21913, Cecilton, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21913, Cecilton, Maryland is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.15 percent of residents in 21913 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Md Harford Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.36 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21913

The journey to quality healthcare, especially for those facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer, can be a daunting one. In the rural expanse of Cecilton, Maryland, ZIP Code 21913, geographical realities significantly shape healthcare access. This write-up provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment, examining the transportation landscape and its impact on timely and effective care. We will explore the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the healthcare system for residents of 21913, focusing on the critical element of transportation.

The Lung Cancer Score for 21913 hinges on the interplay between available transportation options and the proximity of specialized medical facilities. This score reflects the ease or difficulty residents experience in reaching crucial appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. Factors like drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall assessment.

For residents of 21913, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The area is largely car-dependent, with limited public transportation infrastructure. Driving times to the nearest hospitals and cancer centers are therefore pivotal. The primary routes for accessing healthcare in the region involve navigating the network of highways and roads.

Heading south, a drive to Union Hospital in Elkton, Maryland, typically involves taking Route 213 south. This route, while generally straightforward, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially adding significant time to the commute. The distance is approximately 15 miles, translating to a drive time of roughly 20 to 30 minutes under ideal conditions.

Further afield, the journey to ChristianaCare’s Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute in Newark, Delaware, presents a more complex logistical challenge. This trip involves taking Route 213 south, merging onto Route 40 east, and then navigating the I-95 corridor. The distance is approximately 30 miles, but the travel time can fluctuate dramatically, often exceeding an hour, especially during rush hour. This longer commute can pose a significant burden for patients undergoing treatment, requiring frequent visits.

Public transportation options in 21913 are limited. Cecil County's public transit system, Cecil Transit, offers some routes, but they are infrequent and may not directly serve major healthcare facilities. Moreover, ADA accessibility, while mandated, can still present challenges in terms of route coverage and schedule flexibility. Patients with mobility limitations may find it difficult to rely on public transit for their healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 21913, but their reliability and cost can vary. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in the more rural areas of the ZIP code, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate rapidly, particularly for frequent appointments and treatments, creating a financial strain on patients.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Transit or MedStar Mobile Healthcare may operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, availability and scheduling can be constraints, and the cost can be a factor for some.

The Lung Cancer Score for 21913 is further influenced by the availability of specialized cancer care within a reasonable distance. While Union Hospital in Elkton offers some oncology services, the comprehensive cancer centers, such as the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center, provide a wider range of treatment options, including advanced therapies and clinical trials. The longer commute to these specialized centers contributes to a lower score, as it increases the burden on patients and their caregivers.

The availability of supportive services, such as cancer support groups, counseling, and patient navigation programs, also impacts the overall score. These services can help patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of cancer treatment. The accessibility of these resources, often located at or near major cancer centers, is directly linked to transportation options.

For individuals considering moving to Cecilton, Maryland, and specifically ZIP Code 21913, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare transportation. Prospective residents should factor in the commute times, the limitations of public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

The Lung Cancer Score for 21913 is not static; it can be improved through strategic interventions. Increased investment in public transportation, with a focus on routes that directly serve healthcare facilities, would significantly enhance access. Encouraging the expansion of ride-sharing services and exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers could also improve the situation.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth initiatives and expanding the availability of in-home healthcare services can reduce the need for frequent travel to healthcare facilities. This can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing treatment or those with mobility limitations.

The Lung Cancer Score for 21913 ultimately reflects the commitment of the community to ensuring that all residents have equitable access to quality healthcare. Addressing the transportation challenges is a critical step in achieving this goal. By understanding the current landscape and actively pursuing solutions, the community can improve the healthcare experience for those battling lung cancer and other serious illnesses.