21794, West Friendship, Maryland Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 21794, West Friendship, Maryland is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.69 percent of residents in 21794 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Howard County General Hospital with a distance of 7.12 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 21794

For residents of West Friendship, Maryland (ZIP code 21794), the specter of prostate cancer looms, demanding proactive healthcare access. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial in navigating the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This analysis unveils the Prostate Cancer Score for 21794, evaluating accessibility to critical medical resources, emphasizing the role of transportation in healthcare access.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for those seeking healthcare in the region. This information becomes especially vital for individuals considering moving to West Friendship, ensuring they can readily access the necessary medical support.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary artery for healthcare access in 21794 is the network of roadways. The most direct route to major medical centers typically involves navigating the I-70, a vital east-west corridor. Traveling east on I-70 provides access to the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, a leading institution for urological oncology. Drive times fluctuate depending on traffic, but typically range from 45 minutes to an hour, making it a feasible option for many.

Alternatively, heading west on I-70 leads to Frederick Health Hospital, offering comprehensive cancer care services. This drive is usually shorter, taking approximately 20-30 minutes, making it a more convenient option for residents in the western reaches of 21794. Other key roadways, such as MD-97 (Old Washington Road) and MD-32, provide alternative routes and connections to smaller clinics and specialists.

The drive to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, another renowned center for prostate cancer treatment, involves a combination of I-70 and I-695 (the Baltimore Beltway). This journey can take between an hour and an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic congestion. Careful planning and consideration of peak travel times are essential to ensure timely arrival for appointments and treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public transportation options in 21794 are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) does not directly serve West Friendship with fixed-route bus services. However, the Howard County Department of Transportation (HDOT) offers a demand-response service, known as the "Howard County Connect-A-Ride," providing transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

This service requires advance booking and may not always be ideal for urgent medical appointments. While the Connect-A-Ride aims to be ADA-compliant, availability and scheduling constraints can limit its effectiveness for those needing frequent or time-sensitive medical care. The lack of readily accessible public transit significantly impacts the Prostate Cancer Score, particularly for individuals unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. However, availability and pricing can vary, especially during peak hours or in areas with lower demand. Residents of 21794 may experience longer wait times or higher fares compared to urban areas.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like CareRide and MedStar Mobile Healthcare provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require pre-booking and may have associated costs. While they provide a crucial service for those with mobility limitations, their availability and cost can still pose barriers.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Synthesis of Factors**

The Prostate Cancer Score for 21794 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing major medical centers, coupled with the limited public transit options, creates a healthcare access landscape that favors those with personal transportation. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative solutions, but their limitations impact the overall score.

The score considers the proximity to major hospitals, drive times, and the availability and reliability of alternative transportation options. It also factors in the potential impact of traffic congestion and the accessibility of services for individuals with disabilities. The score aims to provide a realistic assessment of the ease with which residents can access prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

**Implications for Moving to West Friendship**

For individuals considering moving to West Friendship, the Prostate Cancer Score is a crucial consideration. Understanding the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access limitations is essential for informed decision-making. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of support services before relocating.

Consideration should be given to the distance to medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the potential impact of any mobility limitations. Planning for healthcare access, including pre-arranging transportation for appointments and treatments, is a vital part of the transition.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

In conclusion, the Prostate Cancer Score for 21794 highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While the region offers access to excellent medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide alternative solutions, but their availability and cost can be limiting factors.

For residents and those considering moving to West Friendship, proactive planning and a clear understanding of the transportation landscape are essential for ensuring timely access to prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Prioritizing healthcare access through careful consideration of transportation options is crucial for maintaining well-being and quality of life in this community. The ongoing development of transportation infrastructure and the expansion of accessible healthcare services will be vital in improving the Prostate Cancer Score for 21794 and enhancing the healthcare experience for all residents.