21875, Delmar, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21875, Delmar, Maryland is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.85 percent of residents in 21875 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Peninsula Regional Medical Center with a distance of 5.87 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 21875

The air hangs heavy with the scent of salt and possibility in ZIP Code 21875, encompassing the charming town of Delmar, Maryland, straddling the state line with Delaware. For those considering a move, or already residing here, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up delves into the specifics of navigating the transportation landscape, particularly concerning lung cancer treatment, and presents a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities for timely care.

Delmar, nestled in the heart of the Delmarva Peninsula, presents a unique healthcare access puzzle. The town's relative isolation, coupled with its modest public transportation infrastructure, demands a careful assessment of transportation options. The proximity to both Maryland and Delaware healthcare systems offers choices, but necessitates understanding the logistical hurdles involved in reaching those facilities.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Framework**

Our "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical metric, but rather a composite assessment of transportation factors impacting timely lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. Each category is weighted based on its impact on the patient's ability to access crucial care. A higher score indicates greater accessibility, while a lower score suggests significant transportation challenges.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Delmar is undoubtedly the automobile. Driving times to healthcare facilities are crucial for lung cancer patients, where early diagnosis and treatment are vital. The major roadways serving Delmar are US Route 13, a bustling north-south artery, and US Route 50, providing east-west access.

For initial consultations and diagnostic imaging, patients in Delmar typically seek services at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury, Maryland. The drive via US Route 13 is generally a 20-30 minute journey, depending on traffic. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the Lung Cancer Score, as it allows for prompt access to diagnostic tools like CT scans and biopsies.

Treatment options, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, are also available at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional. The same drive time applies. However, the frequency of these treatments, often weekly or even daily, underscores the importance of reliable and convenient transportation.

Further afield, for specialized care or clinical trials, patients might need to travel to larger medical centers like Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, or ChristianaCare in Newark, Delaware. The drive to Baltimore, primarily via US Route 50 and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, significantly impacting the Lung Cancer Score. The journey to Newark, typically via US Route 13, is shorter, around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a slightly better score.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation in Delmar and its surrounding areas is limited, posing a significant challenge for healthcare access. The Shore Transit bus system offers some service within Wicomico County, Maryland, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on serving Salisbury. The bus service does not extend into Delaware.

While the Shore Transit does offer some routes that could be used to access TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, the schedules are often not conducive to medical appointments. The limited frequency and potential for delays negatively affect the Lung Cancer Score. Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features on buses are crucial for patients undergoing treatment, but the availability of these features and the overall suitability of public transit for frequent medical appointments require careful consideration.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Delmar, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. This adds a moderate positive impact to the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve trained personnel and specialized vehicles, providing a safer and more comfortable experience for patients. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance and level of care required. While these services improve the Lung Cancer Score, their availability and cost remain crucial considerations.

**Medical Transport Brands**

* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Provides non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including stretcher transport and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **Local Private Providers:** Numerous smaller companies offer NEMT services, often specializing in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and patient transport.

**The Lung Cancer Score for 21875: A Synthesis**

Considering all factors, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 21875, specifically regarding lung cancer treatment, is moderately positive. The relatively short drive time to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional for initial diagnosis and treatment offers a significant advantage. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services detract from the score. The availability of medical transport services provides a critical safety net, but the associated costs must be considered.

**Moving to Delmar: Healthcare Considerations**

For those considering a move to Delmar, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. While the town offers a charming lifestyle, the need for frequent medical appointments necessitates careful planning. Assessing personal transportation capabilities, exploring ride-sharing options, and researching the availability and cost of medical transport services are essential.

Furthermore, researching the specific healthcare needs of each individual is vital. Lung cancer patients should discuss their transportation needs with their medical team and consider the proximity to specialized treatment centers.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Delmar, Maryland, requires a proactive approach. While the town offers a peaceful setting, the transportation challenges necessitate careful planning, especially for those facing lung cancer. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the potential of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services is critical for ensuring timely access to care. By carefully considering these factors, residents of 21875 can navigate the journey to healthcare with greater confidence and peace of mind.