04982, Stratton, Maine Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04982, Stratton, Maine is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.76 percent of residents in 04982 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 40.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 37.78 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stratton, Maine (ZIP Code 04982)

Imagine the crisp mountain air, the scent of pine, and the promise of a life lived amidst the breathtaking beauty of Stratton, Maine. You're considering a move, drawn to the allure of this rural haven. However, before you pack your bags, it’s crucial to understand the realities of accessing healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as breast cancer. This assessment, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape in and around ZIP code 04982, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for timely and effective healthcare access. This is a critical consideration for anyone, but especially for those with a family history or concerns about their breast health.

The score considers several factors, including drive times to hospitals and cancer centers, the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. It’s designed to provide a realistic picture of what it means to commute to healthcare in this geographically unique area. The goal is to empower you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision about your health and your potential relocation to Stratton.

The primary healthcare facilities serving Stratton are located outside the immediate ZIP code. The nearest hospital with comprehensive cancer care is Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington, roughly a 45-minute drive via Route 16 and Route 27. This route, while scenic, can be subject to delays due to weather, particularly during the winter months. Imagine navigating icy roads in the midst of a snowstorm, knowing that every minute counts. This is a real-world consideration for residents of Stratton.

Further afield, the next major medical center is MaineGeneral Medical Center in Augusta, approximately a 1 hour and 45-minute drive, primarily via Route 16, Route 27, and Route 201. This journey involves navigating a longer distance and potentially heavier traffic, making it less ideal for frequent appointments or urgent needs. The journey to Augusta is more time consuming.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in this rural region. There is no established bus route that directly serves Stratton. This means that individuals without access to a personal vehicle will face significant challenges in reaching medical appointments. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it limits healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also not readily available in Stratton. While these services might be present in larger towns and cities, their presence in rural areas is often sporadic and unreliable. This means that relying on ride-sharing for transportation to and from medical appointments is not a viable option for most residents. This further restricts healthcare access, particularly for those who are unable to drive or have limited mobility.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a potential solution. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive. The availability of these services in Stratton and the surrounding areas needs to be carefully researched. Knowing the cost and availability of medical transport is essential for anyone considering moving to Stratton, particularly those with existing health concerns.

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 04982 is significantly impacted by the lack of convenient transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles and the long drive times to healthcare facilities present considerable challenges. The absence of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services exacerbate these difficulties.

The score reflects the reality that individuals in Stratton may face significant obstacles in accessing timely and convenient healthcare, especially for regular appointments, treatments, or emergency situations. For someone undergoing breast cancer treatment, the need for frequent visits to the hospital or cancer center can become a major logistical and financial burden.

The beauty and tranquility of Stratton are undeniable. However, the challenges of healthcare access must be weighed carefully. If you are considering moving to Stratton and have concerns about breast health or are currently undergoing treatment, it is crucial to thoroughly investigate all available transportation options, including medical transport services, and to factor in the potential for long travel times.

Consider the implications of navigating winter weather conditions, potential traffic delays, and the overall cost of transportation. This is not to discourage a move to Stratton, but rather to provide a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape. This enables you to make an informed decision, ensuring that your health needs can be met effectively and efficiently.

Moving to Stratton is a lifestyle choice. However, it is one that requires careful consideration of all aspects of life, including healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score is a tool designed to help you navigate these complexities, providing a clear picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities within ZIP code 04982. It empowers you to make an informed decision about your health and your future in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, corner of Maine.