04043, Kennebunk, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04043, Kennebunk, Maine is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.11 percent of residents in 04043 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is York Hospital with a distance of 17.56 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04043**

The picturesque coastal town of Kennebunk, Maine, nestled within ZIP code 04043, offers a compelling blend of charm and tranquility. Yet, the allure of this community must be weighed against a crucial consideration: access to healthcare, particularly for a disease as serious as lung cancer. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the ease of transportation to specialized medical facilities from 04043, a critical factor for residents and those contemplating **moving to Kennebunk**.

The score is not a definitive prognosis, but a practical assessment of the challenges patients might face in receiving timely and comprehensive care. It considers various **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to public transit, evaluating their efficiency and accessibility. The goal is to illuminate the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape, allowing informed decisions about **healthcare access**.

**Driving Distances and Roadways**

For residents of 04043, the primary mode of transport for medical appointments is likely the personal vehicle. The closest major hospital with oncology services is Southern Maine Health Care (SMHC) in Biddeford, approximately 15 miles away. The journey typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route is via US Route 1, a scenic but often congested coastal highway.

Alternatively, motorists can utilize the Maine Turnpike (I-95), which offers a faster, though toll-based, option. The exit for Biddeford is conveniently located, reducing travel time to around 15-20 minutes. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact these drive times, particularly on US Route 1. The condition of the roads, especially during winter months, can further complicate travel.

For those seeking more specialized care, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts, represents a more distant, yet vital, option. The drive is approximately 90-120 miles, translating to a 1.5-2.5-hour journey, depending on traffic and the chosen route. This typically involves taking I-95 south. This longer commute underscores the importance of planning and potential overnight stays for treatment.

**Public Transportation Challenges**

Public **transportation** options in 04043 are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The Greater Portland Metro provides bus service, but its routes do not directly serve Kennebunk. Passengers would need to rely on local taxi services or ride-sharing apps to reach a Metro bus stop, adding time and expense to the journey.

The Amtrak Downeaster train offers a potential alternative, with a station in nearby Wells. However, the train schedule may not align with medical appointment times, and the station is not directly accessible from 04043 without other modes of transport. Furthermore, the train's accessibility features, while compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), might not fully accommodate all patients' needs.

The absence of a robust public **transportation** network highlights the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative, often costly, solutions for **healthcare access**. This is a critical factor for seniors, individuals with mobility limitations, or those unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the 04043 area, providing a convenient, though potentially expensive, alternative to driving. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Patients should pre-book rides to ensure timely arrival at appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like LogistiCare or ModivCare, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those lacking other **transportation** options. Eligibility requirements and coverage vary depending on insurance plans and the patient's needs.

However, these services often require advance booking, and the wait times can be unpredictable. Furthermore, the availability of specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other medical needs may be limited, potentially delaying appointments. The cost of these services can also be a significant burden, especially for those with limited financial resources.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

The ADA mandates accessibility features in public **transportation** and healthcare facilities. However, the practical application of these regulations can vary. While Amtrak trains and Metro buses are ADA-compliant, the accessibility of local taxi services and ride-sharing vehicles may be less consistent.

Healthcare facilities, including SMHC and Dana-Farber, generally adhere to ADA guidelines, providing accessible entrances, elevators, and examination rooms. However, patients with specific mobility needs should always confirm the availability of necessary accommodations when scheduling appointments.

The overall **transportation** landscape in 04043 necessitates a careful assessment of individual needs and limitations. The relative lack of public **transportation** options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services can create barriers to **healthcare access**, particularly for those with mobility impairments or limited financial resources.

**Lung Cancer Score and Conclusion**

Based on the analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score" for **healthcare access** in 04043 is moderate. While major hospitals with oncology services are within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** create potential challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers alternative solutions, but these can be costly and subject to availability constraints.

For individuals considering **moving to Kennebunk**, or for current residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, a thorough evaluation of **transportation** options and potential barriers to **healthcare access** is essential. Planning for medical appointments should include considering traffic conditions, booking rides in advance, and exploring eligibility for medical **transportation** assistance.

The decision to live in a particular area involves a complex interplay of factors. While Kennebunk boasts a desirable quality of life, the practicalities of accessing specialized medical care, particularly for a disease like lung cancer, must be carefully considered. This "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for a more in-depth exploration of the healthcare landscape, ensuring that residents can make informed decisions about their health and well-being.