04568, South Bristol, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04568, South Bristol, Maine is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.51 percent of residents in 04568 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincolnhealth with a distance of 11.24 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in South Bristol (04568)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a condition as demanding as breast cancer, is a critical aspect of life quality. This assessment, tailored for the residents of South Bristol, Maine (ZIP Code 04568), explores the accessibility of breast cancer services, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Considering a move to this picturesque coastal community? Understanding the logistical realities of accessing essential medical care is paramount. This report provides a comprehensive ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for 04568, a crucial factor in your decision-making process.

South Bristol, a town steeped in maritime history, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its geographical isolation presents unique challenges when it comes to accessing specialized healthcare. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer treatment centers are located in the larger towns and cities of Maine, necessitating careful consideration of transportation logistics. This report analyzes the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a clear picture of the ‘Breast Cancer Score’ in this specific ZIP code.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 04568 is the personal vehicle. The drive to the nearest significant healthcare facilities, such as LincolnHealth’s Miles Memorial Hospital in Damariscotta, is a journey of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The route typically involves navigating Route 129, a scenic but winding road, and then merging onto Route 1. During peak tourist seasons, traffic congestion on Route 1 can significantly extend travel times. Further, the drive to larger hospitals with specialized cancer centers, like Maine Medical Center in Portland or Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor, can take upwards of 1.5 to 3 hours, respectively, involving travel on Route 1, I-295, and I-95.

Public transportation options are limited in South Bristol. The local bus service, operated by the Damariscotta-based Coastal Transportation, may offer routes that touch upon areas where medical facilities exist, but these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve the needs of those requiring frequent cancer treatment appointments. This service’s ADA accessibility is an important consideration for patients with mobility issues. The schedule may not accommodate the specific timing requirements of medical appointments, making reliance on public transit a significant challenge for breast cancer patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability is not guaranteed, particularly in a rural area like South Bristol. The reliability of these services can be inconsistent, with wait times varying considerably depending on the time of day and the demand. Moreover, the cost of ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments can quickly become prohibitive, adding a financial burden to an already stressful situation.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and FirstLight Home Care provide non-emergency medical transportation, including transport to and from medical appointments. These services are designed to accommodate patients with mobility limitations and can offer a more reliable and comfortable transportation experience. However, these services often come with a higher price tag than other options, and their availability may be limited, especially during peak demand periods.

Considering the challenges of transportation, healthcare access becomes a crucial factor in assessing the ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for 04568. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the uncertainty of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport all contribute to the overall score. The geographic isolation of South Bristol necessitates careful planning and preparation for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for 04568 reflects the complexities of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical facilities poses a significant challenge. The score is influenced by several factors: the drive times to treatment centers, the availability and reliability of public transportation and ride-sharing services, and the cost and accessibility of medical transportation.

For individuals considering a move to South Bristol, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Planning for potential delays, considering the financial implications of transportation costs, and exploring all available options are crucial steps in ensuring access to timely and effective breast cancer care. The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ serves as a valuable tool in this decision-making process, providing a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape in 04568.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for South Bristol, Maine (04568) is moderate, reflecting the challenges associated with accessing healthcare in a rural environment. While the community offers a peaceful and scenic lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical facilities and the limitations of transportation options create obstacles for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. The score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transportation, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport.

For those considering a move to South Bristol, a comprehensive evaluation of transportation needs and healthcare requirements is paramount. Careful planning for potential delays, financial considerations, and exploring all available options are essential to ensure timely and effective breast cancer care. Understanding the logistical realities of accessing medical care is a crucial factor in the decision-making process, and the ‘Breast Cancer Score’ offers a valuable tool for assessing the healthcare landscape in 04568. The ability to secure reliable transportation is directly linked to the quality of life for those battling breast cancer.