20839, Beallsville, Maryland Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 20839, Beallsville, Maryland is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 20839 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holy Cross Germantown Hospital with a distance of 9.10 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Beallsville (ZIP Code 20839)

The bucolic charm of Beallsville, Maryland, nestled within ZIP code 20839, offers a respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. Rolling hills, verdant farmland, and a palpable sense of community beckon those seeking a slower rhythm. However, when considering a move, especially for those approaching or navigating the complexities of prostate cancer, a critical aspect demands scrutiny: **healthcare access**. This report, a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the realities of **transportation** options and their impact on accessing vital healthcare services for residents of 20839.

Prostate cancer, a prevalent disease among men, necessitates regular screenings, timely diagnoses, and often, ongoing treatment. The ability to readily access specialized medical care is paramount. This assessment considers the multifaceted landscape of **transportation** options available to residents, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking prostate cancer care in this rural setting, thereby informing decisions about **moving to Beallsville**.

The primary challenge for Beallsville residents lies in its relative isolation. The nearest major medical centers, equipped with comprehensive urology departments and advanced cancer treatment facilities, are located in the larger metropolitan areas surrounding Montgomery County. This distance translates directly into increased travel time, impacting the ease and convenience of attending appointments, undergoing treatments, and receiving follow-up care.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the journey to healthcare facilities becomes a critical consideration. The primary arteries connecting Beallsville to the wider world are **MD-28 (Darnestown Road)**, **MD-109 (Old Hundred Road)**, and to a lesser extent, **MD-80 (Wayside Inn Road)**. These roads, while scenic, can become congested during peak hours, adding to travel times.

To reach the major hospitals in Rockville, such as Suburban Hospital or Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic, is typical. The route often involves navigating **MD-28** east, connecting to **I-270 South**. This stretch of **I-270**, a major commuter route, is notorious for its rush-hour gridlock, potentially extending travel times significantly.

Alternatively, heading west on **MD-109** and then south on **US-15** offers an alternative route to Frederick, Maryland, where Frederick Health Hospital provides urology services. This drive, usually taking around 30-40 minutes, bypasses some of the **I-270** congestion but can still be affected by traffic on **US-15**.

For those requiring specialized cancer treatment, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy, the commute to facilities like the Johns Hopkins Suburban Hospital Cancer Center in Rockville or the MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute in Washington, D.C., becomes even more demanding. These trips, potentially occurring multiple times a week, can significantly impact the patient's physical and emotional well-being.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Beallsville are limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access**. The Montgomery County Ride On bus system provides some service in the surrounding areas, but direct routes into Beallsville are scarce.

The closest Ride On routes typically operate along **MD-28**, requiring residents to drive to a designated stop or rely on a ride-sharing service to reach the bus. The frequency of these routes is often limited, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, making it challenging to coordinate appointments and treatment schedules.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on these buses, such as ramps and designated seating, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the reliability and accessibility of these features can vary, further complicating the **transportation** equation. Information on specific route numbers and ADA features can be found on the Montgomery County Ride On website.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible **transportation** option for residents of 20839. While not always readily available in rural areas, the presence of these services provides a degree of convenience for those without access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments and treatments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by specialized companies, provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility challenges or those unable to drive themselves. These services typically offer door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles, and can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Some of the medical transport brands serving the area include but aren't limited to, American Medical Response and CareRide. The availability and cost of these services should be carefully considered when assessing **healthcare access** in Beallsville.

**The Score and the Decision**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Beallsville, based on the factors outlined above, would be considered moderate. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the challenges of **transportation** significantly impact **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals managing prostate cancer.

The score reflects the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost and availability constraints of ride-sharing and medical **transportation**. The drive times to major medical centers, the potential for traffic delays, and the need to coordinate **transportation** for frequent appointments all contribute to the complexity of accessing care.

For individuals considering **moving to Beallsville**, especially those with existing or potential prostate cancer concerns, a thorough evaluation of their **transportation** needs and financial resources is essential. The ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, and the willingness to utilize ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services are critical considerations.

Furthermore, exploring the availability of telehealth services, which allow for remote consultations and monitoring, can help mitigate the challenges of long-distance travel. The integration of technology, coupled with careful planning and proactive engagement with healthcare providers, can help optimize **healthcare access** for residents of 20839, ensuring they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.