04556, Edgecomb, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04556, Edgecomb, Maine is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.40 percent of residents in 04556 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincolnhealth with a distance of 6.41 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Edgecomb, Maine (ZIP Code 04556)

The quaint coastal town of Edgecomb, Maine (ZIP Code 04556), offers a picturesque life, but when facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the serene landscape transforms into a complex map of **healthcare access**. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score,” evaluates the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services, considering **transportation** options, drive times, and the availability of support services. This is crucial information for anyone considering **moving to Edgecomb**, or for current residents navigating their healthcare journey.

The foundation of our score lies in the proximity to essential healthcare facilities. The nearest comprehensive cancer center, offering a full spectrum of services including mammograms, biopsies, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is the LincolnHealth – Miles Campus in Damariscotta, approximately 15 miles from Edgecomb. This drive, primarily via Route 1, typically takes around 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic. While Route 1 is generally well-maintained, winter weather can significantly impact travel times.

Further afield, but offering additional specialized services, is Maine Medical Center in Portland, roughly 60 miles away. This journey involves a combination of Route 1 and I-295, and can take anywhere from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. This longer commute highlights the importance of understanding **transportation** options beyond personal vehicles.

Public **transportation** in Edgecomb is limited. The local bus service, Coastal Transportation (CT), operates on a demand-response basis. This means rides must be scheduled in advance, often a day or two ahead. While CT offers ADA-accessible vehicles, the service is not specifically designed for frequent medical appointments. The limited frequency and scheduling constraints make it challenging for regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can fluctuate. Availability is not guaranteed, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides to Damariscotta or Portland can quickly become a significant financial burden, impacting **healthcare access** for some residents.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. MedStar Ambulance and LifeFlight of Maine are available in the area. These services are generally reserved for emergency situations or patients requiring stretcher transport. Their cost is often covered by insurance, but prior authorization is often required.

The “Breast Cancer Score” also considers the availability of support services. The American Cancer Society and the Maine Cancer Foundation offer various resources, including financial assistance, patient navigation, and support groups. These resources are crucial for patients navigating the emotional and practical challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Accessing these services, however, may require travel, either in person or virtually.

The overall score is a composite of these factors, weighing the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the reliability of **transportation** options, and the availability of support services. A high score indicates excellent **healthcare access**, while a low score highlights significant challenges.

For Edgecomb, the score reflects a moderate level of access. The proximity to LincolnHealth – Miles Campus offers a reasonable drive time for many services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the potential cost of ride-sharing services create barriers for some residents. The longer travel times to Portland for specialized care further complicate the picture.

The impact of these factors is particularly significant for individuals facing financial constraints, mobility issues, or those without access to a personal vehicle. These individuals may face greater challenges in adhering to treatment schedules, attending follow-up appointments, and accessing support services.

The score also considers the impact of seasonal factors. Winter weather, with its potential for snow and ice, can significantly extend drive times and limit the availability of ride-sharing services. This can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment, who may already be experiencing fatigue and other side effects.

Furthermore, the score acknowledges the importance of early detection. The availability of mammography services within a reasonable distance is a critical factor. LincolnHealth – Miles Campus offers mammograms, but the ease of scheduling and the waiting times for appointments also influence the score.

The score is not static; it can change based on factors such as the opening of new clinics, the expansion of public **transportation** services, or changes in ride-sharing availability. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for residents of Edgecomb.

The “Breast Cancer Score” is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of **healthcare access** in Edgecomb. It is not a definitive assessment, but rather a starting point for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing residents. Individuals considering **moving to Edgecomb** or currently living there should use this information to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Edgecomb have equitable access to the care they need, regardless of their individual circumstances. This requires a multi-faceted approach, including advocating for improved public **transportation**, supporting local healthcare providers, and raising awareness about the resources available to patients.

The journey through breast cancer is challenging, but with careful planning and a clear understanding of the available resources, residents of Edgecomb can navigate this journey with greater confidence. The “Breast Cancer Score” serves as a tool to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improved **healthcare access** within their community. The goal is to make the landscape of healthcare less daunting and more supportive for those facing this life-altering diagnosis.