04614, Blue Hill, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04614, Blue Hill, Maine is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.12 percent of residents in 04614 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Blue Hill Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.77 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04614

The quaint coastal town of Blue Hill, Maine, nestled within ZIP code 04614, offers a tranquil life, a haven for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. But beneath the idyllic surface lies a critical consideration for anyone, especially women, contemplating a move: **healthcare access**, specifically the availability of breast cancer screening and treatment. This write-up delves into the realities of **transportation** and its impact on the Breast Cancer Score for residents of Blue Hill, Maine.

The Breast Cancer Score, in this context, assesses the ease with which a resident can access essential breast cancer services. It considers the time and difficulty involved in reaching facilities offering mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical interventions, and oncology care. Factors include distance, road conditions, public transit options, and alternative modes of transport. The higher the score, the better the access. The lower the score, the more significant the challenges.

The primary challenge in Blue Hill is its relative isolation. The nearest comprehensive medical centers are located in Bangor, approximately 40 miles to the northwest, and Ellsworth, about 20 miles to the east. These distances, while seemingly manageable, become significant obstacles when considering the potential need for frequent appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** in this rural area. The primary route to Bangor involves taking Route 15 North, a scenic but often winding road, to Route 1A. This journey typically takes around an hour, assuming favorable traffic conditions. The return trip, after potentially stressful medical appointments, can feel considerably longer. Similarly, reaching Ellsworth necessitates traveling east on Route 172, connecting to Route 1. The drive, roughly 30 minutes, offers a slightly shorter travel time, but the healthcare options in Ellsworth are generally less extensive than those available in Bangor.

The roads themselves can present challenges. While generally well-maintained, Route 15 and Route 172 are subject to weather-related delays, particularly during the harsh Maine winters. Snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks. Furthermore, these roads are often narrow and lack shoulders, making them less forgiving in the event of an accident.

Public **transportation** options are limited. The Island Explorer bus service, which operates seasonally, serves the Mount Desert Island area, but it does not extend to Blue Hill. Local taxi services are available, but their availability and affordability can be unpredictable. Public **transportation** options are critical for those without personal vehicles or for individuals who are unable to drive due to medical conditions or other limitations.

The absence of robust public **transportation** underscores the need for alternative **transportation** solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bangor and Ellsworth areas, but their presence in Blue Hill is often sporadic. Availability depends on driver proximity and demand, which can be particularly problematic for pre-scheduled medical appointments. Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by Life Flight of Maine or other specialized providers, are available for emergency situations, but they are not typically used for routine appointments.

Considering the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation**, the Breast Cancer Score for Blue Hill is negatively impacted. The drive times to major medical centers, the potential for weather-related delays, and the lack of alternative **transportation** options create barriers to **healthcare access**. The Breast Cancer Score is further affected by the availability of local healthcare providers. While Blue Hill has a primary care physician, access to specialized breast cancer care, such as a dedicated oncologist or a surgical breast specialist, requires travel to Bangor or Ellsworth.

For individuals **moving to Blue Hill** and considering their **healthcare access**, it is essential to factor in the challenges of **transportation**. The Breast Cancer Score is not just a number; it represents the real-world difficulties faced by residents needing to access potentially life-saving services.

The Breast Cancer Score for Blue Hill, Maine, needs to be considered in the context of the broader healthcare landscape. The availability of screening mammography is a crucial factor. While some local clinics may offer mammograms, the availability of these services can vary. The frequency of mammograms, the need for additional diagnostic imaging, and the potential for surgical interventions all contribute to the overall **transportation** burden.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. The availability of support groups, counseling, and other resources can significantly impact a patient's experience. These services are often located in larger medical centers, adding to the travel burden.

The Breast Cancer Score is not static; it is a dynamic measure that can change over time. The expansion of healthcare services in Bangor or Ellsworth, the introduction of new **transportation** options, or the development of telehealth services can all positively impact the score. Conversely, the closure of a local clinic or an increase in **transportation** costs can negatively affect the score.

The Breast Cancer Score for Blue Hill highlights the importance of proactive planning. For individuals considering a move to the area, it is crucial to research local healthcare options, assess **transportation** needs, and develop a plan for accessing essential medical services. This may include establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, identifying reliable **transportation** resources, and understanding the insurance coverage for **transportation** expenses.

The Breast Cancer Score also underscores the need for community advocacy. Local residents can work to improve **healthcare access** by supporting initiatives that promote the expansion of healthcare services, the development of public **transportation** options, and the availability of affordable **transportation** assistance programs.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Blue Hill, Maine, reflects the challenges of **healthcare access** in a rural setting. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation**, and the distance to major medical centers create barriers to care. While the beauty and tranquility of Blue Hill are undeniable, prospective residents, particularly women, must carefully consider the implications of these **transportation** challenges when making their decision to move. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a crucial reminder that **healthcare access** is not just about medical expertise; it is also about the ability to get there. This is especially relevant when **moving to Blue Hill**.