04292, Sumner, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04292, Sumner, Maine is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.15 percent of residents in 04292 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stephens Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.24 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sumner, Maine (ZIP Code 04292)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not just the medical expertise of physicians, but also the intricate dance of transportation, accessibility, and the emotional fortitude required to navigate a challenging landscape. This analysis delves into the transportation terrain for individuals residing in Sumner, Maine (ZIP Code 04292), focusing on the practicalities of accessing breast cancer care. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential healthcare.

Sumner, a rural community in Oxford County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The area's geographical isolation necessitates a careful consideration of transportation options. The very act of moving to Sumner requires a deep understanding of these factors, especially for those with pre-existing health concerns. The availability and reliability of transportation directly impact the quality of life and the ability to receive timely and effective medical treatment.

The primary mode of transportation for most Sumner residents is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The drive times to the nearest medical facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer care are crucial. The closest major hospitals are in Lewiston and Portland, both significant drives. To reach Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston, one typically travels via Route 219 to Route 4, then onto Route 100, and finally to the hospital. This journey, without traffic, averages around 30-45 minutes.

For more specialized care, the drive to Maine Medical Center (MMC) in Portland becomes necessary. This route involves taking Route 219 to Route 26, then connecting to the Maine Turnpike (I-95) South. The trip, covering approximately 60 miles, typically takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, particularly around the Portland area. This longer drive can be a significant burden, especially for frequent appointments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public transportation options in Sumner and the surrounding areas are limited. The Greater Portland Metro, a well-established public transit system, primarily serves the Portland metropolitan area. However, there are no direct bus routes that reach Sumner. The closest access point to the Metro system would be in Lewiston, requiring a drive to a transfer point. The availability of accessible features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.

The Western Maine Transportation Services (WMTS) offers a demand-response service, providing transportation for medical appointments and other essential needs. While WMTS serves Oxford County, including Sumner, the service operates on a reservation basis. This requires advance planning and may not always be ideal for urgent appointments or unexpected complications. WMTS vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Lewiston-Auburn area and Portland, but their availability in Sumner is less certain. The rural nature of the area may result in longer wait times and higher fares. The reliability of ride-sharing services is also subject to driver availability, which can be a concern for scheduled medical appointments. Individuals relying on ride-sharing must factor in potential delays and ensure they have backup transportation plans.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations. NEMT services cater to non-emergency medical appointments, offering transportation for individuals who cannot drive themselves or use public transportation. These services typically require prior authorization and may have limitations based on insurance coverage.

The availability of these services is critical for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. Frequent appointments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, often require reliable transportation. The physical and emotional toll of treatment can make driving difficult or impossible. Medical transport services ensure patients can attend their appointments safely and comfortably.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Sumner, Maine (ZIP Code 04292) reflects a mixed picture. While the drive to CMMC in Lewiston is relatively manageable, the longer drive to Portland for specialized care at MMC presents a significant challenge. The limited public transportation options and the uncertainties associated with ride-sharing services add to the complexity. The availability of WMTS and medical transport services provides crucial support, but these services require advance planning and may have limitations.

Therefore, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Sumner, Maine, would be moderate. The score acknowledges the accessibility of healthcare, but also highlights the transportation challenges faced by residents. This score emphasizes the importance of careful planning, reliance on personal vehicles, and the need to utilize available support services. For individuals considering moving to Sumner or already residing there, understanding these transportation factors is essential to ensure access to timely and effective breast cancer care. The score serves as a reminder of the importance of community support, advocacy for improved transportation infrastructure, and the need to prioritize healthcare access for all residents.