04976, Skowhegan, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04976, Skowhegan, Maine is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.20 percent of residents in 04976 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Redington Fairview General Hospital with a distance of 1.80 miles from the area.

The journey to understand breast cancer care in Skowhegan, Maine, ZIP code 04976, begins with a crucial assessment: the Breast Cancer Score. This score, a composite measure of healthcare access, considers not just the availability of treatment but also the practical realities of *transportation* and the challenges of navigating the healthcare landscape. A low score indicates significant barriers, while a high score suggests relative ease of access to timely and comprehensive care. This write-up delves into the specifics of this score, focusing on the *transportation* options available to residents of Skowhegan.

The initial component of the Breast Cancer Score examines drive times. The primary healthcare provider for breast cancer care in this area is Redington-Fairview General Hospital in Skowhegan. Residents in the town, therefore, enjoy a score advantage. However, specialized services like radiation therapy or certain surgical procedures might necessitate travel to larger facilities. The most likely destinations are in Bangor, roughly 60 miles east, or Portland, approximately 100 miles south.

The drive to Bangor, primarily via US Route 201 and Interstate 95, can take around an hour and a half, depending on traffic. US Route 201, a scenic but often winding road, is subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during winter. I-95 offers a more direct route, but traffic congestion around Bangor can add to the travel time. This journey, while manageable, presents a time commitment that can be taxing for patients undergoing treatment, especially those experiencing fatigue or pain.

The drive to Portland, a larger metropolitan area with a wider array of specialists and advanced treatments, is considerably longer. The primary route is I-95 South. This trip can take upwards of two hours, excluding potential delays due to traffic, construction, or weather. The extended travel time significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it increases the burden on patients and their caregivers.

Public *transportation* options in Skowhegan are limited. The Somerset Explorer, a local bus service, provides some coverage within the county. However, its routes are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities in Bangor or Portland. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. The Somerset Explorer website provides detailed information on route schedules and accessibility features. Public *transportation*, therefore, contributes minimally to a positive Breast Cancer Score for residents of 04976.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of these services is a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Patients relying on ride-sharing for appointments must factor in potential wait times and the availability of drivers. The cost of frequent rides can also be a significant financial burden, further impacting the score.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized non-emergency medical *transportation* providers, are available but often come at a higher cost. These services are essential for patients who cannot drive or utilize public *transportation* due to their medical condition. The availability and affordability of these services directly influence the Breast Cancer Score.

The Breast Cancer Score for Skowhegan, Maine, ZIP code 04976, is significantly influenced by the geographic realities of the area. While local healthcare access is readily available, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel to larger cities. The limited public *transportation* options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical *transportation* all contribute to the overall score.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs can significantly impact a patient's experience. The presence of these resources in Skowhegan and the surrounding areas contributes to a more favorable score.

Furthermore, the Breast Cancer Score takes into account the patient's ability to navigate the healthcare system. This includes factors such as the availability of patient navigators, who can help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and insurance coverage. The presence of these services can significantly improve a patient's experience and reduce the stress associated with a cancer diagnosis.

For individuals *moving to Skowhegan*, understanding the Breast Cancer Score is crucial. It provides a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape and highlights the *transportation* challenges that may be encountered. Prospective residents should consider the proximity of specialized care, the availability of *transportation* options, and the presence of support services when making their decision.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the lived experience of patients. It underscores the importance of addressing *transportation* barriers and ensuring that all residents of Skowhegan, regardless of their circumstances, have access to timely and comprehensive breast cancer care. The score serves as a call to action, urging the community to invest in *transportation* infrastructure, support services, and patient navigation programs.

The score also considers the availability of preventive care. Access to screening mammograms and other preventative services can significantly improve outcomes. The Breast Cancer Score reflects the availability of these services in Skowhegan and the surrounding areas.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Skowhegan, Maine, ZIP code 04976, is a complex metric that reflects the interplay of *transportation*, healthcare access, and support services. While the town offers local healthcare options, the need for specialized care and the limitations of *transportation* options present significant challenges. For those *moving to Skowhegan*, a thorough understanding of this score is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The score emphasizes the importance of community efforts to improve access to care and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to fight breast cancer with dignity and hope.