04653, Bass Harbor, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04653, Bass Harbor, Maine is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.07 percent of residents in 04653 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Desert Island Hospital with a distance of 12.26 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04653

The crisp salt air of Bass Harbor, Maine, in ZIP Code 04653, promises a life of tranquility and natural beauty. However, for individuals considering a move to this picturesque locale, particularly those with or at risk of lung cancer, the reality of healthcare access demands careful consideration. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, evaluating the commute to essential medical services and generating a "Lung Cancer Score" to reflect the challenges and opportunities presented.

The score is not a definitive medical assessment but rather a tool to help potential residents understand the practicalities of accessing specialized care. It considers drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all crucial factors in managing lung cancer. The higher the score, the more accessible healthcare is deemed to be.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery connecting Bass Harbor to the broader healthcare network is Route 102, a winding road that hugs the coastline. While scenic, it can be slow-going, especially during peak tourist seasons. The drive to the nearest hospital with oncology services, Maine Coast Memorial Hospital in Ellsworth, covers approximately 50 miles. Under ideal conditions, this journey takes around one hour and 15 minutes. However, traffic, weather, and road conditions can significantly extend this time.

From Bass Harbor, one would head north on Route 102, eventually merging onto Route 186, which leads to Route 1. Route 1 is the main north-south thoroughfare in the area, taking travelers to Ellsworth. The drive involves navigating curves, occasional narrow sections, and the potential for delays. In winter, snow and ice can make this route treacherous, adding to the travel time and necessitating careful planning.

The drive to larger medical centers in Bangor, such as Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, is approximately 75 miles and can take up to two hours, depending on traffic. This longer distance necessitates careful consideration of travel time, especially for frequent appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. The route involves Route 102, Route 186, and Route 1 to I-395, a short interstate stretch to the medical center.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 04653 are limited. The Island Explorer, a free bus service operating during the tourist season, offers routes that connect various points on Mount Desert Island, including Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor. However, this service is seasonal, primarily running from late May to mid-October. It does not directly serve Ellsworth or Bangor, making it unsuitable for regular medical appointments.

The Island Explorer does offer limited routes that could connect to a regional transportation hub, potentially allowing for a transfer to a longer-distance bus service. However, these connections are infrequent, and the overall travel time would be significantly extended. ADA accessibility on the Island Explorer is available, with ramps and designated seating. The service is designed to be user-friendly for individuals with mobility challenges.

Outside of the tourist season, public transportation options are virtually nonexistent in the immediate area. Residents would need to rely on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport. This lack of public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a car or who are unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent. Availability is highly dependent on driver availability, which is often limited, especially in less populated areas like Bass Harbor. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable and expensive.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option. Companies like MedStar and LifeFlight of Maine provide ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, including those requiring specialized care. However, these services can be costly and may require prior arrangements.

**Lung Cancer Score Calculation:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is calculated based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Hospital with Oncology Services:** (Weight: 30%) – Reflects the time required to access essential medical care.
* **Availability of Public Transportation:** (Weight: 20%) – Considers the presence and accessibility of public transit options.
* **Reliability of Ride-Sharing Services:** (Weight: 15%) – Assesses the dependability of ride-sharing options.
* **Cost and Availability of Medical Transport:** (Weight: 20%) – Evaluates the financial burden and accessibility of specialized medical transport.
* **Seasonal Considerations:** (Weight: 15%) – Accounts for the impact of weather and tourism on transportation.

Based on the above assessment, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 04653 is estimated to be a **4 out of 10.** This score reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access in this area. The long drive times, limited public transportation, and reliance on potentially unreliable ride-sharing services contribute to the lower score.

**Implications for Individuals with Lung Cancer:**

For individuals with lung cancer or at high risk, the transportation challenges in ZIP Code 04653 necessitate careful planning and consideration. Regular appointments, treatments, and potential emergencies require reliable access to healthcare. Individuals should consider the following:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is essential for accessing medical care.
* **Transportation Planning:** Develop a detailed transportation plan, including backup options, for all medical appointments.
* **Financial Planning:** Budget for the costs of transportation, including gas, maintenance, and potential ride-sharing or medical transport fees.
* **Proximity to Care:** Consider the proximity of medical facilities when choosing a residence.
* **Support System:** Build a strong support system of family, friends, or caregivers who can assist with transportation.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Bass Harbor, Maine, offers a unique lifestyle. However, individuals with or at risk of lung cancer must acknowledge the transportation challenges related to healthcare access. While the area offers natural beauty and tranquility, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need for proactive planning and careful consideration of transportation logistics. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring the best possible outcomes. The remoteness, while appealing, creates a significant hurdle in the critical journey to healthcare.