21237, Rosedale, Maryland Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 21237, Rosedale, Maryland is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.92 percent of residents in 21237 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Medstar Franklin Square Medical Center with a distance of 1.04 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 21237

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as prostate cancer, is a complex equation. It involves not just the quality of medical care, but also the accessibility of that care. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 21237 (Rosedale, Maryland), focusing on how individuals navigate the system to access prostate cancer screenings, diagnoses, and treatment. We will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, all crucial factors in determining a “Prostate Cancer Score” for this community. This score, in turn, helps potential residents understand the practical realities of healthcare access when considering moving to Rosedale.

Rosedale, nestled in Baltimore County, presents a unique transportation challenge. While offering a suburban feel, it's also a short distance from the urban core of Baltimore City, providing access to a broader range of medical facilities. The primary arteries for vehicular transportation are the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), the Pulaski Highway (US-40), and the Kenwood Avenue. These roadways are essential for accessing hospitals and specialists, but their efficiency is subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Drive times to major healthcare providers vary significantly. The Johns Hopkins Hospital, a world-renowned institution for cancer care, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic on I-695 and I-83. University of Maryland Medical Center, another major player in the region, is similarly accessible, requiring a drive of about 25-35 minutes, navigating the Beltway and the Jones Falls Expressway (I-83). Closer to Rosedale, Franklin Square Hospital Center offers comprehensive services, reachable in about 10-15 minutes via the Pulaski Highway and Kenwood Avenue.

Public transit offers an alternative to driving, although its efficacy is limited by the suburban sprawl. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates bus routes throughout the area. Route 13, Route 19, and Route 23 provide service to and from Rosedale, connecting to the city's transit hubs. However, these routes can be infrequent, with extended travel times, especially when considering transfers. The MTA also provides ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. These buses have features like ramps or lifts, designated seating, and audio-visual announcements.

The Baltimore region is served by ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. These services offer a convenient, albeit potentially costly, option for transportation to medical appointments. The availability of these services, however, can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM), are also available. These specialized services cater to individuals with mobility challenges, providing door-to-door transportation and often assisting with medical equipment.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” for 21237 is influenced by these factors. The proximity to major hospitals, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation, provides a relatively favorable score. However, the reliance on private vehicles and the limitations of public transit introduce challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly on I-695, can significantly impact drive times, potentially adding stress and anxiety for patients. The infrequent nature of some bus routes and the need for transfers can also be cumbersome for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues.

When assessing the overall accessibility, the “Prostate Cancer Score” must consider the specific needs of individuals. For those who drive, the proximity to hospitals is a significant advantage. For those reliant on public transit, the limited frequency and potential travel times are a disadvantage. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but their cost can be a barrier. Medical transportation services provide specialized support, but their availability and coverage may vary.

The impact of these transportation variables extends beyond mere convenience. Delays in accessing healthcare can lead to delayed diagnoses, treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Timely access to screenings, consultations, and treatment is critical in managing prostate cancer effectively. The ability to easily and efficiently navigate the transportation system is, therefore, a crucial component of healthcare access. This is especially true for individuals with mobility limitations, those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, or those experiencing post-surgical recovery.

The decision to move to Rosedale, or any community, should include a thorough assessment of healthcare access. The “Prostate Cancer Score” is one tool that can help inform this decision. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation landscape, allowing potential residents to evaluate how easily they can access the medical care they need. The score is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment, reflecting the interplay of various transportation options and their impact on healthcare access.

Ultimately, the “Prostate Cancer Score” for 21237 reflects a mixed bag. While the proximity to major hospitals and the availability of ride-sharing services offer advantages, the reliance on private vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for traffic congestion create challenges. For individuals considering moving to Rosedale, a careful evaluation of their personal transportation needs and preferences is essential. Understanding the intricacies of the transportation landscape is paramount in ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier to a healthy and fulfilling life. The accessibility to healthcare is a key factor in the overall quality of life.