04558, Pemaquid, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04558, Pemaquid, Maine is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.42 percent of residents in 04558 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincolnhealth with a distance of 9.34 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pemaquid (ZIP Code 04558)

The picturesque peninsula of Pemaquid, Maine (ZIP Code 04558), beckons with its rugged coastline and charming villages. But for those considering a move, especially individuals prioritizing healthcare access, understanding the local transportation landscape is crucial. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the ease of access to breast cancer-related healthcare services, focusing on transportation options from the heart of Pemaquid to relevant medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture for potential residents.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade, but rather a qualitative assessment, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of transportation accessibility. It acknowledges that early detection and effective treatment are paramount in breast cancer care. Therefore, this analysis emphasizes the practicalities of getting to appointments, including screenings, diagnostics, treatments, and follow-up care. The goal is to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs when considering a move to this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, area.

The primary healthcare hub serving Pemaquid is LincolnHealth – Miles Campus in Damariscotta, approximately 15 miles northeast. This facility offers a range of services, including mammography and potentially some initial consultations. The drive, primarily via ME-129 North, is generally straightforward, taking around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of year. ME-129 is a well-maintained road, but it can experience increased traffic during peak tourist seasons. The route is scenic, passing through charming coastal towns, but the lack of alternative routes could become a problem if there is an accident.

For more specialized care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and advanced diagnostics, patients often travel to larger hospitals. Maine Medical Center in Portland, approximately 70 miles southwest, is a major referral center. The most direct route involves taking ME-129 North to US-1 South, then ME-295 South. This journey can take anywhere from 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive is considerably longer and can be affected by weather, especially during winter months.

Another option is Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, approximately 80 miles northwest. The route involves ME-129 North to US-1 North, then ME-201 North and ME-196 East. This drive is comparable in time to the Portland route, taking around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes. Again, weather conditions and traffic can significantly impact travel times.

Public transportation options in Pemaquid are limited. The local bus service, currently operated by Coastal Transportation, provides some routes within the Lincoln County area. However, these routes are infrequent, often operate on limited schedules, and may not directly connect Pemaquid to healthcare facilities like LincolnHealth – Miles Campus or the larger hospitals in Portland or Lewiston. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, crucial for individuals with mobility challenges, needs to be confirmed and confirmed again.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be unpredictable. While they may be an option for shorter trips, relying on them for regular appointments, especially those requiring early morning or late evening travel, could be problematic. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could also significantly increase the cost of transportation. It is important to check the availability and coverage area of these services before moving.

Medical transportation services are available, offering specialized transport for patients with medical needs. Companies like SeniorCare and FirstLight Home Care provide non-emergency medical transportation, including transportation to and from doctor's appointments and other healthcare facilities. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Pemaquid is mixed. While the drive to LincolnHealth – Miles Campus is relatively manageable, access to specialized care requires longer travel times to Portland or Lewiston. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, and the potential for weather-related disruptions during winter months needs consideration.

For individuals considering a move to Pemaquid, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or those requiring regular screenings or treatments, careful planning is essential. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities, exploring medical transportation options, and ensuring access to a reliable vehicle are crucial considerations. The beauty and tranquility of Pemaquid are undeniable, but a realistic assessment of transportation and healthcare access is essential to ensure peace of mind and continuity of care.

When moving to Pemaquid, potential residents should thoroughly investigate their healthcare needs, contact local healthcare providers to discuss transportation options, and explore the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This proactive approach will enable informed decisions and ensure that healthcare access aligns with individual needs and preferences. This "Breast Cancer Score" analysis provides a starting point for understanding the transportation landscape and making informed choices about moving to this beautiful coastal community.