20744, Fort Washington, Maryland Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 20744, Fort Washington, Maryland is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.87 percent of residents in 20744 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventist Healthcare Fort Washington Medical Ctr with a distance of 1.94 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fort Washington, MD (ZIP Code 20744)**

Considering a move to Fort Washington, Maryland, and concerned about prostate cancer healthcare access? This assessment provides a detailed overview of transportation options and healthcare facilities within and around ZIP code 20744, offering insights into the ease of accessing critical medical services. The goal is to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" based on transportation availability, drive times, and overall healthcare access, helping prospective residents make informed decisions.

The score considers the availability of urologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists crucial in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. It evaluates the efficiency of reaching these specialists using various transportation modes, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

Fort Washington, a suburban community in Prince George's County, relies heavily on vehicular transportation. The primary thoroughfare, the Capital Beltway (I-95/I-495), forms the northern and western boundaries, providing access to the broader Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Commuting to healthcare appointments often involves navigating this major highway.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. During peak hours, the Beltway can become congested, potentially extending travel times considerably. The MD-210 (Indian Head Highway) serves as a vital north-south artery, offering direct access to local businesses and medical offices. Expect a 15-30 minute drive to the nearest hospitals, like MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton, MD, depending on traffic.

The drive to hospitals in Washington, D.C., such as MedStar Washington Hospital Center, could take 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic on the Beltway and the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. Consider the time it takes to navigate the bridge, which can be a bottleneck.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Metro and Buses**

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, but its impact on healthcare access in Fort Washington is limited. The Washington Metropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), or Metro, operates the region's subway system. The nearest Metro station, Branch Avenue, is a significant distance from most of Fort Washington.

Accessing the Metro requires a bus connection, usually via the Metrobus system. The P12 and P18 routes are the primary bus lines serving Fort Washington, connecting residents to the Branch Avenue Metro station. However, the bus rides can be lengthy, and transfers add to the overall travel time.

ADA accessibility on Metro buses and trains is generally good, with ramps, elevators, and designated seating. However, the reliance on bus connections and the distance to the Metro station can pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those undergoing cancer treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. They offer door-to-door service, eliminating the need for parking or navigating complex routes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with healthcare needs. Companies like Logisticare and Access Transportation offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and may have eligibility requirements.

**Healthcare Facilities and Specialist Availability**

The availability of specialized healthcare services is a crucial factor in the Prostate Cancer Score. While Fort Washington itself has limited specialized medical facilities, the surrounding areas offer a range of options.

MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton, MD, provides comprehensive healthcare services, including urology and oncology. The drive time from Fort Washington is generally 15-30 minutes. Hospitals in Washington, D.C., offer a wider range of specialists and advanced treatment options, but they are further away.

**Prostate Cancer Score Calculation**

The Prostate Cancer Score is a subjective assessment based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Shorter drive times to healthcare facilities receive higher scores.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Easy access to public transit, with minimal transfers, improves the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Availability:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation enhance the score.
* **Specialist Availability:** The proximity and range of specialists, including urologists and radiation oncologists, positively impact the score.

**Score Breakdown for Fort Washington (ZIP Code 20744)**

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. While major roadways are accessible, traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, particularly on the Beltway.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. The distance to the Metro and the reliance on bus connections reduce the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Good. Uber, Lyft, and medical transportation services are available, offering convenient alternatives.
* **Specialist Availability:** Moderate. While local hospitals offer some services, access to a broader range of specialists requires travel to hospitals in D.C. or other surrounding areas.

**Overall Prostate Cancer Score: Fair**

Fort Washington receives a "Fair" Prostate Cancer Score. While transportation options exist, the reliance on driving and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services improves accessibility. The proximity of healthcare facilities in Clinton, MD, offers convenient options, but accessing a wider range of specialists may require longer travel times.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

* **Assess Individual Needs:** Consider your specific healthcare requirements and the frequency of appointments.
* **Factor in Commute Times:** Account for traffic congestion when planning travel to healthcare facilities.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of driving, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify urologists, oncologists, and other specialists in the area.
* **Plan for Future Needs:** Consider the potential for needing specialized care and the associated travel requirements.

**Conclusion: Informed Healthcare Decisions**

Moving to Fort Washington offers a suburban lifestyle, but healthcare access requires careful consideration. This "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating transportation and healthcare options, empowering prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, individuals can proactively plan for their healthcare journey, ensuring access to timely and effective prostate cancer care. The success of your healthcare plan relies on understanding the nuances of transportation and the availability of specialists, making this assessment a crucial tool for anyone considering moving to Fort Washington.