04864, Warren, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04864, Warren, Maine is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.60 percent of residents in 04864 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penobscot Bay Medical Center with a distance of 7.88 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Warren, Maine (ZIP Code 04864)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates accessible and reliable transportation. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of Warren, Maine (ZIP code 04864), assessing its impact on healthcare access for individuals navigating the challenges of breast cancer. We examine drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the commute to care. This information is vital for prospective residents considering moving to Warren, and for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare access.

Warren, nestled in the heart of Knox County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The town's rural character, while offering scenic beauty, often translates to longer travel times and limited public transit options. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, equipped to handle breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, are located in neighboring towns and cities. This geographical reality significantly influences the Breast Cancer Score for Warren residents.

**Driving Distances and Times**

The primary arteries connecting Warren to healthcare are Route 1 and Route 90. Route 1, a major coastal highway, offers a direct route north and south. Route 90, a shorter east-west connector, provides access to the midcoast region.

The Mid Coast Hospital in Brunswick, approximately 50 miles south of Warren, is a major healthcare provider. The drive to Brunswick, primarily via Route 1, can take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes to one hour and thirty minutes, depending on traffic. This drive time can be significantly impacted by seasonal tourism, which leads to increased congestion during the summer months.

Pen Bay Medical Center in Rockport, a closer option at approximately 15 miles south, provides more immediate healthcare access. The drive via Route 1 typically takes around twenty to thirty minutes. This proximity offers a more manageable commute for routine appointments and follow-up care.

Maine Medical Center in Portland, a major referral center, is approximately 75 miles south. The drive, mainly on Route 1 and I-295, can take between one hour and forty-five minutes and two hours, depending on traffic. This longer commute adds to the stress and financial burden for patients requiring specialized care.

These drive times highlight the dependence on personal vehicles for healthcare access in Warren. The availability of a reliable car and the ability to drive become critical factors in the Breast Cancer Score. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking further impact the financial burden associated with healthcare.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transit options in Warren are limited. The Island Explorer bus service, which operates seasonally, does not directly serve Warren. The nearest public transit options are located in neighboring towns, which require an additional commute.

The Penobscot Bay Transportation Company (PBTC) provides limited bus service in the midcoast region. However, the routes and schedules may not align with the specific needs of breast cancer patients. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility challenges. The PBTC website provides detailed route maps and schedules.

The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This limitation directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for elderly residents or those facing physical limitations due to their illness or treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the Warren area. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability poses a challenge for patients needing consistent transportation to appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option. Companies like MedStar and various local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often require advance booking and can be costly, but they provide a reliable option for patients who cannot drive or lack other transportation options. The availability and cost of these services are crucial factors in the Breast Cancer Score.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Warren**

For individuals considering moving to Warren, the transportation landscape must be a primary consideration. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, and the availability of ride-share and medical transport services all contribute to the overall healthcare access.

Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of support systems. The ability to drive or access reliable transportation is paramount. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, is not merely a medical metric; it's a reflection of the community's ability to support its residents in their journey to health.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score for Warren, Maine (ZIP code 04864) is influenced by the town's rural character and the limited transportation options. While the proximity to Pen Bay Medical Center offers a more manageable commute, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-share services present significant challenges. For individuals facing breast cancer, the ability to navigate these transportation hurdles is crucial. The availability of medical transport services and the support of family and friends become essential components of the overall healthcare experience. Understanding these transportation realities is vital for both current and prospective residents, ensuring that healthcare access remains a priority in the community.