20736, Owings, Maryland Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 20736, Owings, Maryland is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.12 percent of residents in 20736 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calverthealth Medical Center with a distance of 9.40 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 20736

The journey to healthcare, especially for a condition as serious as prostate cancer, is a multifaceted equation. It’s not merely about the quality of care, but also the ease with which that care can be accessed. This write-up, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 20736 (Owings, Maryland), provides a comprehensive 'Prostate Cancer Score' assessment, considering the critical element of transportation. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of healthcare access in this community. This information is vital for current residents and those contemplating moving to Owings, ensuring informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

ZIP Code 20736, nestled in Calvert County, offers a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience. However, this geographical context significantly impacts healthcare access. The proximity to major medical centers and specialists specializing in prostate cancer treatment, a crucial factor in our score, becomes a primary consideration.

**The Road Ahead: Driving and Drive Times**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to specialized prostate cancer care often involves navigating the roadways. Driving times, influenced by traffic and distance, become a key metric.

Heading north, Route 2 (Solomons Island Road) provides a primary artery. Driving north on Route 2 leads to Annapolis, where the Anne Arundel Medical Center is located. A drive from Owings to Annapolis, approximately 30 miles, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The drive on Route 2 can become particularly congested during peak commuting hours, especially near Annapolis.

Alternatively, heading west on Route 4 (Southern Maryland Boulevard) offers access to Washington, D.C., and the surrounding metropolitan area. This route provides access to larger hospitals, such as MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and Johns Hopkins Hospital. However, this route is also subject to heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour. A drive to Washington, D.C., can take up to an hour and a half, depending on the destination within the city.

Another option is Route 260 (Chesapeake Beach Road). This road offers a more direct route to the Chesapeake Bay area, but it may not be the most direct route to major hospitals specializing in prostate cancer care.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 20736 are limited. The primary public transit service in the area is the Calvert County Transit System. However, the system's routes and schedules may not be optimal for frequent trips to specialized prostate cancer care facilities.

The Calvert County Transit System offers fixed-route bus services and demand-response services. The fixed-route services primarily operate within Calvert County, while the demand-response services are available to residents who need transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other essential destinations.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. The Calvert County Transit System is committed to providing accessible transportation options, including wheelchair-accessible buses and services for passengers with mobility impairments. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for advance booking for demand-response services can present challenges for patients requiring frequent medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in ZIP Code 20736. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who are unable to drive or prefer not to. The availability of ride-sharing services can be a significant advantage for patients needing transportation to and from medical appointments.

However, the cost of ride-sharing services can be a barrier for some patients. The cost of a ride to Annapolis or Washington, D.C., can be substantial, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services are also available in the area. These services specialize in providing transportation for patients with medical needs, including those who require assistance with mobility or have other medical conditions. Medical transportation services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate patients with wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

**Medical Transportation Brands**

* **MedStar Mobile Healthcare:** Provides ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation services.
* **CareRide:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Response Medical Transportation:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation services.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for ZIP Code 20736 must consider the limitations of transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall score.

For residents of Owings, the score is tempered by the need to travel to larger medical centers, which can significantly increase the time and cost associated with healthcare access. This is particularly relevant for patients undergoing frequent treatments or requiring specialized care.

The score is elevated by the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options, which can provide a lifeline for patients who cannot drive or require assistance with transportation. The commitment of the Calvert County Transit System to providing accessible transportation options also contributes positively to the score.

**Moving to Owings: A Considered Decision**

For those considering moving to Owings, understanding the 'Prostate Cancer Score' is crucial. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the challenges of healthcare access must be carefully weighed. Individuals with a history of prostate cancer or those at high risk should carefully assess the transportation options and the proximity to specialized medical care. Planning for potential transportation challenges is essential.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' is not simply a numerical value; it's a reflection of the lived experience of individuals navigating the healthcare system. It highlights the critical role of transportation in healthcare access. For residents of ZIP Code 20736, understanding these complexities empowers them to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.