04290, Peru, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04290, Peru, Maine is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.35 percent of residents in 04290 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rumford Hospital with a distance of 7.42 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 04290

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and efficient healthcare access. This analysis, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 04290 (Peru, Maine), examines the crucial element of transportation, a vital component of a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score'. We delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture of healthcare access in this community. This information is critical for informed decisions, particularly for those facing a diagnosis or considering relocating, perhaps even **moving to Peru**.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 04290 is Rumford Hospital, located a short distance away. The most common route involves navigating **Route 2**, a well-maintained highway that typically delivers patients to the hospital within 10 to 15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. A secondary route, utilizing **Route 17** and connecting to **Route 2**, adds a few minutes to the journey, offering an alternative in case of congestion on the primary artery. The condition of the roads is generally good, especially during the warmer months, though winter weather can significantly impact drive times, necessitating careful planning and potentially delaying treatment.

Beyond Rumford Hospital, more specialized care, including oncological services, often requires travel to larger medical centers in Lewiston or Portland. The journey to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, a major regional hospital, involves a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, primarily via **Route 4**. This route, while generally reliable, can experience delays, particularly during peak commuting hours. The drive to Maine Medical Center in Portland, offering comprehensive cancer care, is considerably longer, taking roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, primarily via **Interstate 95** (I-95). This longer commute necessitates careful consideration, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

Public transportation options within 04290 are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access. The Greater Portland Transit District (GPTD) does not extend its services to this area. Local options are sparse. The River Valley Riders, a demand-response transit service, offers limited transportation within the region, including to Rumford Hospital. However, this service requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent appointments or those requiring frequent trips. Riders must call the office and schedule their rides.

ADA accessibility varies depending on the specific vehicle and route. Those reliant on public transit should confirm accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating, when booking. The lack of robust public transit underscores the importance of exploring alternative **transportation** solutions.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate, and wait times can be longer, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Patients should plan ahead and consider pre-booking rides, especially for appointments at distant locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent trips.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. MedStar Ambulance and LifeFlight of Maine provide emergency medical services, including transport to hospitals. These services are crucial in critical situations, but they are not typically used for routine appointments. Non-emergency medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or private providers, can provide scheduled transportation for appointments and treatments. These services often cater to patients with mobility limitations or those unable to drive themselves.

The **healthcare access** landscape in 04290 presents a mixed bag. While Rumford Hospital provides convenient local care, access to specialized services requires longer travel times. The lack of reliable public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers for some patients. The reliance on personal vehicles emphasizes the importance of car ownership or access to a reliable driver. For individuals considering **moving to Peru**, understanding these **transportation** challenges is paramount.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for 04290, therefore, reflects a moderate level of accessibility. The proximity to Rumford Hospital offers a positive aspect, while the longer commutes to specialized care centers and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but their reliability and cost should be carefully considered.

Ultimately, the ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively is crucial for patients in 04290. Proactive planning, including identifying reliable **transportation** options and understanding potential delays, can significantly improve the 'Lung Cancer Score' and ensure timely access to vital healthcare services. This is especially important for those considering a move to this area, emphasizing the need to factor in these considerations when evaluating their **healthcare access**.