21821, Deal Island, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21821, Deal Island, Maryland is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.00 percent of residents in 21821 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 31.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 23.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 21821

The salty tang of the Chesapeake Bay, the rhythmic pulse of crab shacks, and the quiet beauty of Deal Island – these are the hallmarks of ZIP Code 21821. Yet, beneath this idyllic veneer lies a critical concern: healthcare access, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around Deal Island, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, a crucial lens through which to view the challenges and opportunities faced by residents needing timely medical care.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport services. It aims to paint a realistic picture of the journey from home to diagnosis and treatment, a journey that can be significantly impacted by the limitations of transportation infrastructure. For anyone contemplating moving to Deal Island, this information is indispensable.

**The Geography of Healthcare Access**

Deal Island, a peninsula in Somerset County, Maryland, is geographically isolated. This isolation directly impacts healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in Salisbury, roughly 30 miles away. The primary routes to Salisbury Regional Hospital, the most likely destination for initial diagnosis and treatment, are Maryland Route 363 (Deal Island Road) and U.S. Route 13. These roads, while generally well-maintained, are subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours and tourist seasons.

The drive itself is scenic, winding through farmland and marshlands. However, the distance and potential for delays significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. Under ideal conditions, the drive to Salisbury Regional Hospital takes approximately 45 minutes. However, during rush hour, or due to unforeseen circumstances like accidents on Route 13, this commute can easily stretch to an hour or more. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for patients experiencing symptoms, undergoing treatment, or managing post-treatment care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 21821 are severely limited. The Shore Transit system, which serves Somerset County, offers routes that connect Deal Island to Salisbury. However, these routes are infrequent, often operating on a limited schedule, particularly on weekends and evenings. The primary route serving Deal Island is Route 101, which travels along Route 363 to Salisbury.

The buses themselves are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequency of service and the extended travel times – often exceeding two hours for a one-way trip – render this option impractical for many lung cancer patients. The journey is often arduous, requiring multiple transfers and long waits, adding significant stress and fatigue to an already challenging situation.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Salisbury area. However, their presence in Deal Island is inconsistent. Availability is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments or emergency situations is therefore precarious.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and MedStar Mobile Healthcare provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for patients who are unable to drive or use public transportation. However, these services come at a cost, and availability may be limited, especially during peak demand. Scheduling and coordination are crucial, and any delays can significantly impact a patient's treatment schedule.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for 21821 reflects the challenges outlined above. It is a composite score, incorporating factors such as drive time, public transit reliability, ride-share availability, and the cost and accessibility of medical transport services.

**Drive Time Factor:** The 45-minute to one-hour drive to Salisbury Regional Hospital contributes a moderate negative impact. The potential for delays, coupled with the patient's physical condition, can exacerbate stress and fatigue.

**Public Transit Factor:** The limited frequency and extended travel times of Shore Transit's Route 101 contribute a significant negative impact. The lack of convenient public transit options places a heavy burden on patients and their families.

**Ride-Share Factor:** The inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services in Deal Island contributes a moderate negative impact. The unreliability of this option makes it an unsuitable choice for regular appointments.

**Medical Transport Factor:** The availability of medical transport services provides a positive impact, albeit a limited one. The cost and scheduling requirements, however, reduce the overall positive impact.

**Overall Score:** Based on these factors, the Lung Cancer Score for 21821 is considered **below average**. This score highlights the significant transportation barriers that residents face when accessing healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like lung cancer.

**Implications for Moving to Deal Island**

For individuals considering a move to Deal Island, the Lung Cancer Score should be a key consideration. The limited healthcare access necessitates careful planning and consideration. Individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk should carefully evaluate the transportation challenges and their ability to manage them.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

* **Pre-existing conditions:** Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, especially those requiring frequent medical attention, should assess their ability to manage the transportation challenges.
* **Vehicle ownership:** Reliable personal transportation is almost essential in 21821.
* **Family support:** The availability of family or friends to provide transportation can significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Insurance coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for medical transport services.
* **Advance planning:** Schedule appointments well in advance and factor in potential travel delays.
* **Advocacy:** Support efforts to improve public transportation options and expand medical transport services in Somerset County.

**Conclusion**

The beauty of Deal Island is undeniable. However, the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, demand careful consideration. The Lung Cancer Score provides a critical assessment of the transportation landscape, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that residents face. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare and the quality of life in this unique and isolated community. The journey to healthcare in 21821 requires careful navigation, strategic planning, and a commitment to advocating for improved access to medical care.