21153, Stevenson, Maryland Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 21153, Stevenson, Maryland is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.99 percent of residents in 21153 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northwest Hospital Center with a distance of 4.13 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stevenson, Maryland (ZIP Code 21153)

The decision to relocate, particularly to a new community like Stevenson, Maryland (ZIP Code 21153), often involves a complex calculus. Beyond schools, housing, and local amenities, the accessibility of healthcare, especially specialized care like that for prostate cancer, becomes paramount. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," considering transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for residents of this charming Baltimore County enclave.

Stevenson, a community known for its equestrian heritage and rolling hills, presents a unique transportation landscape. The area is largely car-dependent, with public transit options less readily available than in more urban settings. This reality significantly influences the ease with which residents can access crucial medical appointments, including those related to prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The foundation of our "Prostate Cancer Score" rests on the critical factor of drive times. The primary arteries serving Stevenson are the I-83 (Jones Falls Expressway) and the I-695 (Baltimore Beltway). Depending on the destination, travel on these highways can be subject to significant traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours.

For prostate cancer patients, timely access to healthcare is not just a convenience; it is a necessity. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can negatively impact outcomes. Therefore, the time required to reach medical facilities becomes a crucial determinant of our score.

One of the closest major healthcare providers is Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) in Towson. A drive to GBMC from central Stevenson typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic flow on Falls Road and the Beltway. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the score, offering patients swift access to a comprehensive medical center.

Another prominent option is Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore City. The drive to Johns Hopkins, while offering access to world-renowned specialists, is a longer journey, typically taking 30-45 minutes, often involving navigating the Beltway and I-83. This longer travel time, coupled with potential traffic delays, slightly diminishes the score.

The University of Maryland Medical Center, also in Baltimore City, presents a similar challenge. The drive, again reliant on the Beltway and potentially I-95, can consume 35-50 minutes. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration for patients undergoing treatment or requiring frequent follow-up appointments.

Public transportation, while less prevalent in Stevenson, offers an alternative, albeit a less convenient one, for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service to the area. However, the routes serving Stevenson are limited.

The number 91 bus offers service along Falls Road, providing access to Towson and connecting to other bus lines that can lead to healthcare facilities. The number 51 bus travels along Greenspring Avenue, offering another option. However, these bus routes often involve transfers and longer travel times compared to driving.

ADA accessibility on MTA buses is generally good, with ramps and designated seating. However, the extended travel times and potential for transfers can present challenges for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue. This aspect of public transit availability weighs on the score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services can be readily accessed in Stevenson, providing door-to-door service to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather, is not always guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While offering a higher level of support, medical transportation services are typically the most expensive option.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Stevenson, therefore, balances the advantages and disadvantages of these various transportation options. The score is influenced by the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of driving routes, the limitations of public transit, the convenience of ride-sharing, and the specialized support offered by medical transportation.

For a resident of Stevenson, the most readily accessible healthcare options are those within a 30-minute drive, particularly GBMC. The availability of ride-sharing services and the potential for medical transportation further enhance the score.

However, the limitations of public transit and the longer travel times to major hospitals in Baltimore City slightly diminish the score. The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for Stevenson is therefore moderately positive, reflecting a community with decent healthcare access, but one where car ownership and careful planning are essential for optimal patient outcomes.

Considering a move to Stevenson? This analysis highlights the importance of factoring in transportation when evaluating healthcare access. Prospective residents should consider their individual needs, their preferred mode of transportation, and the potential impact of travel times on their healthcare journey.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is a dynamic assessment, constantly evolving with changes in traffic patterns, public transit schedules, and the availability of transportation services. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for residents of Stevenson, ensuring they can navigate the transportation landscape effectively and maintain timely access to the healthcare they need.