04290, Peru, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04290, Peru, Maine is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.35 percent of residents in 04290 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rumford Hospital with a distance of 7.42 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04290**

The fight against breast cancer demands more than just medical expertise; it requires accessible healthcare. In ZIP code 04290, the ability to reach vital services, from mammograms to chemotherapy, is a critical component of survival and quality of life. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape, illuminating the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking timely healthcare within this specific geographic area.

The first consideration is the sheer geography of Peru, Maine (ZIP code 04290), a town defined by its rural character. This landscape significantly influences transportation options. The primary mode of travel is the personal vehicle. The most direct route to major healthcare facilities involves navigating the network of roads, including Route 108, Route 140, and Route 2.

The drive to Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston, a major regional healthcare provider, clocks in at approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Peru. This journey primarily utilizes Route 108 and then connects to Route 4, a critical artery for accessing Lewiston-Auburn. Another option involves taking Route 140 to Route 26, leading to CMMC. The drive time is comparable.

The journey to St. Mary's Regional Medical Center in Lewiston is similar in duration and relies on the same highway infrastructure. The drive time to the Dempsey Center, a cancer support center located in Lewiston, is also approximately 20-30 minutes. These drive times assume typical conditions. Winter weather, common in Maine, can significantly extend travel times, creating a significant barrier to healthcare access.

Public transportation options are limited. The Greater Portland Transit District (METRO) does not directly serve Peru. The local transit authority, the Lewiston-Auburn Transit (L-A Transit), offers bus services, but these routes may not directly reach Peru. Residents would likely need to drive to a designated park-and-ride location in Lewiston or Auburn to access the public transportation system.

The L-A Transit system offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited route coverage and potential for multiple transfers make public transportation a less convenient option for many residents, especially those undergoing treatment or facing mobility challenges. The lack of direct routes and the need for transfers contribute to longer travel times, potentially impacting healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lewiston-Auburn area. However, their availability in the more rural areas of Peru may be less reliable, and the cost can be a significant factor for those on fixed incomes or facing financial hardship due to illness. The cost of ride-sharing, combined with the potential for longer wait times, presents a challenge for those needing regular appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, are another consideration. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, offer a dedicated option for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency appointments.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 04290 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to a complex picture. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while relatively short under ideal conditions, can be significantly impacted by weather and other factors.

The availability of healthcare access is a crucial factor when considering moving to Peru. Prospective residents, especially those with a history of breast cancer or other health concerns, must carefully assess the transportation landscape. The ability to reach healthcare facilities promptly and reliably is a critical determinant of quality of life.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 04290 is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of residents facing a formidable disease. The challenges of transportation, the potential for delayed access to care, and the financial burdens associated with transportation all contribute to the overall impact of breast cancer.

The community's efforts to improve transportation options, such as advocating for expanded public transit routes or supporting initiatives to reduce the cost of medical transportation, can significantly enhance healthcare access. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators who can assist with transportation arrangements, also plays a vital role.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a dynamic metric, reflecting the evolving transportation landscape and the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in ZIP code 04290. It is a call to action, urging the community to prioritize transportation solutions that empower residents to receive timely and effective care. The ability to navigate the transportation network is a critical component of the fight against breast cancer, impacting not only survival rates but also the overall well-being of individuals and families.