The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04631, Eastport, Maine is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
81.62 percent of residents in 04631 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calais Community Hospital with a distance of 22.64 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 04631, Eastport, Maine
Lung Cancer Score | 50 |
---|---|
People Score | 45 |
Provider Score | 96 |
Hospital Score | 44 |
Travel Score | 8 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 04631 | Eastport | Maine |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.84 | 1.84 | 2.13 |
1 Car | 35.71 | 35.71 | 18.39 |
2 Cars | 36.18 | 36.18 | 45.49 |
3 or More Cars | 26.27 | 26.27 | 34.00 |
Vehicular Access in 04631, Eastport, Maine
## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Eastport, Maine (ZIP Code 04631)
Eastport, Maine, a town steeped in maritime history and breathtaking coastal beauty, presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, isn't a medical assessment, but a practical guide to understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing vital care within the 04631 ZIP code. This analysis will consider the realities of moving to Eastport, weighing the transportation options available to individuals and families seeking treatment for lung cancer.
The cornerstone of healthcare access in Eastport, as with many rural communities, is the reliance on personal vehicles. Driving remains the most direct and often the fastest method of reaching medical facilities. The primary thoroughfare connecting Eastport to the broader healthcare network is Route 1, a scenic but often winding coastal highway. Heading west on Route 1, the nearest hospitals with comprehensive oncology services are located in Ellsworth, approximately 80 miles away. This drive, under ideal conditions, can take roughly an hour and 45 minutes.
However, the reality of Maine winters, with their snow and ice, can significantly impact drive times. Road closures and hazardous conditions are common, potentially extending the commute to Ellsworth by an hour or more. Furthermore, the condition of Route 1, particularly sections that traverse smaller towns, can vary, adding to travel time. Alternative routes, such as Route 189, offer a more direct path to the Canadian border, but they do not lead to any medical facilities.
For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options become crucial. The Downeast Transportation, a regional transit provider, offers limited bus services within Washington County. However, these routes are infrequent and primarily designed for essential errands, such as grocery shopping and local appointments. While the Downeast Transportation does operate some routes along Route 1, reaching Ellsworth from Eastport via bus is a time-consuming endeavor, often requiring multiple transfers and potentially taking upwards of four hours.
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is a critical consideration for patients undergoing lung cancer treatment. All Downeast Transportation buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. Nevertheless, the extended travel times and potential for multiple transfers can be physically taxing for patients already weakened by their illness and treatments.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in the Eastport area. This lack of access to on-demand transportation further complicates the challenge of healthcare access. Residents needing rides rely on local taxi services, which are limited in availability and can be expensive, especially for long-distance trips to Ellsworth or other medical centers. This absence of ride-sharing options can create significant barriers for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. These services, often provided by private companies or non-profit organizations, prioritize patient comfort and safety. While these services are available, they can be costly, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially long wait times. Furthermore, the availability of these services may vary depending on the patient's insurance coverage.
The availability of these medical transportation services is a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Eastport with a lung cancer diagnosis. Understanding the cost, scheduling requirements, and insurance coverage associated with these services is essential for ensuring access to consistent and timely medical care.
The nearest hospital with a dedicated oncology department, Maine Coast Memorial Hospital in Ellsworth, offers a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. However, the distance and the transportation challenges can create significant stress for patients and their families. The need for frequent appointments, including chemotherapy infusions, radiation treatments, and follow-up visits, necessitates careful planning and logistical coordination.
Another healthcare option is the Calais Regional Hospital, approximately 50 miles west of Eastport. While Calais Regional Hospital offers some basic medical services, including primary care and urgent care, it does not have a dedicated oncology department. Therefore, patients needing specialized cancer treatment will still need to travel to Ellsworth or other regional medical centers.
The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond the physical act of traveling. The time spent commuting, the stress of navigating challenging road conditions, and the financial burden of transportation costs can all contribute to a patient's overall well-being. These factors can also impact treatment adherence, as patients may be less likely to attend appointments if transportation is difficult or unreliable.
For those considering moving to Eastport, a comprehensive assessment of the transportation options is vital. This assessment should include an evaluation of personal vehicle availability, the accessibility of public transportation, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and availability of medical transportation services.
The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, is a reminder that healthcare access is not solely about the quality of medical care. It is also about the ability to reach that care. In Eastport, the limitations of transportation create significant hurdles for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Careful planning, including a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape, is essential for ensuring access to timely and effective treatment.
Ultimately, the decision to move to Eastport, or any rural community, with a lung cancer diagnosis, necessitates a thoughtful evaluation of the available healthcare resources and the transportation options needed to access them. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a tool to help individuals and families navigate these complexities, ensuring that they can prioritize their health and well-being. The beauty and tranquility of Eastport should not be overshadowed by the challenges of healthcare access.
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