04685, Swans Island, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04685, Swans Island, Maine is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.24 percent of residents in 04685 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Blue Hill Memorial Hospital with a distance of 19.12 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04685

The allure of Swans Island, Maine (ZIP Code 04685), with its rugged coastline and close-knit community, can be irresistible. However, when considering a move, particularly for those with a history of or concerns about breast cancer, the crucial factor of healthcare access must be thoroughly examined. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for 04685, focusing on transportation options to and from healthcare facilities, essential for timely diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up care. Understanding these realities is paramount for informed decision-making.

The primary challenge for residents of Swans Island lies in its geographical isolation. Situated off the coast of Maine, the island is accessible only by ferry. This immediately introduces a significant variable into the equation of healthcare access. The ferry, operated by the Maine State Ferry Service, is the sole mode of transportation off the island, directly impacting commute times and the feasibility of various treatment regimens.

**Drive Times: A Coastal Odyssey**

From Swans Island, the journey to the nearest comprehensive medical facilities involves a ferry ride followed by a drive. The ferry docks at Bass Harbor on Mount Desert Island, the gateway to MDI Hospital in Bar Harbor, the closest facility with oncology services. The ferry crossing itself takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on weather conditions and tides.

Upon disembarking in Bass Harbor, the drive to MDI Hospital utilizes Route 102, a scenic but winding road that can be slow-going, especially during peak tourist season. The drive is approximately 15 miles and typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This means a total commute time, from Swans Island to MDI Hospital, ranges from one hour and 15 minutes to one hour and 45 minutes, assuming no delays.

For more specialized care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to larger hospitals in Bangor or Portland. The drive to Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) in Bangor involves taking Route 102 to Route 1, then north to Bangor. This journey is approximately 110 miles and can take upwards of two and a half hours, excluding the ferry crossing.

Traveling to Maine Medical Center in Portland presents an even greater challenge. This trip involves the ferry, Route 102 to Route 1, and then south on I-95. The total distance is approximately 180 miles, translating into a travel time of at least four hours, again without accounting for ferry delays or traffic. The variable nature of these commutes highlights the critical role of reliable transportation and planning.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options are severely limited for residents of Swans Island. The primary mode of transport to and from the island is the Maine State Ferry Service. While the ferry is ADA-accessible, with ramps and designated seating areas, it only provides transportation to and from Bass Harbor.

Once on Mount Desert Island, public transportation is available through Island Explorer, a free bus service that operates seasonally. However, the Island Explorer routes are primarily focused on serving tourist destinations and do not directly connect to MDI Hospital. Therefore, relying solely on public transit for medical appointments is often impractical and time-consuming, requiring multiple transfers and potentially long wait times.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are extremely limited or unavailable on Swans Island and in the surrounding areas. This lack of readily available ride-sharing options exacerbates the transportation challenges for those needing medical care.

Medical transportation services, such as LifeFlight of Maine, provide air ambulance services for emergency situations. However, these services are primarily for critical care and are not a viable option for routine appointments or treatments.

Other medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies, may provide transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may be subject to availability and cost. The availability of these services can be a critical factor in determining healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 04685 is inherently low due to the significant transportation challenges. The island's remoteness, reliance on ferry service, and limited public transit options create significant barriers to accessing timely and consistent healthcare.

The commute times to MDI Hospital, while manageable, can be stressful and time-consuming, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment. The longer travel times to Bangor and Portland, coupled with the potential for ferry delays and traffic, further complicate the situation.

For individuals with breast cancer or at high risk, frequent appointments for screenings, biopsies, treatments, and follow-up care are essential. The logistical challenges of navigating these appointments from Swans Island can be overwhelming, potentially impacting treatment adherence and overall quality of life.

**Moving to Swans Island: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Swans Island offers a unique lifestyle, but it requires a careful assessment of its limitations. Individuals with breast cancer or those at increased risk must prioritize healthcare access.

Before making a move, prospective residents should:

* **Assess their healthcare needs:** Determine the frequency and type of medical appointments required.
* **Research transportation options:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Consider the impact of commute times:** Evaluate the impact of travel times on treatment schedules and overall well-being.
* **Consult with healthcare providers:** Discuss the feasibility of receiving care on the mainland and the potential challenges of accessing services from Swans Island.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 04685 reflects the reality of healthcare access in a remote island community. While the island's beauty and tranquility are undeniable, the transportation challenges necessitate careful consideration and proactive planning for those prioritizing their health. The success of moving to Swans Island depends on a well-informed understanding of these limitations and a commitment to ensuring access to the necessary healthcare services. The keywords, transportation, healthcare access, and moving to Swans Island, all converge on the critical need for detailed planning.