04979, Solon, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04979, Solon, Maine is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.75 percent of residents in 04979 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Redington Fairview General Hospital with a distance of 15.35 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Solon, Maine (ZIP Code 04979)

The serenity of Solon, Maine, nestled along the Kennebec River, offers a compelling vision of rural living. But beneath the picturesque facade of this Somerset County town lies a crucial consideration for prospective residents: access to healthcare, specifically for breast cancer screening and treatment. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," meticulously examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 04979, quantifying the ease with which residents can access vital medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It aims to provide a clear picture for those contemplating moving to Solon, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a single number but a comprehensive assessment, recognizing that healthcare access is multifaceted. It considers the journey to facilities offering mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. Each element of the transportation network is scrutinized, from the asphalt of the roadways to the digital interfaces of ride-sharing apps. This detailed examination aims to illuminate the realities of accessing breast cancer healthcare within the context of Solon's unique geography.

For residents of Solon, the primary mode of transportation to access healthcare is undoubtedly by car. The town's location dictates reliance on personal vehicles for most journeys. The most direct route to the nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities involves navigating a network of state highways and local roads.

The primary artery for travel is **US Route 201**, also known as the Old Canada Road. This scenic route, while offering beautiful views, can be subject to seasonal variations in traffic and weather conditions. Heading south on Route 201, the drive to Redington-Fairview General Hospital in Skowhegan, approximately 20 miles away, is a crucial first stop. This hospital offers diagnostic imaging services, including mammograms, and is the initial point of contact for many. The drive typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Further travel is often required for specialized services. For advanced breast cancer care, including surgical oncology and radiation therapy, residents typically need to travel to larger medical centers. **Interstate 95** becomes the primary thoroughfare for these longer journeys.

To access the Harold Alfond Cancer Center at MaineGeneral Medical Center in Augusta, a drive of approximately 70 miles is necessary. This journey, involving a combination of Route 201 to I-95 South, can take around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This center offers comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

Another option is to travel north to the Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor, a drive of roughly 80 miles. This route, primarily via Route 201 and I-95 North, also takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. Eastern Maine Medical Center offers a similar range of services. The time commitment to these facilities highlights the challenges of healthcare access in a rural setting, where distance is a significant factor.

Public transportation options in Solon are extremely limited. The area lacks a robust public transit system, making it difficult for those without personal vehicles to access healthcare. There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve Solon or connect it to major medical centers. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle, creating a significant barrier to healthcare access.

The absence of public transportation underscores the importance of considering alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing services. Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in some parts of Maine, but their availability in Solon is inconsistent. Service may be limited or unavailable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing services for regular medical appointments is, therefore, not a reliable option.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several medical transport companies operate in Maine, including those that offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can be more costly than personal transportation or ride-sharing. They are, however, a viable option for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle, providing a crucial link to healthcare access.

The availability of medical transport services in Solon is a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score. The presence of these services, even if limited, provides a safety net for those who require assistance. The specific brands and their coverage areas should be thoroughly investigated by any prospective resident.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the available transportation options. This is particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations. Public transit, when available, must adhere to ADA guidelines, including accessible buses and stops. Ride-sharing services should also offer accessible vehicle options. Medical transport services must be equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities.

The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, reflects the complex interplay of factors affecting healthcare access in Solon. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the presence of medical transport services all contribute to the overall score. The score is not simply a measure of distance; it also considers the reliability, affordability, and accessibility of the available transportation options.

For individuals considering moving to Solon, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. The Breast Cancer Score encourages prospective residents to research the specific healthcare needs of their family members, assess the availability of transportation options, and make informed decisions about their healthcare access. This analysis highlights the importance of planning and preparation when moving to a rural area, ensuring that access to vital healthcare services is not overlooked. The journey to healthcare, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment, is a critical consideration for anyone choosing to call Solon home.