04625, Cranberry Isles, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04625, Cranberry Isles, Maine is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.36 percent of residents in 04625 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Desert Island Hospital with a distance of 9.78 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 04625

The air, crisp and salt-laced, whispers secrets across the islands of 04625. This coastal Maine ZIP code, encompassing the Cranberry Isles, paints a picture of rugged beauty, a haven for those seeking solace and a slower pace of life. Yet, the very geography that defines this idyllic existence presents a significant challenge: **healthcare access**. For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, timely and consistent access to specialized care is paramount, making the intricacies of **transportation** a critical factor in their survival and quality of life. This analysis delves into the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape for lung cancer patients in 04625, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the available options.

The primary determinant of this score is the distance and difficulty in reaching comprehensive cancer care. The nearest hospitals offering specialized oncology services are located on the mainland, a journey that requires a combination of ferry, car, and potentially ambulance services. The Cranberry Isles, being islands, rely on the Maine State Ferry Service for transport to and from the mainland. The ferry operates between the islands and Southwest Harbor, a town on Mount Desert Island.

Once on Mount Desert Island, the primary route to access larger hospitals and cancer centers involves driving. The most direct route utilizes Route 102, a scenic but winding road that connects Southwest Harbor to Bar Harbor. From Bar Harbor, patients can access Jackson Laboratory, a renowned biomedical research institute with a strong focus on cancer research, though it doesn’t offer comprehensive treatment. For comprehensive cancer care, patients must travel further.

The most likely destination for advanced cancer treatment is Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) in Bangor, a city approximately 70 miles from Southwest Harbor. This journey involves taking Route 102 to Route 3, then connecting to US-1A, and finally to I-95 North. The drive, without traffic, can take approximately two hours. However, Maine weather, particularly during the harsh winter months, can significantly impact drive times, making the journey considerably longer and more treacherous.

Another option, though further afield, is Maine Medical Center in Portland, roughly 170 miles from Southwest Harbor. This route involves taking Route 102 to Route 3, then connecting to US-1A, and finally to I-95 South. The drive to Portland, even in ideal conditions, can take upwards of three and a half hours. This extended travel time poses a considerable challenge for patients undergoing frequent treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public **transportation** options are limited. The Island Explorer bus system, a free service during the summer months, operates on Mount Desert Island but does not connect directly to Bangor or Portland. Therefore, relying solely on public transit for cancer treatment is not a feasible option. The ferry service, while reliable, is subject to weather conditions and schedule limitations, adding another layer of complexity to the journey. ADA-accessible features on the ferry and at the Southwest Harbor terminal are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the subsequent legs of the journey require private or hired transport.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available on Mount Desert Island but may be limited in availability, especially during off-season. Relying on these services for regular appointments is not recommended. Medical **transportation** services are available, with companies like LifeFlight of Maine offering air ambulance services for critical situations. However, this service is reserved for emergencies and is not a viable option for routine appointments. Ground ambulance services are also available, but their availability and response times can be affected by the island location and the distance to the mainland hospitals.

For individuals considering **moving to Cranberry Isles**, the availability and accessibility of healthcare services should be a primary concern, especially for those with pre-existing conditions or a family history of cancer. The isolation of the islands necessitates careful planning and consideration of the logistical challenges involved in accessing timely and comprehensive cancer care. The reliance on ferry service, the potential for inclement weather, and the long distances to specialized treatment centers all contribute to a complex healthcare access landscape.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 04625 is therefore significantly impacted by these factors. The score is based on a combination of factors: travel time to treatment centers, reliability of **transportation** options, availability of medical support services, and the potential impact of weather conditions. Given the reliance on ferry service, the long drive times, and the limited public transit options, the score reflects a moderate to high level of difficulty in accessing timely and consistent cancer care.

The score also takes into account the availability of support services. While the islands themselves may have limited resources, access to patient navigators, support groups, and telehealth services can help mitigate some of the challenges. These resources can provide crucial support and guidance to patients and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. The presence of a strong community network, where neighbors support each other, can also play a vital role in providing assistance with **transportation** and other needs.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 04625 reflects the reality of living in a remote location with limited **healthcare access**. While the beauty and tranquility of the islands are undeniable, the challenges of accessing specialized cancer care must be carefully considered. For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, the journey to treatment requires careful planning, reliance on multiple modes of **transportation**, and the unwavering support of family, friends, and the healthcare community. The score serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive planning, open communication with healthcare providers, and a willingness to adapt to the unique challenges of island living. This is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating **moving to Cranberry Isles**, ensuring they are prepared for the realities of healthcare access in this beautiful but geographically isolated community.