04616, Brooklin, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04616, Brooklin, Maine is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.43 percent of residents in 04616 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Blue Hill Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.59 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brooklin, Maine (ZIP Code 04616)

The diagnosis of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding immediate and comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Brooklin, Maine (ZIP code 04616), the journey to receive that care is a critical aspect of their well-being. This "Lung Cancer Score" analyzes the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which individuals can access necessary medical services. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and specialized medical transport, painting a picture of healthcare access for those facing this challenging disease. The goal is to illuminate the practical realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, crucial factors for anyone considering **moving to Brooklin** or currently residing within its borders.

Brooklin, a charming coastal community, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare accessibility. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are not within walking distance, necessitating reliance on various forms of **transportation**. This score assesses the availability and practicality of each mode, ultimately offering a glimpse into the potential hurdles and advantages faced by individuals diagnosed with lung cancer.

**Drive Time and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents will be personal vehicles. The most direct route to larger medical facilities involves navigating the local road network. The drive to Blue Hill Memorial Hospital, approximately 10 miles away, is typically a manageable 20-30 minute journey, primarily via Maine State Route 175. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times.

For more specialized care, such as oncology services, residents often need to travel further. Bangor, approximately 50 miles away, is home to Eastern Maine Medical Center (Northern Light Health), a major healthcare provider. The drive to Bangor, primarily via US Route 1 and then Interstate 95 (I-95), can take anywhere from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The I-95 portion, while a major highway, can experience congestion, particularly during peak travel times.

The drive to Portland, Maine, a major medical hub with specialized cancer centers like Maine Medical Center, is a significantly longer undertaking, roughly 160 miles. This journey, primarily on I-95, can take between 3 and 4 hours, making it a demanding trip for frequent appointments. Road closures and weather events, especially during winter, can drastically extend travel times, impacting the timely delivery of care.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public **transportation** options in Brooklin are limited. Hancock County, where Brooklin is located, has a rural character, and public transit infrastructure is less developed compared to urban areas. The Island Explorer bus service, which operates seasonally and primarily serves Acadia National Park and surrounding areas, might offer limited routes that could be used to access some medical appointments, but it is not a reliable or frequent option for regular cancer treatment.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. While the Island Explorer buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts, their limited service area and frequency make them unsuitable for many patients. Furthermore, the long distances and potential for multiple transfers make public transit a challenging option for those undergoing treatment, often experiencing fatigue and other side effects.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bangor area, but their presence in Brooklin is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments is, therefore, risky. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for regular trips.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies, such as MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR), provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be pre-booked and offer door-to-door service, making them a valuable option for patients who cannot drive or require assistance. However, these services can be costly, and availability may be limited, especially during peak demand.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the challenges faced by Brooklin residents in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential for unpredictable ride-sharing availability create significant hurdles. Long drive times to specialized care facilities, particularly in Bangor and Portland, can add stress and inconvenience to an already difficult situation.

For individuals considering **moving to Brooklin**, or for current residents, the accessibility of healthcare should be a primary consideration. The lack of readily available public **transportation** and the dependence on private vehicles place a considerable burden on patients and their families. Planning for medical appointments, considering the potential for travel delays, and exploring all available **transportation** options are essential.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

This "Lung Cancer Score" underscores the importance of proactive planning for healthcare access in Brooklin. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available **transportation** options, including medical transport services. Exploring support networks, such as family and friends, who can provide assistance with **transportation**, is also crucial.

For those considering **moving to Brooklin**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and the availability of **transportation** is vital. This includes understanding the drive times to medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport.

In conclusion, while Brooklin offers a beautiful and tranquil environment, the challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for those diagnosed with lung cancer, should not be underestimated. A comprehensive understanding of the **transportation** landscape, coupled with proactive planning and access to reliable support systems, is essential to ensuring timely and effective care. This "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical tool for evaluating the realities of **healthcare access** in this community, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.