04027, Lebanon, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04027, Lebanon, Maine is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.55 percent of residents in 04027 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is York Hospital with a distance of 21.94 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04027**

The quest for optimal healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially when navigating the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 04027 (Lebanon, Maine), examining the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This "Breast Cancer Score" provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access, particularly for those facing breast cancer treatment.

Lebanon, Maine, a town characterized by its rural setting, presents unique transportation challenges. The availability of public transit is limited, and the reliance on personal vehicles is substantial. The distance to specialized medical facilities, including those offering comprehensive breast cancer care, is a significant factor.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads to Care**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from 04027 are Route 202, Route 11, and Route 202A. These roads connect Lebanon to larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialized clinics are located. The drive time to the nearest major medical centers can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within Lebanon.

For example, a drive to Frisbie Memorial Hospital in Rochester, New Hampshire, a facility offering comprehensive cancer care, involves traveling along Route 202. The drive typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. This is a relatively manageable commute, but it’s important to factor in potential delays, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

Another critical destination is the Portsmouth Regional Hospital in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. This journey typically involves traveling on Route 202 and then transitioning to the Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16). The drive time can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute underscores the importance of considering travel time when evaluating healthcare access.

The drive to Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine, a major tertiary care center, is considerably longer. This trip involves taking Route 202 and then connecting to the Maine Turnpike (I-95). The drive time can easily exceed an hour and a half, making it a significant undertaking, particularly for frequent appointments or treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Lebanon are extremely limited. There is no direct public bus service within the town itself. The availability of public transit to access healthcare is severely restricted.

The closest public transit options are located in neighboring towns, such as Rochester, New Hampshire. However, even these services may not provide direct routes to medical facilities. The limited public transportation options underscore the reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access in this area.

ADA accessibility for public transit is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The availability of accessible routes and vehicles varies depending on the specific transit provider. Individuals requiring accessible transportation should research the specific accessibility features of any available public transit options.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Exploring Alternatives**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations within Lebanon. The cost of ride-sharing services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and may be equipped with medical equipment. However, the availability and cost of medical transportation services can vary.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region. These include companies that specialize in non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or do not have access to other forms of transportation.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Evaluation**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 04027 reflects the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for long drive times to specialized medical facilities are significant considerations.

For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the ability to access timely and convenient care is paramount. The transportation challenges in Lebanon can create additional stress and burden during an already difficult time.

When considering a move to Lebanon, it is essential to carefully evaluate the transportation options and the potential impact on healthcare access. Individuals should research the availability of medical services, the drive times to those services, and the cost of transportation.

**Moving to Lebanon: A Comprehensive Perspective**

The decision to move to Lebanon requires a comprehensive assessment of all factors, including healthcare access. While the town offers a rural lifestyle, the transportation challenges can significantly impact access to essential medical services.

Prospective residents should carefully consider their healthcare needs and the transportation options available to meet those needs. Researching the availability of medical services, the drive times to those services, and the cost of transportation is crucial.

The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for evaluating healthcare access in 04027. It highlights the importance of considering transportation options when making decisions about healthcare and relocation.

The ability to access timely and convenient care is a fundamental aspect of healthcare. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for individuals facing breast cancer or other medical challenges. This analysis provides a foundation for informed decision-making and the pursuit of optimal healthcare access.