04964, Oquossoc, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04964, Oquossoc, Maine is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.36 percent of residents in 04964 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 32.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rumford Hospital with a distance of 27.89 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Oquossoc, Maine (ZIP Code 04964)

The crisp mountain air of Oquossoc, Maine, a jewel nestled within the Rangeley Lakes region, offers a serene escape for those seeking a life closer to nature. But for individuals considering a move, particularly those with a personal or family history of breast cancer, understanding the realities of **healthcare access** becomes paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on timely medical care within and from the 04964 ZIP code.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value, but a holistic evaluation of the challenges and advantages of accessing breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. It considers the availability of medical facilities, the efficiency of **transportation** networks, and the support services available to patients. This analysis aims to provide a realistic picture for those contemplating a move to Oquossoc, empowering them to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

Oquossoc, a small, rural community, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers and specialized breast care facilities are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This geographical reality underscores the importance of understanding the available **transportation** options.

**Driving the Distance:**

Driving is the primary mode of **transportation** for most residents of Oquossoc. The most direct route to larger medical centers typically involves navigating a network of highways and roads.

For basic primary care, the Rangeley Family Medicine clinic in Rangeley (approximately 7 miles) offers a starting point. The drive along Route 4, a scenic but often winding road, typically takes about 15 minutes. This clinic, while offering basic services, may not have specialized breast cancer care.

For more advanced care, including mammograms and initial consultations, patients will likely need to travel to Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington, Maine (approximately 50 miles). The journey involves taking Route 4 to Route 27, then connecting to Route 2. The drive, depending on traffic and weather conditions, can take anywhere from 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. During the winter months, this drive can be considerably longer and more hazardous.

The next tier of specialized care involves traveling to Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine (approximately 175 miles). This journey requires taking Route 4 to Route 2, then connecting to Interstate 95 South. The drive can take upwards of 3 hours, excluding potential delays.

The final option for specialized care is to travel to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts (approximately 260 miles). This journey involves taking Route 4 to Route 2, then connecting to Interstate 95 South and then to the Massachusetts Turnpike. The drive can take upwards of 5 hours, excluding potential delays.

These drive times highlight the significant time commitment required for routine screenings, follow-up appointments, and treatment sessions. The physical and emotional toll of long drives, especially for patients undergoing treatment, must be considered.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in the Oquossoc area are extremely limited. The region's rural nature and sparse population density make it challenging to establish a robust public transit system.

There is no established bus route that directly serves Oquossoc. The nearest bus service, provided by Concord Coach Lines, offers routes to larger cities like Portland and Bangor. However, these routes do not directly serve Oquossoc, and accessing them would require a significant drive to a pick-up location.

The lack of public **transportation** options severely limits **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is a critical factor to consider, particularly for elderly residents or those facing mobility challenges.

**ADA Features:** Information regarding the accessibility of the Concord Coach Lines routes is available on their website.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in larger cities, including Portland and Bangor, but their presence in Oquossoc is extremely limited. Availability is often unpredictable, and wait times can be lengthy. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore not a reliable option.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the region. These services specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

Several providers offer NEMT services in Maine, including:

* **NEMT of Maine:** Provides transportation for medical appointments.
* **First Transit:** Offers medical **transportation** services.
* **CareRide:** Specializes in medical **transportation**.

It is crucial for individuals considering a move to Oquossoc to research the availability and cost of NEMT services in advance. They should also inquire about the specific services offered, including wheelchair accessibility and the ability to transport patients undergoing treatment.

**Support Services and Resources:**

While Oquossoc itself may not have extensive breast cancer support services, the larger communities of Farmington and Portland offer various resources. These include support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance programs.

The American Cancer Society and the Maine Cancer Foundation are valuable resources for information, support, and financial assistance. These organizations can provide guidance on navigating the healthcare system and connecting with local resources.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Summary:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Oquossoc, Maine (04964) reflects the challenges of accessing specialized breast cancer care. The primary mode of **transportation** is driving, which necessitates long travel times to reach comprehensive medical facilities. Public **transportation** options are virtually nonexistent, limiting **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. Ride-sharing services are unreliable, and medical **transportation** services require careful planning and research.

The score is not meant to discourage individuals from **moving to Oquossoc**, but to provide a realistic assessment of the **transportation** and **healthcare access** landscape. Individuals with a history of breast cancer, or those at high risk, should carefully consider the implications of these factors. Planning for regular screenings, appointments, and potential treatment sessions requires careful consideration of travel time, cost, and the availability of support services.

For those considering a move, it is essential to:

* Research the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services.
* Identify and connect with breast cancer support groups and resources in the region.
* Establish a relationship with a primary care physician who can provide referrals and coordinate care.
* Factor in the time and cost of travel when planning medical appointments.

By understanding these realities, individuals can make informed decisions and proactively manage their healthcare needs while enjoying the beauty and tranquility of life in Oquossoc.