04413, Brookton, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04413, Brookton, Maine is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.37 percent of residents in 04413 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 38.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penobscot Valley Hospital with a distance of 41.03 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brookton, Maine (ZIP Code 04413)

The crisp air of Brookton, Maine, promises a life intertwined with nature's rhythms. Yet, when the specter of lung cancer looms, the serenity can shatter. Understanding the accessibility of healthcare becomes paramount, especially concerning the vital element of **transportation**. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 04413, analyzing the challenges and opportunities in reaching crucial medical services. This is not a clinical assessment, but a practical guide to **healthcare access** in the context of **moving to Brookton**.

Brookton, a rural community nestled in Washington County, presents unique **transportation** hurdles. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in Bangor, approximately 60 miles away. This distance translates into significant travel times, crucial considerations for individuals battling lung cancer, requiring frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Brookton residents is personal vehicle. The most direct route to Bangor involves taking Route 1 from Brookton to Route 9. This stretch, approximately 50 miles, is largely a two-lane highway, subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Maine winters. Expect drive times to fluctuate considerably, averaging around 1 hour and 15 minutes in ideal conditions. Route 9 then leads to I-95, the final leg into Bangor, adding another 10 miles and about 15 minutes to the journey.

Traffic in this region is generally light, except during peak commuting hours and occasional events. However, the rural nature of the roads means limited emergency services along the route. Therefore, planning for potential delays, such as vehicle breakdowns or adverse weather, is essential.

Public **transportation** options are severely limited in this area. There is no direct public bus service connecting Brookton to Bangor. The closest public **transportation** option is the Downeast Transportation Inc. (DTI) bus service. DTI operates routes in Washington County, but these routes primarily serve local communities and do not provide a direct or practical connection to Bangor. Furthermore, the frequency of DTI services is limited, and the routes are not designed for frequent medical appointments. The accessibility of DTI buses for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) varies by route and vehicle; it is recommended to contact DTI directly for specific information regarding wheelchair accessibility and other accommodations.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are virtually non-existent in Brookton and the surrounding areas. The sparse population density and limited demand make it economically unviable for these services to operate. This leaves residents with few options beyond personal vehicles or pre-arranged **transportation**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Several companies operate in Maine, including but not limited to, MedCare Ambulance Service and LifeFlight of Maine. These services typically require advance booking and can be costly, but they provide a reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The availability of these services in Brookton and their coverage area to Bangor should be confirmed directly with the providers.

For individuals with lung cancer, the time spent traveling to and from medical appointments can be physically and emotionally taxing. The extended drive times, limited public **transportation**, and the absence of ride-sharing services create significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles places a burden on patients and their caregivers, requiring them to navigate long distances, potentially in difficult weather conditions.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Brookton, therefore, reflects these realities. It highlights the importance of proactive planning, including securing reliable **transportation** arrangements, exploring medical **transportation** options, and considering the potential impact of long travel times on treatment adherence and overall well-being.

For someone considering **moving to Brookton**, the accessibility of healthcare should be a central consideration. The absence of readily available public **transportation** and ride-sharing services necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged **transportation**. This requires careful planning and budgeting for the costs associated with travel, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and potential medical **transportation** expenses.

The local healthcare infrastructure in Bangor, including Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC), offers comprehensive cancer care services. However, the distance from Brookton to EMMC adds a layer of complexity to accessing these services. The drive, primarily on Route 1, Route 9, and I-95, demands careful consideration of weather conditions, potential delays, and the physical demands of travel.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also underscores the importance of community support. Family, friends, and local organizations can play a vital role in providing **transportation** assistance, offering emotional support, and helping patients navigate the complexities of healthcare access.

In conclusion, while Brookton offers the tranquility of rural living, the **transportation** challenges to accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals with lung cancer, are significant. Residents must proactively plan for their medical needs, considering the long drive times, limited public **transportation**, and the absence of ride-sharing services. Medical **transportation** services can provide a lifeline, but they require advance planning and can be costly. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding these challenges and seeking support to ensure timely access to life-saving medical care. When **moving to Brookton**, a thorough assessment of these **transportation** considerations is essential for ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life.