Breast Cancer Score

04285, Weld, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 04285, Weld, Maine

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04285, Weld, Maine is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.97 percent of residents in 04285 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rumford Hospital with a distance of 11.89 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 04285, Weld, Maine

Breast Cancer Score 78
People Score 84
Provider Score 65
Hospital Score 60
Travel Score 25

Closest Hospital - RUMFORD HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 04285 Weld Maine
No Cars 0.00 0.00 2.13
1 Car 21.13 21.13 18.39
2 Cars 45.07 45.07 45.49
3 or More Cars 33.80 33.80 34.00

Vehicular Access in 04285, Weld, Maine

Travel Score Review of 04285, Weld, Maine

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04285

Weld, Maine (ZIP Code 04285), nestled amongst the rolling hills and shimmering lakes of Franklin County, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access. The very beauty that draws people to this rural haven – the tranquility, the connection to nature – can also complicate the journey to essential medical services, especially for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This write-up, a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of Weld, exploring the realities of commuting to healthcare, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Weld.

The cornerstone of this analysis rests on the understanding that timely and reliable transportation is critical for breast cancer patients. Regular appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation), and follow-up care are non-negotiable. Delays or difficulties in accessing these services can significantly impact outcomes and quality of life. We'll consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in 04285.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Navigating the Roads to Recovery**

For many Weld residents, the car is the primary mode of transportation. The nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in Farmington, Augusta, and Lewiston. These journeys, while scenic, demand careful planning. The roads, often winding and subject to seasonal weather conditions, dictate travel times.

From Weld, the drive to Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington, offering oncology services, is the most accessible. Taking Route 142 south, you'll typically reach Farmington in approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Route 142, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays during peak tourist seasons or inclement weather. The drive is relatively straightforward, but patients should factor in potential travel time fluctuations.

Augusta, home to MaineGeneral Medical Center, requires a longer commute. The most direct route involves heading south on Route 142, connecting to Route 27 south, and then merging onto US-201 north. The total drive time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, a significant commitment for frequent appointments. This route, while generally well-traveled, involves navigating several towns and potential traffic congestion, particularly near Augusta.

Lewiston, with St. Mary's Regional Medical Center and Central Maine Medical Center, presents another option. The journey involves traveling east on Route 142, connecting to Route 4 north, and then to Route 202 east. The drive time is roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. This route, like the Augusta route, involves multiple road changes and potential traffic delays, adding to the stress of medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Solution**

Public transportation options in Weld and surrounding areas are limited. The Greater Franklin County Public TransportationPublic Transportation (GFC Transportation) provides demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. While this service is available, it's not specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients requiring frequent, predictable transportation.

GFC Transportation does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the scheduling process and potential for delays can make it a less-than-ideal solution for those undergoing treatment. The service's availability and route coverage should be thoroughly investigated for any potential patient, and the need for advance booking requires careful planning.

The lack of readily available public transportation highlights a significant barrier to healthcare access in Weld. The reliance on personal vehicles or the need to arrange rides with friends or family can place a considerable burden on patients and their support networks. This limitation is a crucial factor to consider when assessing the overall “Breast Cancer Score” for this ZIP code.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Farmington area, but their presence in Weld is less consistent. The availability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, cannot be guaranteed. Reliance on ride-sharing requires careful planning and may involve longer wait times or higher costs.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility and offering a more comfortable experience. However, the availability and cost of medical transport services in the Weld area should be thoroughly researched. These services can be a lifeline for patients who cannot drive or lack access to reliable transportation, but they come with a financial burden.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Moving to Weld**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 04285 is, therefore, influenced by the challenges of transportation. While the beauty and tranquility of Weld are undeniable, the distance to comprehensive cancer care facilities and the limitations of public transit significantly impact healthcare access.

Individuals considering moving to Weld, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or a family history, must carefully evaluate their transportation needs. The ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, and the willingness to undertake potentially long commutes are crucial considerations.

The availability of support networks – friends, family, or community resources – that can provide transportation assistance is equally important. Researching local medical transport options and understanding the limitations of ride-sharing services are also essential steps.

For current residents, advocating for improved public transportation options or exploring community-based transportation initiatives could significantly enhance healthcare access. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is crucial to address the transportation barriers faced by breast cancer patients in Weld.

In conclusion, while Weld offers a desirable lifestyle, the “Breast Cancer Score” reflects the realities of healthcare access in this rural setting. The journey to recovery requires more than just medical expertise; it demands reliable transportation. Understanding the transportation landscape, from drive times to ride-sharing, is paramount for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis in 04285. The future of healthcare access in Weld depends on addressing these challenges and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and effective care.

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Health Scores Near 04285, Weld, Maine

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Health Scores in 04285, Weld, Maine