04562, Phippsburg, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04562, Phippsburg, Maine is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.00 percent of residents in 04562 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mid Coast Hospital with a distance of 8.69 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Phippsburg, Maine (ZIP Code 04562)

The salty air and rugged coastline of Phippsburg, Maine (ZIP Code 04562), offer a picturesque setting, drawing individuals seeking a tranquil lifestyle. However, the promise of serenity must be balanced with the practicalities of life, especially concerning healthcare access. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of Phippsburg, considering the critical element of **transportation** and its impact on accessing potentially life-saving treatment. The score reflects the ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare landscape, specifically for those diagnosed with lung cancer, a disease requiring prompt and consistent care.

The primary concern for Phippsburg residents is its relative isolation. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities equipped to handle lung cancer diagnoses and treatment, including surgical interventions, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, are located in Bath and Brunswick. This geographical reality significantly influences the Lung Cancer Score, as **healthcare access** is directly tied to the availability and efficiency of **transportation** options.

For those with the physical capacity to drive, the journey to Bath, approximately 15 miles, is the most common route. The primary artery is Route 1, a major coastal highway. The drive typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day. However, during peak tourist season, especially in the summer months, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour, adding significant stress for patients undergoing treatment. The drive involves navigating a two-lane highway, with limited passing opportunities, which can be challenging for individuals experiencing fatigue or other side effects of cancer treatment.

The journey to Brunswick, roughly 25 miles, is another option, often involving Route 1 and Route 209, or a combination of Route 1 and Route 24. This drive typically takes between 35 and 45 minutes, again influenced by traffic patterns. The route involves similar challenges as the Bath commute, including the potential for delays and the need for a driver capable of handling the physical demands of the road. The condition of the roads, especially during winter months, can also become a significant factor, potentially delaying or even preventing access to care.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Phippsburg. The local bus service, run by the Kennebec Valley Community Action Program (KVCAP), provides some routes in the area. However, these routes are infrequent and primarily designed to serve the needs of the general population, not specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients. The schedules may not align with appointment times, and the routes may not directly serve the medical facilities in Bath or Brunswick. Information on specific route numbers and ADA accessibility features is difficult to find, further complicating the use of public **transportation** for those requiring medical care. This lack of readily available and reliable public **transportation** significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. While they offer a potentially convenient solution, the cost of frequent rides to and from medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in a rural area like Phippsburg may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty further reduces the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the area, including LifeFlight of Maine, and local ambulance services. However, these services are often reserved for emergencies or patients with specific medical needs. The cost of these services can also be substantial, and they may not be readily available for routine appointments. This underscores the challenges faced by individuals with lung cancer in accessing timely and affordable **transportation**.

The lack of readily accessible and affordable **transportation** significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. For individuals **moving to Phippsburg**, this factor should be a primary consideration. The score is further affected by the absence of a local oncology center or a satellite clinic. This forces patients to travel to receive treatment, adding to the physical and emotional burden of the disease.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, which can assist patients in coordinating appointments and navigating the healthcare system. The presence of these services can mitigate some of the challenges associated with **transportation**. However, the effectiveness of these services is directly tied to the accessibility of the medical facilities they serve.

The score also considers the availability of telehealth services, which can allow patients to consult with their healthcare providers remotely. While telehealth can reduce the need for in-person appointments, it is not a substitute for all types of care, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Furthermore, access to reliable internet connectivity is essential for utilizing telehealth services, which can be a challenge in some areas of Phippsburg.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for residents of Phippsburg (ZIP Code 04562) is moderate to low. The primary challenges are the geographical isolation, the limited public **transportation** options, the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the lack of local medical facilities. While medical **transportation** services exist, they may not be suitable for all patients. The drive times to medical facilities, while manageable, can be affected by traffic and weather conditions. For individuals considering **moving to Phippsburg**, a thorough evaluation of their **transportation** needs and the availability of healthcare resources is essential. The ability to drive, the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical **transportation**, and the availability of support networks are all crucial factors in navigating the healthcare landscape and ensuring timely access to life-saving lung cancer treatment. The score reflects the complex interplay between geography, **transportation**, and **healthcare access**, emphasizing the need for careful planning and consideration for those facing the challenges of lung cancer in this beautiful but geographically isolated coastal community.