04110, Cumberland Foreside, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04110, Cumberland Foreside, Maine is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.95 percent of residents in 04110 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Mercy Hospital with a distance of 8.13 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 04110

The picturesque coastal community of Cumberland Foreside, Maine, nestled within the 04110 ZIP code, presents a unique tapestry of natural beauty and residential charm. However, when considering healthcare access, particularly for a critical condition like breast cancer, the idyllic facade demands a deeper examination. This write-up aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, evaluating the ease of transportation to vital medical resources, thereby offering prospective residents and current inhabitants a clearer understanding of healthcare accessibility in this desirable locale. We will explore the available transportation options, assessing their efficiency, reliability, and suitability for individuals facing the challenges of breast cancer treatment.

The cornerstone of healthcare access lies in the ability to reach medical facilities promptly and dependably. In Cumberland Foreside, the primary mode of transportation for many is the personal vehicle. Accessing specialized breast cancer care often necessitates travel to hospitals and treatment centers located in the Greater Portland area. The most direct route typically involves utilizing the scenic **Route 1** which, while beautiful, can experience congestion, especially during peak commuting hours.

A drive to Maine Medical Center, a major regional healthcare provider offering comprehensive breast cancer services, along **Route 1** and then **I-295**, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This drive time can fluctuate significantly, potentially extending to 45 minutes or more during rush hour, a crucial factor for patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, where timely arrival is paramount.

Another option involves taking **Route 88** to **Route 1**, and then onto **I-295**. This route, while slightly longer in terms of distance, can sometimes offer an alternative during heavy traffic on **Route 1**. The presence of these multiple routes provides a degree of flexibility, but the reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable car ownership and maintenance for those residing in Cumberland Foreside.

Public transportation, a critical component of healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, presents a different picture. The Greater Portland Metro bus system provides service to the area. While the bus system does offer routes that serve Cumberland Foreside, the frequency and reach are limited compared to urban centers.

Route 9A, for example, provides some service, but the schedule may not align with the needs of patients requiring early morning appointments or late-evening treatments. Furthermore, the availability of accessible vehicles equipped with ramps and other ADA features is crucial for individuals with mobility challenges, and it's important to confirm the availability of such services on specific routes and at specific times.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit highlight the potential challenges faced by individuals in Cumberland Foreside when accessing specialized breast cancer care. The commute times, even under optimal conditions, can be a significant burden, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing treatment-related side effects.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Cumberland Foreside can vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could add to the financial burden of healthcare access. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially for scheduled appointments, also needs careful consideration.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another avenue. Several companies, such as Careline and Northeast Transportation, operate in the Greater Portland area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Cumberland Foreside, therefore, must consider these factors. While the proximity to major healthcare providers in Portland offers a degree of reassurance, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services necessitate a cautious assessment.

For individuals considering moving to Cumberland Foreside, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Factors like the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, the ability to afford ride-sharing or medical transportation services, and the potential impact of commute times on treatment schedules and overall well-being should be carefully weighed.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a simple numerical value; it is a multifaceted evaluation. It acknowledges the advantages of living in a beautiful and safe community while recognizing the complexities of healthcare access. This analysis aims to empower residents and prospective residents with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The ideal scenario would involve a more robust public transportation network, offering frequent and reliable service to major medical facilities. Increased availability of accessible vehicles and enhanced coordination between healthcare providers and transportation services would also significantly improve healthcare access for breast cancer patients.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Cumberland Foreside is a nuanced assessment, reflecting the community's strengths and weaknesses in providing accessible healthcare. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, careful consideration of transportation options, and a commitment to advocating for improvements in healthcare access for all residents.