21830, Hebron, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21830, Hebron, Maryland is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.98 percent of residents in 21830 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.07 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 21830 (Hebron, Maryland)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is fraught with challenges. In the rural landscape of ZIP Code 21830, encompassing the town of Hebron, Maryland, the availability and accessibility of specialized medical care, particularly oncology services, are significantly impacted by transportation limitations. This write-up, a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, examines the various modes of transportation available to residents, quantifying their impact on healthcare access and ultimately, on the well-being of those battling this devastating disease.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 21830 is, undoubtedly, the reliance on personal vehicles. The vast majority of residents depend on their cars to navigate the sprawling distances between their homes and medical facilities. This dependence highlights a critical vulnerability: the ability to drive. For individuals undergoing treatment, including chemotherapy or radiation, the physical demands of driving can be debilitating. Furthermore, the financial burden of vehicle ownership, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, adds another layer of stress to an already challenging situation.

The major arteries for transportation in and out of Hebron are U.S. Route 50 and Maryland Route 13. Route 50, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to larger medical centers in Salisbury, approximately 10 to 15 miles east, and Easton, roughly 50 miles west. Route 13, a north-south highway, offers access to medical facilities in Salisbury and the surrounding areas. The drive-time to Salisbury Regional Medical Center, the closest comprehensive hospital with oncology services, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. However, this drive-time can increase significantly during peak hours or adverse weather conditions.

Public transportation options in 21830 are limited. The Shore Transit system provides bus service throughout Wicomico County, but the routes are infrequent and do not directly serve many residential areas in Hebron. The primary routes that might be relevant for healthcare access include Route 101, which travels along Route 50, and Route 102, which travels along Route 13. However, these routes primarily serve the more populated areas of Salisbury, and the wait times between buses can be substantial. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. While Shore Transit does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, the frequency of these services may not adequately meet the needs of patients requiring regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Salisbury area, including Hebron. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for some individuals, especially those with limited financial resources. The reliability of ride-sharing services is another concern, as patients need dependable transportation for scheduled treatments and appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and MedStar Mobile Healthcare, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the region. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the availability of NEMT services can be limited, and prior arrangements are often required. Furthermore, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 21830 reflects the challenges faced by residents seeking healthcare access. The score considers factors such as drive-times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing reliability, and medical transportation options. The score is not a static number but rather a reflection of the complexities of the transportation landscape. The score emphasizes the need for proactive measures to improve healthcare access for individuals with lung cancer.

The impact of transportation limitations extends beyond the physical act of getting to a medical appointment. It affects a patient's overall well-being, including their ability to adhere to treatment plans, manage their symptoms, and maintain a sense of independence. The stress of navigating transportation barriers can exacerbate anxiety and depression, further hindering the patient's ability to cope with their illness.

For individuals considering moving to Hebron, or for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. The proximity to Salisbury, with its medical facilities, is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options necessitate careful planning.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need for community-based solutions to address transportation barriers. This includes advocating for expanded public transportation services, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting the availability of affordable medical transportation options. Furthermore, healthcare providers can play a crucial role by offering telehealth services, providing transportation assistance, and coordinating care to minimize the number of trips required.

The journey through a lung cancer diagnosis is a challenging one. Addressing transportation barriers is a critical step in ensuring that residents of 21830 have the access to the care they need to fight this disease. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a call to action, urging the community to prioritize healthcare access and improve the quality of life for those affected by lung cancer.