04654, Machias, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04654, Machias, Maine is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.06 percent of residents in 04654 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Down East Community Hospital with a distance of 0.48 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Machias, Maine (ZIP Code 04654)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, is a critical aspect of life. In the picturesque coastal town of Machias, Maine, ZIP code 04654, the availability and accessibility of transportation options significantly impact the quality of care. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" write-up, examines the transportation landscape, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to Machias. This information is crucial for anyone navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan.

The primary concern is the distance to comprehensive breast cancer care. The nearest facilities offering specialized services are in Bangor, approximately 100 miles away, or Portland, roughly 200 miles away. These distances necessitate a reliable transportation strategy, a factor that significantly influences the Breast Cancer Score.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation in Machias. The primary route to Bangor involves taking US Route 1 north, a scenic but often slow-moving coastal highway. The drive typically takes around two to two and a half hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Alternatively, patients can take US Route 192 west to connect with US Route 1, adding a few minutes to the trip. The journey to Portland requires a longer trek on US Route 1, or a combination of US Route 1 and I-95, potentially exceeding three and a half hours.

The availability of public transportation is limited. Downeast Transportation, the regional public transit provider, offers bus services, but these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities in Bangor or Portland. The service primarily focuses on local routes within Washington County, with limited accessibility to major healthcare centers. The buses may offer ADA-compliant features, but their infrequent schedules and limited reach pose challenges for patients needing regular appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Machias. This lack of access presents a significant barrier, especially for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This absence dramatically lowers the Breast Cancer Score.

Medical transport services, while available, can be costly and require advance booking. These services, often provided by private companies, offer door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. However, the limited number of providers and the potential for high costs can create financial burdens for patients, further impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

The Breast Cancer Score for Machias, Maine, reflects the challenges of accessing specialized care. The long distances to treatment centers, the limited public transportation options, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on potentially expensive medical transport services all contribute to a lower score.

The impact of these transportation limitations extends beyond simply getting to appointments. It affects the overall quality of life for breast cancer patients. The stress of long drives, the potential for isolation due to limited mobility, and the financial burden of transportation costs can all exacerbate the physical and emotional challenges of battling the disease.

For individuals considering moving to Machias, the transportation landscape is a crucial factor to consider. A robust support system, including family, friends, or community resources, is essential to navigate the healthcare system effectively. Planning for transportation needs, exploring financial assistance options, and understanding the limitations of available services are all critical steps in ensuring access to timely and appropriate care.

The Breast Cancer Score for Machias highlights the need for improved healthcare access. This can be achieved through various strategies, including advocating for expanded public transportation services, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies, and supporting the development of local medical transport options.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 04654 reflects the challenges of transportation and healthcare access in this rural community. The long distances to specialized care, the limited public transit options, and the absence of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for breast cancer patients. Addressing these challenges through strategic initiatives is essential to improve the quality of life and ensure that residents have access to the care they need. The journey to healthcare must be as accessible as possible for those facing the challenges of breast cancer.