21851, Pocomoke City, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21851, Pocomoke City, Maryland is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.90 percent of residents in 21851 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 20.49 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21851 (Pocomoke City)

Considering a move to Pocomoke City, Maryland (ZIP code 21851)? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the accessibility of healthcare services crucial for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, focusing on transportation options. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone, especially those with pre-existing conditions or a higher risk profile. This score assesses the ease of accessing essential medical resources, considering travel times, public transportation, and alternative mobility solutions.

The Lung Cancer Score isn't a definitive medical judgment, but a practical guide to navigating the healthcare landscape. It incorporates drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing options to gauge the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking lung cancer care. This information is particularly vital for those considering relocating to Pocomoke City, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in 21851 is automobile transportation. The drive to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, particularly those equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, will likely involve travel to Salisbury, Maryland, or even further afield to Wilmington, Delaware, or Norfolk, Virginia.

Driving to Salisbury, approximately 30 miles away, is the most common route. This journey typically involves using US-113, a major north-south artery. Depending on traffic, the drive can take around 45 minutes to an hour. The route is generally straightforward, but potential delays can arise during peak hours or due to accidents. The availability of multiple lanes on US-113 mitigates some congestion.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients might need to travel to Wilmington, Delaware (approximately 120 miles, 2.5-3 hours) or Norfolk, Virginia (approximately 130 miles, 2.5-3 hours). These longer journeys necessitate the use of major highways like US-13, US-50, and I-95. The drive times are significant, and the potential for fatigue and increased stress during travel should be considered.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but weather events, such as heavy rain or snow, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Regular vehicle maintenance and awareness of weather forecasts are crucial for safe transportation. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the increased travel burden for specialized care, acknowledging the impact on patient well-being.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in 21851 are limited. The Shore Transit system provides some bus services within Worcester County, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on local travel. Accessing healthcare facilities in Salisbury via public transit requires careful planning and potentially multiple transfers.

The Shore Transit Route 601 (Pocomoke City to Salisbury) is the most relevant route. It operates on a limited schedule, with buses running several times a day. The journey time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, significantly longer than driving. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are available on Shore Transit buses, ensuring ADA compliance. However, the limited frequency and extended travel times pose significant challenges for patients requiring frequent medical appointments or facing urgent situations.

Public transportation’s impact on the Lung Cancer Score is substantial. The extended travel times and limited service frequency make it a less viable option for many individuals, especially those undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms requiring immediate attention. This highlights the importance of considering alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. Ride-sharing options are more readily available in Salisbury, but may be less accessible in Pocomoke City, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, posing a financial burden for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer specialized assistance for patients needing transportation to and from medical appointments. Several providers serve the area, including local ambulance services and private companies. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and can be scheduled in advance. However, availability and cost vary, and it is crucial to research and compare providers.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. While these options provide valuable alternatives to driving or public transit, their reliability, cost, and availability must be carefully evaluated.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The primary healthcare provider in Pocomoke City is the McCready Health system. While McCready Health provides primary care services, it does not have a comprehensive cancer center. Patients requiring specialized oncology care, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up, must travel to facilities in Salisbury, Wilmington, or Norfolk.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists, is a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score. The distance to these specialists impacts the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. The score considers the potential delays in accessing care due to travel time and the availability of specialists.

For individuals considering moving to Pocomoke City, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of planning for transportation, identifying healthcare providers, and assessing the availability of support services. This information empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can receive timely and appropriate care.

**Lung Cancer Score Summary:**

Based on the factors analyzed, the Lung Cancer Score for 21851 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the drive to Salisbury offers a relatively accessible option for some care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges. The need to travel further for specialized care, combined with the variability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, further impacts the score.

The Lung Cancer Score emphasizes the importance of:

* **Planning:** Anticipating transportation needs and scheduling appointments accordingly.
* **Research:** Identifying healthcare providers and understanding their services.
* **Preparation:** Considering the financial implications of transportation costs.
* **Support:** Exploring available resources, such as support groups and patient advocacy organizations.

Moving to Pocomoke City requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The Lung Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating the challenges and opportunities, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and ensure they receive the care they need. This analysis underscores the need for comprehensive healthcare planning, emphasizing the importance of transportation as a critical component of healthcare access.