21865, Tyaskin, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21865, Tyaskin, Maryland is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.33 percent of residents in 21865 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 14.77 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Tyaskin, MD (ZIP Code 21865)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, demands careful consideration. This analysis, focused on ZIP code 21865 (Tyaskin, Maryland), provides a "Lung Cancer Score" to assess the ease of accessing lung cancer-related healthcare services. This score considers transportation options, drive times, and the availability of specialized care. This assessment is crucial for individuals and families considering moving to Tyaskin, particularly those with existing or potential lung health concerns.

Tyaskin, a quaint community nestled in Wicomico County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness presents challenges when accessing specialized healthcare. The Lung Cancer Score aims to illuminate these challenges and provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape for those requiring lung cancer treatment and related services. This will help potential residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Route to Care**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Tyaskin is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The drive times to major medical centers are critical. The closest hospital with a comprehensive cancer center is Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC) in Salisbury, approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic. The journey typically involves taking **MD Route 349** north, then merging onto **US Route 50 East**. The final leg involves navigating the local roads of Salisbury to reach the hospital.

Traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Morning and evening commutes often experience congestion, potentially adding 10 to 15 minutes to the journey. Weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can further complicate travel. Snow and ice can make roads treacherous, and necessitate extra caution and potentially longer travel times.

For more specialized care, patients may need to travel further. The University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, offering advanced cancer treatments, is a significantly longer drive, approximately a 2.5- to 3-hour journey, primarily via **US Route 50 West** and **US Route 97 North**, then onto the **Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD Route 295)**. This longer distance necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Tyaskin and the surrounding areas are limited. The Wicomico County Transportation system provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. The primary route serving the area is the **Route 10** bus, which travels along **US Route 50**. This route has stops in Salisbury, but the frequency of service is limited, with buses running hourly during peak times and less frequently during off-peak hours.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. The Wicomico County Transportation system provides accessible buses with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route network and infrequent schedules can make public transit a challenging option for patients needing frequent medical appointments.

The reliance on public transportation for lung cancer patients can be a significant obstacle. The physical demands of frequent travel, combined with the potential for long wait times and transfers, can exacerbate existing health conditions and negatively impact quality of life.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Salisbury area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of drivers can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients with mobility limitations or other needs. Companies like MedStar Mobile Healthcare and various private ambulance services operate in the region, providing transportation to and from medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The availability of medical transportation is crucial for patients who cannot drive or utilize public transit. These services offer a vital lifeline, ensuring access to essential healthcare services. However, the cost and scheduling complexities associated with medical transportation can pose a significant challenge for patients with limited financial resources.

**Healthcare Access: The Lung Cancer Score's Implications**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 21865 reflects the challenges of accessing lung cancer-related healthcare. The score considers the drive times to medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The score will likely be lower than that of urban areas with more robust transportation networks and a higher concentration of medical facilities. This lower score does not necessarily mean that healthcare is inaccessible, but it does highlight the need for careful planning and consideration.

Potential residents considering moving to Tyaskin, particularly those with existing or potential lung health concerns, should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. They should research the availability of specialists, the frequency of appointments, and the potential costs associated with transportation.

**Conclusion: Planning for Healthcare in Tyaskin**

The Lung Cancer Score underscores the importance of proactive planning for healthcare access in Tyaskin. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the relative remoteness and limited transportation options require careful consideration.

Individuals considering moving to Tyaskin should research the availability of specialists, assess their transportation needs, and explore all available options. This includes utilizing personal vehicles, considering ride-sharing services, and investigating medical transportation options.

The proximity to PRMC in Salisbury provides access to a comprehensive cancer center. However, the drive times to more specialized facilities in Baltimore necessitate careful planning. Potential residents should proactively research transportation options, assess their healthcare needs, and make informed decisions to ensure access to quality lung cancer care. This proactive approach will help them navigate the transportation landscape and maintain their health and well-being in their new community.