04263, Leeds, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04263, Leeds, Maine is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.52 percent of residents in 04263 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.91 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Leeds, Maine (ZIP Code 04263)

The crisp air and rolling hills of Leeds, Maine (ZIP Code 04263), offer a serene backdrop for life. Yet, when facing a serious health concern like lung cancer, the tranquility can be shattered by the complexities of healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for residents of Leeds, focusing on the crucial aspect of **transportation** to and from medical appointments. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of **healthcare access** for those facing this challenging diagnosis. For individuals **moving to Leeds**, understanding these factors is paramount.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade; it’s a comprehensive evaluation, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the existing infrastructure. This analysis considers the urgency of appointments, the frequency of treatments (like chemotherapy or radiation), and the potential physical limitations of a patient. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge needed to plan for their care effectively.

**Driving Times: The Primary Route**

For most Leeds residents, the car remains the primary mode of **transportation**. The journey to healthcare facilities in the area hinges on navigating the region's roads. The most direct route to Lewiston, the closest city with significant medical resources, involves taking Route 106. This scenic byway winds through the heart of Leeds, offering a relatively smooth and predictable drive.

The drive to Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Leeds. This time can be slightly longer during peak commuting hours or inclement weather. Route 106 connects directly to Main Street in Lewiston, providing easy access to CMMC and other medical offices.

For specialized care or consultations, patients might need to travel further. The journey to Maine Medical Center in Portland, a more comprehensive facility, involves taking Route 106 to Interstate 95 (I-95) South. The total drive time to Portland can range from one hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Leeds are limited, which significantly impacts the **healthcare access** landscape. The Greater Lewiston-Auburn Transit (GLA) operates a bus service, but its coverage in Leeds is minimal. The routes primarily serve the Lewiston-Auburn area, with limited extensions into the surrounding towns.

Currently, there are no direct GLA bus routes that serve the entirety of Leeds. Residents would likely need to drive to a designated pick-up point, potentially in the neighboring town of Turner, to access the bus system. The bus schedules and frequency may not align well with the often-demanding schedules of medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. While GLA strives to provide accessible services, the limited route coverage in Leeds poses a significant challenge.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Lewiston-Auburn area, offering an alternative **transportation** option. However, their availability in Leeds might be less consistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, play a vital role. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including LifeFlight of Maine (for air ambulance services in emergencies), and various ground transportation providers.

These services can be invaluable for patients who are unable to drive or lack access to other forms of **transportation**. However, it’s essential to research and compare the services offered, including insurance coverage, cost, and the types of vehicles available (e.g., wheelchair-accessible vans). Booking in advance is crucial, as demand for these services can be high.

**Considerations for Moving to Leeds**

For individuals considering **moving to Leeds**, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of evaluating **healthcare access** as a critical factor. While Leeds offers a peaceful lifestyle, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning for medical needs.

Potential residents should research the location of healthcare providers, the availability of medical transport services, and the potential drive times to appointments. Assessing the availability of family or friends who can provide **transportation** support is also essential.

**The Score: A Holistic View**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Leeds, Maine, reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Lewiston and the relatively short drive times to CMMC are positive factors. However, the limited public transit options, the potential challenges with ride-sharing availability, and the reliance on personal vehicles or specialized medical transport services create potential barriers to **healthcare access**.

For those diagnosed with lung cancer, the score emphasizes the need for proactive planning. Establishing a reliable **transportation** plan is paramount. This might involve relying on family or friends, utilizing ride-sharing services, or arranging for medical transport.

The score also underscores the importance of open communication with healthcare providers. Discussing **transportation** challenges and seeking guidance on resources can help patients navigate the complexities of their care. Furthermore, exploring the potential for telehealth appointments, where appropriate, can reduce the need for frequent travel.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Leeds is not a definitive judgment but a call to action. It urges residents to proactively assess their **transportation** needs, explore available resources, and advocate for improved **healthcare access** within their community. For those **moving to Leeds**, it serves as a reminder to integrate healthcare considerations into their relocation plans, ensuring they can receive the care they need in a timely and accessible manner.