21849, Parsonsburg, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21849, Parsonsburg, Maryland is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.03 percent of residents in 21849 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.23 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Parsonsburg (ZIP Code 21849)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding timely and effective healthcare. For residents of Parsonsburg, Maryland (ZIP Code 21849), the journey to that care is a crucial factor in overall well-being. This write-up explores the intricacies of healthcare access, focusing on transportation options and their impact on a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" – a subjective measure reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical services. This score, while not a scientific metric, attempts to capture the lived experience of a patient in need.

Parsonsburg, a small community nestled in Wicomico County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary arteries influencing commute times are U.S. Route 50, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Maryland Route 12, connecting Parsonsburg to Salisbury, the county seat. The availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services significantly shapes the ability of residents to access crucial oncology services.

**Drive Time and Highway Challenges**

The most direct route to the nearest comprehensive cancer care often involves driving. The Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC) in Salisbury is the primary destination for specialized lung cancer treatment. From Parsonsburg, the drive typically involves navigating Route 12 to Route 50, then heading east. Under ideal conditions, this journey clocks in at approximately 15-20 minutes. However, these conditions are rarely guaranteed.

Traffic congestion on Route 50, especially during peak hours, can dramatically increase travel time. Accidents, seasonal tourism, and even routine road maintenance can transform a short drive into a stressful ordeal. The Lung Cancer Score would be negatively impacted by these variables. A patient undergoing chemotherapy, for example, would be particularly vulnerable to the added stress and physical toll of extended travel.

The condition of the roads themselves also plays a role. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting, particularly on Route 12, can exacerbate discomfort and pose safety risks, further diminishing the score. The availability of ample parking at PRMC is another consideration. Limited parking can add further delay and frustration, particularly for patients with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Parsonsburg and the surrounding area is a limited resource. The Wicomico County Transit system provides bus services, but routes and schedules are not designed to prioritize healthcare access. The routes are infrequent and often require multiple transfers, significantly extending travel times.

For example, a hypothetical patient in Parsonsburg might need to take a bus to Salisbury, then transfer to another bus to reach PRMC. This journey could easily take over an hour, even without delays. The Lung Cancer Score suffers considerably when relying on public transit.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. While Wicomico County Transit buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and priority seating, the overall infrastructure may not be fully accessible. Sidewalks, bus stop locations, and the availability of accessible transfer points can present challenges. The score would be negatively affected by a lack of robust ADA-compliant infrastructure.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. However, their availability in Parsonsburg can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing during peak demand can also make these services prohibitively expensive for some patients. The Lung Cancer Score would be moderately enhanced by the availability of ride-sharing, but the caveats must be considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medstar Mobile Healthcare and other private providers operate in the area. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

While medical transport services offer a significant advantage in terms of convenience and patient support, they come at a cost. The Lung Cancer Score would be positively influenced by the availability of medical transportation, but the financial burden must be weighed. Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses are crucial considerations.

**The Impact on the Lung Cancer Score**

The overall Lung Cancer Score for residents of Parsonsburg is likely to be moderate. The proximity to PRMC provides a significant advantage, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges. The score would be significantly impacted by factors such as:

* **Traffic Congestion:** Increased traffic on Route 50 negatively impacts the score.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** Infrequent routes and lengthy travel times diminish the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Inconsistent service and surge pricing moderately affect the score.
* **Medical Transportation Costs:** High costs can negatively impact the score.
* **ADA Accessibility:** Limited accessibility on public transit and at healthcare facilities decreases the score.

**Moving to Parsonsburg: A Healthcare Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Parsonsburg, the accessibility of healthcare, especially for those with pre-existing conditions or a family history of cancer, should be a key factor. The availability of reliable transportation is paramount. Prospective residents should research the availability of ride-sharing services, the cost of medical transportation, and the potential for traffic delays.

The Lung Cancer Score, while subjective, serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about the availability of medical facilities. It encompasses the entire journey, from the patient's doorstep to the doctor's office and back. For residents of Parsonsburg, navigating this journey requires careful planning and a realistic understanding of the transportation landscape.