21219, Sparrows Point, Maryland Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 21219, Sparrows Point, Maryland is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.80 percent of residents in 21219 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center with a distance of 7.02 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 21219**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as prostate cancer, is a critical factor in a patient’s well-being. This analysis focuses on the accessibility of prostate cancer care for residents of ZIP Code 21219, a region increasingly associated with the revitalized Sparrows Point area, considering the multifaceted aspects of transportation. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount for evaluating healthcare access and its impact on patient outcomes.

ZIP Code 21219, encompassing portions of Dundalk and Sparrows Point, presents a unique blend of urban and suburban characteristics. The area’s healthcare access is significantly influenced by its proximity to Baltimore City and the surrounding counties. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to provide a comprehensive 'Prostate Cancer Score' for the area.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

For residents of 21219, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are the major highways and roads. The most direct route to many Baltimore City hospitals, including Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center, involves utilizing the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) and I-95.

Traveling west on I-695 provides access to hospitals located in the city, while heading south on I-95 also leads to facilities like the University of Maryland Medical Center. The journey can be affected by traffic, particularly during peak hours. The travel time to these major healthcare centers typically ranges from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the specific destination and traffic conditions.

Alternatively, residents can utilize local roads such as North Point Boulevard and Merritt Boulevard, which offer access to local hospitals and clinics. These routes are generally less congested than the interstates but may involve more stop-and-go traffic. The drive time on these roads to local healthcare facilities is typically between 15 and 30 minutes.

The drive time element is crucial for prostate cancer patients, as frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care are common. Delays in transportation can significantly impact a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan and increase stress levels.

**Public Transit Pathways**

Public transportation provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates several bus routes that serve the 21219 area.

The primary routes include the CityLink Navy and the Route 15. These buses provide direct access to downtown Baltimore, where many major hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located. The CityLink Navy route is a key connector for residents of 21219, providing access to the city's healthcare hubs.

The Route 15 bus offers a more direct route to some medical facilities located in the eastern part of Baltimore. While the frequency of service varies depending on the time of day and day of the week, these routes provide a viable option for those seeking to access healthcare.

The MTA also provides ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, the overall travel time using public transportation is typically longer than driving, often requiring transfers and longer wait times. This is an important consideration for patients who may be experiencing fatigue or other symptoms associated with prostate cancer treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option for residents of 21219. These services provide on-demand transportation to and from healthcare facilities. Ride-sharing can be a convenient option for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle or who prefer not to drive.

The availability of ride-sharing services is generally good in the 21219 area, with wait times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes. The cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the distance and time of day.

In addition to ride-sharing services, medical transportation companies specialize in providing transportation for patients to and from medical appointments. These companies often offer specialized services, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and assistance with boarding and disembarking.

Medical transportation services can be particularly helpful for patients who have mobility issues or who require assistance with transportation. However, these services typically require advance booking and may be more expensive than ride-sharing services.

**The Sparrows Point Factor**

The revitalization of Sparrows Point is bringing new residential developments and economic opportunities to the 21219 area. This influx of new residents is likely to increase the demand for healthcare services.

The development of new healthcare facilities in the Sparrows Point area would significantly improve healthcare access for residents. The construction of new hospitals or clinics would reduce drive times and improve the convenience of accessing care.

The proximity of Sparrows Point to major healthcare centers in Baltimore City makes it a desirable location for those seeking specialized medical care. The accessibility of healthcare is a crucial factor for residents considering moving to Sparrows Point.

**Prostate Cancer Score Considerations**

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for 21219 is influenced by several factors. Drive times to major hospitals and cancer centers are a key consideration. The availability and reliability of public transit are also important. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide additional options.

The score should also consider the patient's individual circumstances, such as their mobility, financial resources, and access to social support. The score should reflect the overall ease with which residents of 21219 can access the healthcare they need.

The ongoing development of Sparrows Point and the potential for new healthcare facilities in the area will significantly impact the 'Prostate Cancer Score' in the future. The ability to access timely and convenient healthcare is essential for the well-being of prostate cancer patients. The transportation infrastructure in 21219 plays a crucial role in ensuring that residents have access to the care they need.