04854, Owls Head, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04854, Owls Head, Maine is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.62 percent of residents in 04854 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penobscot Bay Medical Center with a distance of 5.10 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Owls Head (ZIP Code 04854)

Owls Head, Maine, a coastal community nestled along Penobscot Bay, offers stunning natural beauty and a close-knit atmosphere. Yet, when considering a move to this idyllic locale, especially for individuals with a heightened awareness of healthcare access, understanding the breast cancer screening and treatment landscape is paramount. This analysis delves into the transportation realities that shape healthcare access for residents of ZIP code 04854, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on commute times and options.

The primary concern for anyone facing or at risk of breast cancer is timely access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This involves navigating the transportation infrastructure to reach medical facilities equipped with the necessary technology and expertise. Owls Head, while offering a peaceful retreat, presents unique transportation challenges that directly impact the Breast Cancer Score.

The most direct route to healthcare from Owls Head often involves a car. The primary artery connecting Owls Head to larger population centers is Route 1, a scenic but often congested two-lane highway. Driving south on Route 1 leads to Pen Bay Medical Center in Rockport, a critical healthcare provider for the region. The drive to Pen Bay Medical Center, a crucial facility for breast cancer screening and initial treatment, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Further specialized care, including advanced imaging and oncology services, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals in the area. Driving north on Route 1, towards the city of Belfast, offers access to Waldo County General Hospital. However, the drive can extend to 45 minutes to an hour, impacted by traffic and seasonal tourist influx. This journey is more time-consuming, impacting the overall Breast Cancer Score.

The absence of a robust public transportation system in Owls Head significantly impacts healthcare access. There are no dedicated bus routes serving the town. This forces residents to rely on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation for appointments. This limited access can create a barrier for those without vehicles or those unable to drive due to medical conditions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Owls Head area, but their availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather. Securing a ride to a medical appointment may require advance planning and can be subject to surge pricing, adding to the financial burden of healthcare. This uncertainty contributes to a lower Breast Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive themselves. Companies like Northeast Transportation and Maine Medical Transportation offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and can be costly, but they are essential for those with mobility limitations. The availability of these services improves the Breast Cancer Score for those who need them.

For residents seeking specialized breast cancer care, such as advanced imaging or surgical oncology, travel to larger medical centers in Portland or Bangor might be necessary. This involves a significantly longer drive, typically exceeding two hours each way, making it a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score. The drive requires navigating Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south highway, and potentially Route 1 and Route 3.

The Breast Cancer Score for Owls Head residents is therefore a nuanced calculation. The relatively short drive to Pen Bay Medical Center provides a strong starting point. However, the lack of public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing, and the potential for long drives to specialized facilities all contribute to a less favorable score.

Factors impacting the Breast Cancer Score include the physical limitations of the patient, the availability of caregivers, and the financial resources available to cover transportation costs. The lack of public transit, in particular, is a significant drawback, especially for those without personal vehicles.

The Breast Cancer Score reflects the reality that healthcare access is more than just the presence of medical facilities; it's also about the ability to reach them reliably and affordably. The scenic beauty of Owls Head should be weighed against the transportation challenges when considering a move, especially for individuals concerned about breast cancer screening and treatment.

The Breast Cancer Score for Owls Head, Maine (ZIP Code 04854) is a complex evaluation. While the proximity to Pen Bay Medical Center offers a positive aspect, the absence of public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing, and the potential for long drives to specialized facilities contribute to a less favorable score. The score should be considered when planning a move, particularly for those with a history of breast cancer or at high risk.