20684, Saint Inigoes, Maryland Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 20684, Saint Inigoes, Maryland is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

95.37 percent of residents in 20684 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Saint Mary's Hospital with a distance of 15.95 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Inigoes, MD (ZIP Code 20684)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare needs, is complex. For those contemplating a move to Saint Inigoes, Maryland (ZIP Code 20684), understanding the landscape of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, particularly concerning prostate cancer care, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, offering a clearer picture for informed decision-making.

Saint Inigoes, a serene peninsula in St. Mary's County, offers a tranquil setting, but its relative remoteness demands careful consideration of healthcare logistics. Prostate cancer, a prevalent concern for men, requires regular screenings, timely diagnoses, and potentially complex treatment regimens. Therefore, the ability to reach qualified medical professionals and facilities is crucial.

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

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents of Saint Inigoes will be personal vehicles. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours.

The closest hospital with comprehensive cancer care, including urology and oncology services, is MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown. The most direct route involves taking Saint Inigoes Road, which transitions into Point Lookout Road. From there, the drive continues onto MD-5 (Point Lookout Road) and then to MD-235 (Three Notch Road), leading directly to the hospital. Under ideal conditions, this journey takes approximately 25-35 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly weekday mornings and afternoons, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour, especially near the intersection of MD-235 and FDR Boulevard.

Another viable option for specialized care, including radiation oncology, is Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis. This is a considerably longer drive, spanning approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. The route involves taking MD-5 north, merging onto US-301 North, and then connecting to US-50 East towards Annapolis. This journey includes navigating the often-congested US-301 corridor and the approaches to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, making it a less convenient choice for routine appointments.

The University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore offers advanced prostate cancer treatment options, including specialized surgical procedures and clinical trials. Reaching this facility necessitates a drive of roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The route involves taking MD-5 north to US-301 North, then merging onto I-97 North, and finally connecting to I-695 (the Baltimore Beltway) before reaching the hospital. This commute is a significant undertaking, involving multiple highways and the potential for heavy traffic, especially around the Baltimore area.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public **transportation** options in Saint Inigoes and the surrounding areas are limited. The St. Mary's County Transit System (SMCTS) offers bus services, but routes and schedules are not designed to facilitate frequent trips to healthcare facilities outside the immediate Leonardtown area.

SMCTS Route 1, the Leonardtown Connector, provides service within Leonardtown and offers some connection to the MedStar St. Mary's Hospital. However, this route may not be ideal for patients needing regular appointments or those residing in more remote parts of Saint Inigoes.

Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. While SMCTS strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the frequency of service and the availability of accessible stops may pose challenges for some patients. The lack of direct routes to specialized cancer centers in Annapolis or Baltimore further limits the usefulness of public transit for prostate cancer care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in St. Mary's County, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas like Saint Inigoes, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent appointments or long-distance trips to facilities in Annapolis or Baltimore.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more reliable option. Companies like Firstat Nursing Services, and others, provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing but offer greater peace of mind and can accommodate specific medical needs. However, the availability of these services and their coverage area should be verified before moving to Saint Inigoes.

**Healthcare Access: A Balancing Act**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Saint Inigoes reflects a mixed picture. While MedStar St. Mary's Hospital offers accessible care within a reasonable drive time, access to specialized treatments and advanced facilities in Annapolis and Baltimore requires significant travel. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly ride-sharing/medical transport services pose challenges.

The availability of local primary care physicians and urologists in the Leonardtown area is a positive factor. However, the need for specialized cancer care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers.

**Moving to Saint Inigoes: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering a move to Saint Inigoes, the "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning. Prospective residents should:

* Assess their current and anticipated healthcare needs.
* Evaluate their ability to drive or access alternative **transportation**.
* Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* Confirm the insurance coverage for out-of-network care if specialized treatment is required outside of Leonardtown.
* Consider the proximity of family and friends who can provide support with **transportation** and appointments.

The beauty and tranquility of Saint Inigoes are undeniable. However, a thorough understanding of the **healthcare access** landscape, particularly regarding prostate cancer care, is crucial for making an informed decision about relocating to this unique community. The ability to navigate the **transportation** options and access timely medical care is paramount for maintaining quality of life and ensuring optimal health outcomes.