04937, Fairfield, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04937, Fairfield, Maine is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.57 percent of residents in 04937 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Inland Hospital with a distance of 5.55 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fairfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04937)

The diagnosis of breast cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive care. For residents of Fairfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04937), the journey to treatment is inextricably linked to the availability and efficiency of transportation. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area, examining the challenges and opportunities in accessing vital healthcare services, considering the critical role of transportation in patient outcomes. The score reflects the ease with which individuals can reach diagnostic centers, surgical facilities, radiation oncology, and supportive care services, factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services.

Fairfield, a town nestled in the heart of Maine, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its relative remoteness, coupled with the state's vast geographical expanse, necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics. The "Breast Cancer Score" for Fairfield is influenced by the distances patients must travel, the available modes of transportation, and the potential barriers to access, particularly for those facing physical limitations or financial constraints.

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Fairfield are Interstate 95 (I-95) and U.S. Route 201 (US-201), also known as the Old Canada Road. These highways are crucial for reaching major medical centers. For instance, the drive to MaineGeneral Medical Center's Thayer Campus in Waterville, a key healthcare provider for the region, is approximately 10-15 minutes via US-201. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the "Breast Cancer Score," offering patients quick access to diagnostic imaging, surgical services, and oncology care.

However, the drive to more specialized facilities, such as those offering advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, can be significantly longer. The drive to the Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care in Augusta, a comprehensive cancer center, is roughly 30-45 minutes via I-95. This longer travel time, while still manageable, introduces potential stressors for patients, including increased fatigue, financial burdens related to fuel costs, and the need for more extensive logistical planning.

Public transportation options in Fairfield and the surrounding areas are limited. The Kennebec Explorer, operated by Kennebec Valley Transportation, provides bus services within the region. However, routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to the needs of cancer patients. The lack of direct routes to major medical facilities, coupled with infrequent service, presents a significant challenge. ADA-accessible buses are available, but the overall impact on the "Breast Cancer Score" is diminished due to the limited scope of service and the potential for lengthy travel times involving multiple transfers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Fairfield area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for patients, especially those facing financial difficulties due to their illness or treatment. While ride-sharing provides a valuable option, its reliability and affordability are crucial factors influencing the "Breast Cancer Score."

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with mobility issues or other needs. Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, including local private companies and those affiliated with healthcare systems. These services can be invaluable for patients undergoing treatment, but their availability and cost vary. The "Breast Cancer Score" benefits from the existence of these services, but the overall impact is dependent on their accessibility and affordability.

For individuals considering moving to Fairfield, the "Breast Cancer Score" should be a key consideration. While the town offers a relatively close proximity to essential healthcare services, the limitations of public transportation and the potential reliance on private vehicles or ride-sharing services require careful evaluation. Prospective residents should assess their individual needs, considering their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and their financial resources to cover transportation costs.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Fairfield is also influenced by the availability of supportive care services. Access to oncology social workers, support groups, and palliative care services is crucial for patients' overall well-being. The proximity of these services to the major medical facilities in Waterville and Augusta is a positive factor, but the availability of transportation to these services remains a critical element.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Fairfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04937) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to essential healthcare facilities, primarily MaineGeneral Medical Center's Thayer Campus, offers a significant advantage, the limitations of public transportation, the reliance on private vehicles, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides a valuable safety net, but their accessibility and affordability remain key factors. The "Breast Cancer Score" for Fairfield is improved by the presence of these services. For those moving to Fairfield, a thorough assessment of individual transportation needs and financial resources is crucial to ensure timely and convenient access to vital breast cancer care. The town's location, while offering some advantages, requires careful planning and consideration of transportation logistics to ensure that patients can navigate the healthcare system effectively.