21903, Perryville, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21903, Perryville, Maryland is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.76 percent of residents in 21903 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 University Of Md Harford Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.34 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21903 (Perryville, MD)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis hangs heavy, demanding swift and efficient access to specialized care. In the heart of Maryland's Cecil County, the ZIP code 21903, encompassing Perryville, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape, a crucial determinant of timely diagnosis and treatment, for individuals residing in or considering moving to Perryville. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, painting a detailed picture of the journey to potentially life-saving healthcare.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is often the automobile. For residents of 21903, the most direct route to major medical centers often involves navigating the familiar asphalt of I-95. Heading south, the drive to Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware, a regional hub for cancer care, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey unfolds along I-95 South, a major artery, then involves a brief transition onto DE-7 South.

Alternatively, heading north on I-95, the drive to the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health in Bel Air, Maryland, a facility offering comprehensive cancer services, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. The route entails a straightforward journey on I-95 North, followed by a short exit onto MD-22. The timing is heavily influenced by rush hour, which can significantly extend these drive times, especially during weekday commutes.

For those preferring a more scenic route, or perhaps avoiding the congestion of I-95, US-40 provides an alternative. This route, while generally slower, offers a less stressful drive, especially during peak traffic hours. The drive to Christiana Hospital via US-40, then US-13, can take an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. Similarly, reaching the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health via US-40 and MD-22 can take upwards of an hour and a half.

Public transportation, an essential element of healthcare access, presents a more limited, yet viable, option in 21903. The Cecil Transit system offers local bus routes, though their reach and frequency are limited. These buses are primarily designed for local errands and may not directly connect to major hospitals. However, they can serve as a crucial link to Amtrak's Perryville Station.

Amtrak offers a more long-distance transportation alternative. While not directly providing access to hospitals, the train can transport individuals to major cities like Philadelphia or Baltimore, where specialized cancer centers are readily available. The Perryville station is generally ADA accessible, offering ramps and elevators for those with mobility challenges. However, the reliance on Amtrak necessitates coordinating transfers and potentially long waits, adding to the overall travel time and complexity.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Perryville area, offering a convenient, on-demand transportation option. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to and from medical appointments. Therefore, while offering flexibility, ride-sharing is not a guaranteed or affordable solution for every individual.

Medical transportation services, specializing in non-emergency medical transport, provide a more tailored approach. These services, such as CareRide or MedStar Mobile Healthcare, offer door-to-door transportation, often accommodating individuals with mobility limitations or other special needs. While more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing, these services provide a level of comfort and reliability that can be invaluable for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 21903 must consider the interplay of all these factors. The primary transportation method is the personal vehicle, offering the most direct access to healthcare facilities. However, the reliance on highways like I-95 introduces the variable of traffic, which can significantly impact travel times. Public transit, while present, is limited in scope and frequency, offering a less direct route. Ride-sharing provides flexibility but is subject to availability and cost. Medical transportation services offer specialized support but come at a higher price.

For individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer, the ability to quickly and reliably access specialized care is paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" in 21903, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. The proximity to major highways like I-95 provides a crucial advantage, but the reliance on a personal vehicle, the potential for traffic delays, and the limitations of public transportation all contribute to a slightly lower overall score.

Moving to Perryville, or any area, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for assessing the ease of transportation to cancer care facilities. It highlights the importance of planning for potential delays, exploring all transportation options, and being prepared to utilize specialized medical transport if needed. The journey to healthcare is a critical one, and a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential for navigating it successfully.