04675, Seal Harbor, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04675, Seal Harbor, Maine is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.22 percent of residents in 04675 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Desert Island Hospital with a distance of 6.20 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Seal Harbor, Maine (ZIP Code 04675)

The picturesque coastal community of Seal Harbor, Maine (ZIP Code 04675), offers stunning natural beauty and a tranquil lifestyle. However, for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the idyllic setting presents a complex challenge: healthcare access. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluates the transportation landscape, a critical factor in determining a patient's ability to receive timely and comprehensive care. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all crucial elements in the fight against this formidable disease.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the understanding that lung cancer treatment demands consistent and often frequent appointments. These can include diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgical consultations, and follow-up visits. The ability to reliably reach these appointments is paramount, impacting treatment adherence, patient outcomes, and overall quality of life. Our score will illuminate the realities of transportation challenges and opportunities for residents of Seal Harbor, a consideration for anyone moving to the area.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The primary mode of transportation in this region is the automobile. For residents of Seal Harbor, the closest major medical facilities are located in Bar Harbor and Ellsworth. The journey to these centers, while scenic, can be time-consuming, especially during peak tourist season.

To access Mount Desert Island Hospital in Bar Harbor, a drive of approximately 10 miles is required. The primary route is via Route 198, a winding road that offers breathtaking views of Acadia National Park. Under normal traffic conditions, the drive takes around 20 to 25 minutes. However, during the summer months, when the island teems with visitors, congestion can significantly extend this travel time. Delays can easily push the commute to 45 minutes or even longer, adding stress and potential hardship for patients undergoing treatment.

For more specialized care, residents often need to travel to Ellsworth, approximately 25 miles away. This journey necessitates utilizing Route 198 to Route 3, then Route 1A. The drive, typically taking around 40 to 50 minutes, provides access to larger hospitals and specialist practices. The condition of these roads, particularly during the winter months, can further complicate travel, posing additional challenges for those with mobility issues or compromised immune systems.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Seal Harbor are limited. The Island Explorer bus system, operated by Downeast Transportation, offers seasonal service throughout Mount Desert Island and connects to Bar Harbor and other surrounding towns. However, the service is primarily geared towards tourists and operates on a limited schedule, particularly during the off-season.

The Island Explorer's routes that serve Seal Harbor include Route 5, which connects to Bar Harbor, and Route 6, which offers connections to Southwest Harbor and Bass Harbor. While these routes provide a transportation lifeline, they may not be ideal for patients requiring frequent medical appointments. The schedules may not align with appointment times, and the need for transfers can add to travel time and physical strain.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor. The Island Explorer buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the system for patients with mobility limitations should be carefully considered.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bar Harbor area, but their presence in Seal Harbor is less consistent. Availability can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing can be expensive and unreliable, making it a less-than-ideal solution for regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve pre-scheduled rides to and from medical appointments.

Some of the medical transport providers that serve the area include Acadia Ambulance, and others that may be available through insurance networks. These services are essential for patients who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects. However, availability and cost can vary, and patients should investigate the options available to them before they need them.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Seal Harbor, Maine (ZIP Code 04675) reflects a mixed picture of healthcare access. While the natural beauty and tranquility of the area are undeniable, the transportation challenges associated with accessing medical care are significant.

Drive times to the nearest medical facilities are reasonable under normal conditions, but congestion during peak tourist season and adverse weather conditions can substantially increase travel times. Public transportation options are limited and may not be suitable for all patients. Ride-sharing services are available but may not be consistently reliable. Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline, but their availability and cost should be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to Seal Harbor, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other serious health conditions, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic delays, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial for ensuring access to timely and comprehensive care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about the availability of medical facilities; it is also about the ability to reach them. For residents of Seal Harbor, navigating the transportation landscape is an integral part of their journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This is a crucial consideration for anyone planning a move to this beautiful corner of Maine.