04664, Sullivan, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04664, Sullivan, Maine is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.19 percent of residents in 04664 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Blue Hill Memorial Hospital with a distance of 21.67 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sullivan, Maine (ZIP Code 04664)

The crisp, salt-laced air of Sullivan, Maine, a coastal haven in Hancock County, offers a tranquil backdrop for life. However, when facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis, the serene beauty can be overshadowed by the crucial need for timely and reliable access to healthcare. This write-up provides a detailed assessment of the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP code 04664, focusing on the multifaceted aspects of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. It's designed to inform individuals considering moving to Sullivan, or those already residing there, about the practical realities of navigating medical care in the area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical metric, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the logistical hurdles involved in receiving lung cancer treatment. This includes assessing the accessibility of diagnostic facilities, treatment centers, and supportive care services. Transportation is the cornerstone of this assessment, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of Sullivan is Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) in Bangor, approximately 30 miles away. The most direct route is via Route 1, a scenic coastal highway. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the time of year. During peak tourist seasons, especially summer, the drive can extend significantly, potentially impacting the timely arrival for appointments or treatments. Alternative routes include Route 185, which connects to Route 1, but it may not always be the fastest option.

Public transportation options are limited in Hancock County. There is no direct public bus service to Bangor from Sullivan. The Island Explorer bus system, which operates seasonally, primarily serves Acadia National Park and surrounding areas and is not a viable option for regular medical appointments. This lack of public transportation creates a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or those unable to drive due to their illness or treatment side effects. The absence of reliable public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bangor area. However, their presence in Sullivan is less consistent. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unpredictability poses a challenge for scheduling appointments and can result in longer wait times or even missed appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and the availability of these services can vary depending on the individual's insurance coverage and the company's capacity. It's crucial for individuals to investigate their insurance coverage and explore all available options to ensure access to medical transport when needed.

In the context of lung cancer treatment, the ability to travel to and from appointments is paramount. This includes diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans, chemotherapy infusions, radiation therapy sessions, and follow-up appointments with oncologists and other specialists. Delays or difficulties in transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and a compromised quality of life.

Beyond the primary treatment center in Bangor, residents may need to travel to other facilities for specialized care. For example, a pulmonologist might be located in Ellsworth, about a 20-minute drive from Sullivan via Route 1. The drive to Ellsworth is generally less congested than the route to Bangor. However, the need to navigate multiple locations adds complexity to the transportation equation.

The availability of support services, such as support groups, counseling, and palliative care, is also a crucial aspect of healthcare access. These services may be located in Bangor or other towns, further increasing the transportation burden. The ability to attend these appointments can significantly improve a patient's emotional and physical well-being.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Sullivan, Maine (ZIP code 04664) is, therefore, significantly influenced by the limitations of transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the inconsistency of ride-sharing services, and the cost and availability of medical transport create potential barriers to healthcare access. The lack of public transportation exacerbates these challenges, particularly for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

For those considering moving to Sullivan, or already residing there, it is essential to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and plan accordingly. This includes assessing the availability of reliable transportation, exploring the costs of various options, and understanding the potential impact of travel time on their treatment plan.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static measure. It can be improved by proactive planning, including:

* **Early planning:** Before moving to Sullivan, research the availability of healthcare facilities and transportation options.
* **Insurance coverage:** Ensure comprehensive insurance coverage that includes transportation benefits.
* **Networking:** Connect with local resources, such as patient advocacy groups, to explore transportation assistance programs.
* **Planning:** Create a transportation plan that accounts for all appointments and potential travel delays.
* **Advocacy:** Support the development of improved public transportation options and ride-sharing services in the area.

In conclusion, while Sullivan offers a beautiful and tranquil environment, navigating healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer treatment, requires careful consideration of the transportation landscape. By understanding the challenges and proactively planning for them, residents can improve their "Lung Cancer Score" and ensure timely and effective access to the care they need. The beauty of the Maine coast should be accessible to all, and that includes healthcare.