04062, Windham, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04062, Windham, Maine is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.68 percent of residents in 04062 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Spring Harbor Hospital with a distance of 11.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Windham, Maine (ZIP Code 04062)

Considering a move to Windham, Maine (ZIP Code 04062)? This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options for individuals potentially facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Understanding the logistical challenges of accessing treatment is paramount, especially when time is of the essence. This analysis will provide a “Lung Cancer Score,” a qualitative measure reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services from various points within the Windham area.

The “Lung Cancer Score” considers several factors: drive times to oncology centers, availability and reliability of public transportation, accessibility of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. We'll use a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the most accessible and 1 the least.

Windham, a vibrant community nestled in Cumberland County, boasts a scenic landscape and a growing population. However, its relative geographic isolation, particularly concerning specialized medical care, presents a unique challenge. The primary healthcare hub for residents is Portland, a city approximately 20 miles southeast. This distance, while seemingly manageable, can transform into a significant hurdle when navigating a complex health journey.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Windham is the automobile. The primary routes to Portland involve navigating the major thoroughfares: Route 302, a busy commercial artery, and eventually, Interstate 95 (I-95), the primary north-south highway. Drive times vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and weather.

From the center of Windham, a drive to Maine Medical Center (MMC), a major oncology center in Portland, typically takes 30-45 minutes under optimal conditions. This journey involves heading east on Route 302, merging onto I-95 South, and then following signs to the hospital. However, during rush hour, particularly weekdays between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and again between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, this commute can easily extend to an hour or more.

Another important oncology center, the New England Cancer Institute, located in Scarborough, is also accessible via I-95 South. The drive time to Scarborough is generally comparable to Portland, but traffic patterns can differ. For individuals living in the northern reaches of Windham, these drive times can be extended, potentially impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

For residents in the more remote areas of Windham, such as those near Sebago Lake, the drive to Portland can be closer to an hour, especially during peak tourist season. This extended travel time adds another layer of complexity to the process of accessing healthcare.

**Lung Cancer Score (Drive Time Component): 3/5** (Considering the average drive times and potential for delays).

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Windham is limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Greater Portland Metro provides bus service, but its reach into Windham is restricted. Route 7, the primary bus route serving Windham, offers limited frequency, with buses running approximately every hour during peak times and less frequently on weekends.

This route primarily serves the commercial corridor along Route 302, making it difficult to access medical facilities in Portland directly. Transferring to other Metro routes in Portland is necessary, adding considerable travel time and potential for delays. The Metro buses are equipped with ADA accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating, which is crucial for individuals with mobility challenges.

The limitations of public transportation, coupled with the need for transfers, significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. The lack of direct routes and the infrequent service make it an unreliable option for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Lung Cancer Score (Public Transportation Component): 1/5** (Due to limited service and indirect routes).

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Windham, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Surge pricing during periods of high demand can also make these options costly.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, provide a more specialized solution. These services, such as Carelink and several local providers, offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. While these services provide a valuable resource, they can be expensive, and advance booking is often required.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services partially mitigates the transportation challenges. However, the cost and potential unreliability of ride-sharing, coupled with the expense of medical transport, warrant careful consideration.

**Lung Cancer Score (Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport Component): 2/5** (Reflecting the availability, cost, and potential unreliability).

**Overall Lung Cancer Score and Considerations for Moving to Windham**

Based on the combined factors, the overall Lung Cancer Score for accessing healthcare in Windham, Maine (ZIP Code 04062) is a **2/5**. This score highlights the challenges associated with transportation, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transportation options, creates significant hurdles. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, their cost and potential unreliability must be carefully considered.

For individuals contemplating a move to Windham, this analysis underscores the importance of proactively assessing transportation needs. Prioritizing proximity to essential services, such as medical facilities, or ensuring access to reliable transportation options is crucial.

Before making a move, prospective residents should:

* **Evaluate their transportation needs:** Consider the frequency of medical appointments, mobility limitations, and financial resources.
* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify preferred oncology centers and assess their accessibility from various locations within Windham.
* **Investigate transportation options:** Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, medical transport providers, and public transportation routes.
* **Factor in commute times:** Account for potential delays due to traffic and weather conditions.
* **Consider the location within Windham:** The distance from the center of town to medical facilities can vary significantly.

Moving to Windham offers a beautiful environment, but understanding the realities of healthcare access is essential. Careful planning and proactive assessment of transportation needs are crucial for ensuring a smooth and supportive healthcare journey.