04050, Long Island, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04050, Long Island, Maine is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.95 percent of residents in 04050 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Mercy Hospital with a distance of 6.13 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 04050

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as significant as breast cancer screening and treatment, is more than just a medical appointment. It's a complex equation involving time, cost, and the availability of reliable **transportation**. This write-up assesses the landscape of **healthcare access** in ZIP code 04050 (Gorham, Maine), considering the specific challenges faced by residents and potential newcomers **moving to Long Island** (a common misnomer for the area). We will delve into the practicalities of reaching essential services, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" based on the ease and efficiency of accessing care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, considering factors such as drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. It aims to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals needing breast cancer-related healthcare in Gorham.

**Driving the Route to Wellness:**

For many residents, the car remains the primary mode of **transportation**. The most direct route to major medical centers from Gorham involves navigating the local road network. The Maine Medical Center, a primary hub for breast cancer care, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic, primarily via the US-202 East/Main Street. This route offers a relatively straightforward journey, but rush hour can significantly impact travel times.

Another crucial destination is the Mercy Hospital in Portland, accessible via the US-202 East and I-295 South. This journey typically takes 25-40 minutes. Both hospitals offer comprehensive breast cancer services, including screenings, diagnostics, surgery, and oncology. The availability of parking, particularly at the Maine Medical Center, can be a concern, potentially adding to the overall stress of the healthcare experience.

For residents further west in 04050, accessing these facilities might involve traversing smaller roads like Gray Road and Sebago Lake Road, potentially adding to the overall travel time. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, can present additional challenges.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Gorham are limited. The Greater Portland Metro offers some service, but its routes within Gorham are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to Portland. This makes relying on public transit for regular appointments a challenge.

The Metro's Route 9A and 9B, for example, provide service along US-202, but schedules are often not conducive to accessing early morning appointments or late afternoon treatments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with mobility issues. While the Metro strives to provide accessible services, relying solely on public transit can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for some individuals.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Gorham area. However, their availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as transportation for non-emergency medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, catering specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. Several companies operate in the area, including some that accept insurance. However, availability and cost vary, and pre-booking is often required.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" in Context:**

Considering these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 04050 reflects a mixed bag. While driving offers a relatively direct route to major medical centers, traffic, parking, and road conditions can pose challenges. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing and medical transport services, while available, come with their own set of considerations.

For someone **moving to Long Island** (Gorham), this means carefully evaluating their **transportation** needs. If they are able to drive, the commute to healthcare is manageable, though traffic should be considered. If they rely on public transit, they may need to factor in longer travel times and potential limitations. For those with mobility issues or limited access to personal vehicles, exploring medical transport options is crucial.

**The Importance of Proactive Planning:**

Individuals with breast cancer or those at high risk must proactively plan their **transportation** to healthcare. This includes researching the most efficient routes, understanding public transit schedules, and investigating ride-sharing or medical transport options.

When **moving to Long Island**, potential residents should consider proximity to medical facilities, the availability of **transportation**, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services. This is particularly crucial for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those requiring frequent appointments.

**Looking Ahead: Enhancing Healthcare Access:**

Improving **healthcare access** in 04050 requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit routes and frequency, particularly to connect with medical facilities, would be beneficial. Promoting the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also essential.

Furthermore, increasing the awareness of available resources and providing support for individuals navigating the **transportation** landscape can significantly improve the overall healthcare experience. This could include providing information on financial assistance for **transportation** costs or offering volunteer driver programs.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of 04050 have equitable access to the breast cancer care they need, regardless of their **transportation** limitations. This requires a collaborative effort from healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations to address the unique challenges and opportunities within this vibrant community.