04047, Parsonsfield, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04047, Parsonsfield, Maine is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.76 percent of residents in 04047 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bridgton Hospital with a distance of 22.38 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Parsonsfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04047)**

Parsonsfield, Maine, a town nestled in the southwestern reaches of the state, offers a serene, rural lifestyle. However, the bucolic charm presents a unique challenge: navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This report, a "Breast Cancer Score," analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 04047, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical services, including diagnostic imaging, oncology appointments, and surgical centers. Understanding these transportation factors is paramount for anyone considering moving to Parsonsfield, as they directly impact the quality of life and treatment options available.

The primary concern centers on drive times. Parsonsfield's location, approximately 50 miles northwest of Portland, necessitates significant travel for specialized medical care. The most direct route to Portland, and its concentration of healthcare facilities, involves traversing Route 160, a winding two-lane road that connects Parsonsfield to the more significant arteries of Route 25 and eventually Interstate 95. The drive to Maine Medical Center in Portland, a major cancer treatment center, typically takes between one hour and 15 minutes to one hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

The drive to Southern Maine Health Care in Biddeford, another option, is somewhat shorter, utilizing Route 160 to Route 117, then onto Route 111 and eventually the Maine Turnpike (I-95). This journey usually takes between one hour and one hour and 30 minutes. These drive times, while manageable, represent a considerable investment of time and can be especially taxing for patients undergoing treatment, experiencing side effects, or requiring frequent appointments.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The Greater Portland Metro (METRO) system, while serving Portland and its surrounding communities, does not extend to Parsonsfield. Local transportation is virtually nonexistent. This lack of public transit significantly disadvantages individuals without personal vehicles, those unable to drive due to medical conditions, or those with limited financial resources. The absence of reliable public transportation is a major hurdle in healthcare access for residents of 04047.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. While they offer a potential solution, the availability of drivers in Parsonsfield is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services, especially for long-distance trips to Portland or Biddeford, can quickly become prohibitive, adding a significant financial burden to the already stressful experience of a cancer diagnosis.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with healthcare appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Northeast Transportation and FirstLight Home Care provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and luggage. However, these services, while invaluable, also come at a cost, and insurance coverage varies. The availability of these services in Parsonsfield is another factor to consider, as they might not always be readily accessible.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Parsonsfield reflects a complex interplay of factors. The primary advantage is the relative proximity to major healthcare centers in Portland and Biddeford, but this is offset by the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline for some, but the associated costs and potential for limited availability remain a concern.

For someone considering moving to Parsonsfield, the "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, considering their ability to drive, their financial resources, and their access to support networks. They should research the availability and cost of medical transport services and explore potential options for assistance from local organizations.

The challenges in Parsonsfield are not insurmountable. The community could benefit from initiatives to enhance healthcare access, such as exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments or advocating for expanded public transportation options. Further, the establishment of a local support group for cancer patients could provide crucial emotional and practical support, including assistance with transportation.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Parsonsfield, Maine (04047), reveals a landscape where healthcare access is significantly influenced by transportation challenges. While the proximity to quality medical care is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers for many residents. Understanding these factors is critical for anyone considering moving to Parsonsfield and for those already living there, especially those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. A proactive approach, involving careful planning, exploration of available resources, and community advocacy, is essential to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.