04292, Sumner, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04292, Sumner, Maine is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.15 percent of residents in 04292 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stephens Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.24 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 04292 (Sumner, Maine)**

The air in Sumner, Maine, carries the scent of pine and the quietude of a rural existence. But for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, this tranquility can be shattered by the complexities of healthcare access. This report examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 04292, assessing its impact on timely medical care, a critical factor in lung cancer outcomes. Understanding these transportation realities is paramount for anyone considering moving to Sumner or for those already residing there, particularly those with or at risk of lung cancer.

Sumner, nestled in Oxford County, presents unique challenges. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are in Lewiston, a drive that can be a significant undertaking, especially for individuals weakened by illness or facing frequent appointments. The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, considers the efficiency, reliability, and accessibility of available transportation options. This score informs the ease with which residents can reach diagnostic services, treatment centers, and follow-up care, ultimately impacting their overall prognosis and quality of life.

The primary mode of transportation in Sumner is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The journey to Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston, a major healthcare provider, typically involves navigating Route 219 to Route 100, then merging onto the Maine Turnpike (I-95) South. The distance is approximately 30 miles, and under ideal conditions, the drive takes about 45 minutes. However, this estimate doesn't account for weather, traffic, or the physical limitations of a patient. Winter storms, common in Maine, can transform a routine drive into a perilous journey, potentially delaying critical appointments or exacerbating a patient's anxiety.

Alternatively, a slightly longer route involves Route 219 to Route 100, then to Route 4, which eventually leads to Lewiston. This route, while avoiding the toll of the Maine Turnpike, can be more congested, particularly during peak hours. The roads are generally well-maintained, but the rural nature of the area means limited shoulder space and fewer emergency services readily available. These factors can be particularly concerning for individuals experiencing a medical emergency while en route to a hospital.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural environment. The Greater Portland METRO, which serves the Portland area, does not extend to Sumner. The Lewiston-Auburn Transit System (LATS) provides some service within the Lewiston-Auburn area, but its routes do not directly serve Sumner. While LATS might be an option for those who can get to the Lewiston-Auburn area, the initial transportation to a LATS stop becomes a significant hurdle for many Sumner residents. This lack of accessible public transportation significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lewiston-Auburn area, but their availability in Sumner is less reliable. The distance from Lewiston, combined with the potentially low demand in Sumner, may result in longer wait times and higher fares. This can be a significant financial burden for patients already facing the costs of medical treatment. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, making it an unreliable option for scheduled appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, are another option. Companies like Med-Ride and others offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, making them a less accessible option for those with limited financial resources. The availability of these services in the Sumner area needs to be carefully considered.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access. Public transportation options, if available, must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers should also adhere to ADA guidelines, ensuring that patients with mobility issues can access their services. This includes wheelchair-accessible vehicles and drivers trained to assist patients with disabilities.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 04292 is significantly impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transportation, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create challenges for patients. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable under ideal conditions, are subject to the vagaries of weather and traffic. These factors can lead to delayed appointments, increased stress, and a reduced quality of life for lung cancer patients.

For individuals considering moving to Sumner, a careful evaluation of transportation options is crucial. Those with or at risk of lung cancer should factor in the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. It is essential to assess the availability of reliable transportation, the financial implications of ride-sharing or medical transportation, and the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of local support services. The presence of community health programs, support groups, and home healthcare options can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. These resources can provide patients with valuable assistance and reduce the burden of travel.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in Sumner, Maine, presents significant challenges for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services impact the Lung Cancer Score. While the drive to Lewiston is feasible, factors such as weather, traffic, and the physical limitations of the patient must be considered. For those considering moving to Sumner or already residing there, a comprehensive understanding of these transportation realities is essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare and improving the overall prognosis and quality of life for lung cancer patients.