21545, Mount Savage, Maryland Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 21545, Mount Savage, Maryland is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.62 percent of residents in 21545 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Western Maryland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.35 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21545 (Mount Savage, MD)

The decision to relocate, especially when facing a health concern like prostate cancer, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access. This write-up, specifically tailored for residents and prospective residents of ZIP Code 21545 (Mount Savage, Maryland), provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" framework. It considers the nuances of transportation, healthcare access, and the realities of daily life, helping you navigate the complexities of care. This score is not a definitive medical assessment, but rather a guide to understanding the practicalities of receiving treatment in this specific location.

Mount Savage, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Its rural setting impacts transportation, demanding careful consideration for those requiring regular medical appointments. The "Prostate Cancer Score" will examine the ease of reaching specialists, the availability of support services, and the overall feasibility of maintaining a high quality of life while undergoing treatment.

**The Score Components:**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is based on several key components, each weighted to reflect its importance in accessing care:

* **Drive Time to Specialist Care (40%):** This component assesses the accessibility of urologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and other specialists crucial for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.
* **Public Transportation Availability (20%):** Evaluates the presence and reliability of public transit options, including bus routes, and their accessibility features for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services (20%):** Examines the availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and specialized medical transportation providers.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity and Quality (10%):** Assesses the location, reputation, and range of services offered by local hospitals and clinics.
* **Support Services and Community Resources (10%):** Considers the availability of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and other resources that can enhance the patient experience.

**Drive Time to Specialist Care:**

The primary challenge for residents of 21545 lies in its relative isolation. The nearest major medical centers are located in Cumberland, Maryland, and potentially in Morgantown, West Virginia, or Hagerstown, Maryland, depending on the specialist needed. The drive times are significantly impacted by the mountainous terrain and the limited road infrastructure.

The primary routes for accessing healthcare are:

* **Interstate 68 (I-68):** This is the main artery, providing the most direct route to Cumberland. Traffic flow on I-68 is generally good, but can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during winter months. The drive to UPMC Western Maryland in Cumberland, the primary healthcare provider for this region, is approximately 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
* **Maryland Route 36 (MD-36):** This road provides a more direct route to Cumberland, but is a slower, more winding road. Traffic can be heavier during peak hours, adding to the commute time.
* **US Route 40 (US-40):** This route is less frequently used for healthcare access, but it is an option for reaching facilities in Morgantown, West Virginia, or Hagerstown, Maryland. The drive times to these locations can range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the specific destination and traffic.

The drive times to specialists outside of Cumberland can be substantial, making regular appointments a significant logistical undertaking. This is a critical factor when considering the frequency of visits required for prostate cancer treatment, including diagnostic tests, radiation therapy, and follow-up appointments.

**Public Transportation Availability:**

Public transportation options in 21545 are limited. The primary provider is the Allegany CountyAllegany County Transit (ACT). ACT operates a fixed-route bus service, but service frequency is limited, and routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

* **Route 1:** This route connects Cumberland and Frostburg, passing through Mount Savage. It provides a potential option for accessing healthcare facilities in Cumberland, but the schedule may not be convenient for all appointments.
* **ADA Accessibility:** ACT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and lifts, to accommodate passengers with mobility limitations. However, the limited frequency and route coverage remain a significant challenge.

The reliance on public transportation for healthcare access in 21545 is not ideal. The limited service, combined with the potential for longer travel times, can create significant barriers to care, especially for individuals undergoing treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Cumberland area, but their availability in Mount Savage itself can be less reliable. The limited population density may result in longer wait times or higher fares.

Medical transportation services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and other private companies, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, they can be expensive, and prior arrangements are usually required.

The combination of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides a valuable supplement to public transportation, but the cost and availability must be carefully considered.

**Healthcare Facility Proximity and Quality:**

UPMC Western Maryland in Cumberland is the primary healthcare provider for residents of 21545. This hospital offers a range of services, including urology, oncology, and radiation therapy. Its proximity, approximately 15-20 minutes away, is a significant advantage.

The hospital's reputation and quality of care are generally considered good, and it is a well-equipped facility. However, the limited number of specialists in the area may require referrals to larger medical centers outside the region.

**Support Services and Community Resources:**

The availability of support services and community resources in 21545 is a crucial component of the "Prostate Cancer Score." Support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and other resources can provide valuable emotional support, practical assistance, and access to information.

The American Cancer Society and the Prostate Cancer Foundation offer resources and support services, including online information, support groups, and financial assistance. The local community may also offer additional support services, such as transportation assistance and volunteer programs.

**Calculating the "Prostate Cancer Score":**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 21545 is calculated by assigning a numerical value to each component, based on the information provided above. The weighting of each component is then applied to arrive at a final score.

For example:

* **Drive Time to Specialist Care:** 7 out of 10 (due to the relatively short drive to Cumberland, but the challenges of reaching specialists outside the area)
* **Public Transportation Availability:** 3 out of 10 (due to limited service and route coverage)
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services:** 5 out of 10 (due to variable availability and cost)
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity and Quality:** 8 out of 10 (due to the presence of UPMC Western Maryland)
* **Support Services and Community Resources:** 6 out of 10 (due to the availability of national resources and potential local support)

**Overall Score:** The final "Prostate Cancer Score" for 21545 would be based on these individual scores, weighted as described above.

**Conclusion:**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 21545 highlights the unique challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare in this rural setting. While the proximity to UPMC Western Maryland offers a significant advantage, the limitations of public transportation, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for longer travel times to specialists outside the area must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to Mount Savage, or for current residents, a proactive approach to healthcare access is essential. This includes researching transportation options, understanding the availability of support services, and establishing a strong relationship with healthcare providers. The "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating these factors and making informed decisions about your healthcare journey.