04062, Windham, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04062, Windham, Maine is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.68 percent of residents in 04062 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Spring Harbor Hospital with a distance of 11.11 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Windham, Maine (ZIP Code 04062)

Considering a move to Windham, Maine (ZIP code 04062)? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluating the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare within this community. It considers the critical aspect of **transportation**, a crucial factor in diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a picture of **healthcare access** for residents, especially those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Understanding these factors is vital when **moving to Windham**, ensuring access to timely and comprehensive care.

Windham, a sprawling town in Cumberland County, offers a blend of suburban and rural living. Its location, while beautiful, presents unique challenges when it comes to accessing specialized medical services. The Breast Cancer Score aims to illuminate these challenges, empowering potential residents with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The primary consideration for many Windham residents will be the drive time to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities. The major thoroughfare is Route 302, a busy artery that connects Windham to Portland, the region's healthcare hub. Driving east on Route 302, you'll reach Maine Medical Center in Portland, a well-regarded facility, in approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive often involves navigating the congested areas around Westbrook, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Another option is to head south on Route 302, connecting with Interstate 95 (I-95). Taking I-95 south towards Portland offers a potentially faster route, especially if traffic on Route 302 is heavy. However, this route might add distance, depending on the specific location within Windham.

For those preferring a less direct route, Route 202 offers a scenic alternative, though it typically adds travel time. This route meanders through smaller towns, potentially offering a more relaxed drive, but it also presents the risk of delays due to slower speeds and potential traffic.

The drive to Southern Maine Health Care in Biddeford, another potential option, typically takes about an hour, involving travel on Route 302 and then either Route 11 or I-95. This option is further away and might be less convenient for those in the northern part of Windham.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit in Windham is limited. The Greater Portland METRO offers bus service, but its routes in Windham are infrequent and primarily serve the areas closer to Portland. The primary route serving Windham is Route 7, which operates along Route 302. However, this route has limited frequency, especially during evenings and weekends.

Access to these buses can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues. While METRO buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating, the limited frequency and route coverage can make them impractical for regular medical appointments. The bus ride to Portland from Windham can take over an hour, adding significant travel time to the overall journey.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Windham, providing an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the town. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services are available for those who require assistance. Companies like Careline and FirstLight Home Care offer transportation specifically for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including helping patients in and out of vehicles. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or driving.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Windham (ZIP code 04062) is moderate. While the drive times to major healthcare facilities in Portland are manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a dependency that can be challenging for individuals without access to a car. The limited public transit options and the potential for fluctuating ride-sharing availability further complicate **healthcare access**.

For individuals considering **moving to Windham**, this score highlights the importance of considering **transportation** needs. Those without reliable access to a vehicle should carefully evaluate the feasibility of relying on public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport services.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a definitive measure of healthcare quality, but rather a reflection of accessibility. It is crucial to consider the quality of care at the chosen facilities, the availability of support services, and the individual's personal circumstances when making healthcare decisions.

**Conclusion: Informed Choices for a Healthy Future**

Windham offers a desirable quality of life, but its distance from major healthcare centers presents a challenge for those seeking breast cancer care. The Breast Cancer Score provides a starting point for evaluating **healthcare access** in this community. Potential residents should carefully weigh the **transportation** options available, considering their individual needs and circumstances. By understanding the realities of accessing care, individuals can make informed decisions, ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in Windham.