lung cancer, prompt access to specialists and treatment is paramount.

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the major highways: **Maryland Route 31** and **Maryland Route 26**. Heading east on Route 26 will lead you toward Frederick, Maryland, where you will find Frederick Health Hospital. This drive, depending on traffic, can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. This hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

Alternatively, traveling south on Route 31, you can reach Carroll Hospital in Westminster, Maryland. This drive typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes. Carroll Hospital also provides oncology services, though the scope may differ from Frederick Health. Both hospitals are vital resources for residents of Union Bridge, offering crucial services for lung cancer patients.

Smaller roads, like **Old New Windsor Road** and **Uniontown Road**, provide alternative routes, but these are generally slower and less reliable, particularly during peak traffic hours or inclement weather. These roads might be useful for shorter trips to primary care physicians or local urgent care facilities, but they are not ideal for accessing specialized cancer care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

Public transit options in Union Bridge are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those relying on alternatives to driving. The Carroll Transit System (CTS) provides some services within Carroll County. However, routes and schedules can be infrequent, and services may not directly connect Union Bridge to major healthcare facilities.

CTS offers demand-response services, which require advance booking. This option might be available for trips to medical appointments, but it necessitates careful planning and may not be ideal for urgent situations. Information on routes and schedules can be found on the Carroll County website.

It is crucial to investigate the availability of ADA-accessible features on CTS vehicles. Individuals with mobility limitations need reliable transportation options, and the availability of accessible vehicles is a critical factor in healthcare access. The CTS website should provide details on ADA compliance.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Union Bridge area, offering a potential solution for transportation. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments might be unreliable.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare or AMR (American Medical Response), provide specialized transportation for patients requiring medical assistance. These services are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs, such as those requiring stretcher transport or medical supervision during transit. They are a valuable resource but are often more expensive than standard transportation options.

**The Lung Cancer Score: An Assessment**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Union Bridge, considering the factors outlined above, would be moderately challenging. While access to healthcare facilities is possible via driving, the reliance on personal vehicles presents a significant hurdle for those without access to a car or those with mobility limitations. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

The drive times to Frederick Health Hospital and Carroll Hospital are reasonable, but they can be extended by traffic. The availability of comprehensive cancer care at both facilities is a positive aspect.

The score would be adjusted based on the individual's circumstances. For example, an individual with a driver's license and a reliable vehicle would likely face fewer transportation challenges than someone who relies on public transit or ride-sharing.

**Moving to Union Bridge: Considerations for Healthcare**

For individuals considering a move to Union Bridge, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. Those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk should prioritize proximity to comprehensive cancer care centers.

Before moving, prospective residents should research the availability of primary care physicians and specialists in the area. They should also investigate the accessibility of transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

It is advisable to contact the healthcare facilities in Frederick and Westminster to inquire about their patient transportation services and any partnerships with local transportation providers.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

Union Bridge offers a desirable lifestyle, but its healthcare access presents challenges. The 'Lung Cancer Score' highlights the importance of careful planning and proactive investigation regarding transportation. While driving provides the most reliable access to healthcare, the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing necessitate a comprehensive approach.

By understanding the transportation landscape, potential residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the vital services required for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The ability to navigate the transportation system is a critical aspect of healthcare access, and residents of Union Bridge must be prepared to address these challenges.