21204, Towson, Maryland Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 21204, Towson, Maryland is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.31 percent of residents in 21204 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greater Baltimore Medical Center with a distance of 0.93 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: 21204 (Towson, MD) – A Commute to Care Analysis

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, demands meticulous research. This analysis, tailored for ZIP code 21204 (Towson, Maryland), provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," a composite metric evaluating transportation accessibility to prostate cancer treatment facilities. It considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, crucial elements in navigating the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The goal is to empower individuals and families making informed decisions, particularly those considering moving to Towson and prioritizing convenient healthcare access.

The score, ranging from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent), reflects the ease and efficiency of reaching key medical centers specializing in prostate cancer care. This assessment is vital because timely and consistent access to treatment significantly impacts patient outcomes. The score will be broken down into sub-scores for each transportation mode, considering factors such as proximity, frequency, and convenience.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries serving 21204 are the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), York Road (MD-45), and Dulaney Valley Road. These roads, while offering relatively direct routes, are often subject to congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. Drive times to major hospitals, such as Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) and Johns Hopkins Hospital, are crucial.

From central 21204, a drive to GBMC, a well-regarded facility for prostate cancer care, typically takes 5-15 minutes, depending on traffic flow along York Road or Dulaney Valley Road. The Beltway can be a quicker alternative, but accidents and rush hour can significantly increase travel time.

Reaching Johns Hopkins Hospital, located in downtown Baltimore, requires navigating the Beltway and then utilizing I-83 South or local roads. This journey typically ranges from 20-40 minutes, potentially longer during peak traffic periods. The availability of parking at both hospitals is another factor to consider, with parking garages and valet services available, but often at a cost.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides bus service throughout the area. Several bus routes, including the #3, #8, and #12, traverse 21204, offering connectivity to various healthcare facilities and transfer points. The #3 bus, for example, travels along York Road, providing access to GBMC and other medical offices.

While public transit offers a cost-effective alternative to driving, it is important to consider travel times. Bus journeys often take longer than driving, and the frequency of service can vary depending on the route and time of day. Waiting times at bus stops and potential transfers can add to the overall commute duration.

The MTA provides ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, it is essential to verify the accessibility features of specific routes and stops, as well as to plan for potential delays.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in 21204. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, particularly for those who prefer door-to-door transportation. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it can be a valuable option for individuals with mobility limitations or those who prefer not to drive.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar Mobile Healthcare and private companies, cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services provide specialized transportation, often including trained medical personnel, to ensure safe and comfortable travel to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly valuable for patients who require assistance with mobility or medical monitoring during transport.

**Prostate Cancer Score Breakdown:**

* **Drive Time:** 4/5 (Relatively short drives to GBMC, but longer to Johns Hopkins, with potential for traffic delays.)
* **Public Transit:** 3/5 (Adequate bus service, but travel times can be longer, and frequency varies.)
* **Ride-Share/Medical Transport:** 4/5 (Readily available ride-sharing services and medical transport options provide convenient alternatives.)

**Overall Prostate Cancer Score for 21204: 3.67/5**

This score indicates that 21204 offers relatively good access to prostate cancer care, with a combination of convenient drive times, accessible public transit, and readily available ride-sharing and medical transport options.

**Considerations for Patients:**

Individuals with prostate cancer, or those at risk, should consider several factors when assessing transportation options. The stage of the disease, treatment type, and frequency of appointments will influence the importance of each transportation mode. For example, patients undergoing radiation therapy may require daily transportation, making proximity to a treatment center and convenient transportation options critical.

The ability to drive, physical limitations, and financial constraints also play a role. Patients who are unable to drive or have limited mobility may rely on public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport services. Financial considerations will impact the choice between driving, public transit, and ride-sharing.

**Making the Right Choice:**

Choosing the right transportation option is a personal decision. The "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating the transportation landscape in 21204. However, individuals should also consider their specific needs and preferences.

Before making a decision about moving to Towson, or selecting a treatment facility, it is essential to research the available transportation options and determine which best meets individual needs. Contacting local hospitals and transportation providers to inquire about specific services and costs is also recommended.

The goal is to ensure that patients have easy access to the care they need, minimizing stress and maximizing their focus on recovery. This analysis helps facilitate informed decisions, promoting a smoother transition and empowering individuals to navigate the healthcare system effectively. The ultimate aim is to support patients in receiving timely and effective treatment, leading to improved outcomes and a better quality of life.