04006, Biddeford Pool, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04006, Biddeford Pool, Maine is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.89 percent of residents in 04006 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Spring Harbor Hospital with a distance of 14.37 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Biddeford Pool (ZIP Code 04006)

The salty air and scenic beauty of Biddeford Pool, Maine, beckon many seeking a tranquil life. However, a move to this coastal enclave necessitates a thorough understanding of local resources, particularly when considering healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on the critical element of transportation and its impact on timely healthcare delivery for residents of ZIP code 04006. This score is not a formal medical risk assessment, but rather a practical guide to understanding the challenges and opportunities related to accessing vital medical services, specifically for individuals needing lung cancer care.

The score considers the availability and accessibility of transportation options to medical facilities capable of providing lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Factors such as drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options are meticulously examined. The aim is to provide prospective residents, or current ones, with a realistic picture of their transportation landscape when facing a serious health concern. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Biddeford Pool, ensuring they make an informed decision regarding their healthcare needs.

**The Transportation Terrain: Roads, Highways, and the Commute**

Biddeford Pool, a peninsula jutting into the Atlantic, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary mode of transportation is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Driving is essential for accessing specialized medical care. The primary routes connecting Biddeford Pool to healthcare facilities are determined by the surrounding roadways.

The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating local roads like Pool Road, which eventually merges onto Route 9. Route 9 then leads to the more significant thoroughfare, Interstate 95 (I-95). I-95 is the primary artery for traveling north towards Portland, where specialized cancer centers are located, or south towards Portsmouth, New Hampshire, also offering advanced medical facilities.

Drive times are a critical factor. To Maine Medical Center in Portland, a major cancer treatment facility, the drive can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak commuting hours. This is a significant consideration for patients requiring frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other treatments. Likewise, the drive to Portsmouth Regional Hospital in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, averages around an hour, also influenced by traffic congestion.

The condition of the roads, especially during winter months, adds another layer of complexity. Snow and ice can significantly extend travel times and increase the risk of accidents, potentially delaying or disrupting critical medical appointments. The availability of reliable transportation during inclement weather is a crucial aspect of the Lung Cancer Score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in the Biddeford Pool area are limited. The Greater Portland METRO offers bus service, but its routes primarily serve the city of Portland and surrounding areas. There is no direct public transit route from Biddeford Pool to Portland. The closest bus stop would require a drive to Biddeford and then a transfer.

This lack of direct public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of accessible public transit options also affects those who are unable to drive due to the side effects of cancer treatment.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of the METRO buses is a positive factor. All METRO buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the long travel times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many patients needing frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative for transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of these services in the Biddeford Pool area can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited cellular service. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide specialized transportation for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services are often equipped with trained personnel and specialized equipment. However, the availability and cost of medical transport can vary.

The presence of local ambulance services in the area is a positive factor, ensuring rapid response in case of emergencies. However, the availability of NEMT services, specifically for routine medical appointments, should be carefully investigated. It is crucial to research the medical transport options available in the area and understand the coverage offered by insurance plans.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for Biddeford Pool (ZIP code 04006) reflects a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized medical care is a significant factor. Drive times to major cancer centers, while manageable, can be affected by traffic and weather conditions.

The limited public transit options and the potential inconsistency of ride-sharing services present challenges for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The availability of medical transport services, both emergency and non-emergency, is a crucial factor, but the specifics of these services should be carefully researched.

For those considering moving to Biddeford Pool, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, their access to a reliable vehicle, and their willingness to rely on ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The Lung Cancer Score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Before making a move, prospective residents should research the specific healthcare facilities available in the region, understand the transportation options, and assess their personal healthcare needs. This proactive approach ensures that individuals are well-prepared to navigate the transportation landscape and receive timely and effective care, should the need arise. The beauty of Biddeford Pool should not overshadow the practical considerations of healthcare access, ensuring a smooth transition and peace of mind for all residents.