04676, Sedgwick, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04676, Sedgwick, Maine is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.33 percent of residents in 04676 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Blue Hill Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.37 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sedgwick, Maine (ZIP Code 04676)

The crisp salt air and breathtaking coastal views of Sedgwick, Maine, offer a compelling reason to consider a move. Yet, before packing your bags, prospective residents, especially those with a history of smoking or other risk factors for lung cancer, must honestly assess their **healthcare access**. This report provides a “Lung Cancer Score” for ZIP Code 04676, evaluating **transportation** options to facilitate early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of this serious disease. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, all crucial elements in ensuring timely and appropriate care.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score rests on proximity to comprehensive medical facilities. In Sedgwick, residents rely on facilities located outside the immediate area. The closest hospital equipped to handle lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment is Northern Light Blue Hill Hospital, approximately 15 miles away. This relatively short distance is a significant advantage compared to more remote areas. However, the drive time is highly variable, depending on the season and the specific route taken.

The primary route to Blue Hill Hospital is via Maine State Route 172, a scenic but often winding road. During peak tourist season, this route can become congested, especially on weekends. Expect drive times to fluctuate between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Another option involves taking Route 175 to Route 172, adding a few minutes to the overall journey. This route provides a slightly straighter path, potentially offering a marginally faster alternative during periods of heavy traffic on Route 172.

Further specialized care, including advanced oncology services, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals in Bangor, approximately 50 miles away. This journey is significantly more time-consuming. The most direct route involves taking Route 172 to Route 1, then onto Interstate 395. Expect a drive time of approximately one hour and 15 minutes under ideal conditions. However, winter weather, particularly snow and ice, can drastically increase travel times and pose considerable risks. Delays of up to two hours are not uncommon during severe storms.

Public **transportation** options in Sedgwick are limited. Hancock CountyHancock County Transit offers a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. While this service is available within the county, its coverage is not comprehensive, and it may not be suitable for urgent medical appointments. Furthermore, the frequency of service is limited, potentially causing delays in accessing care. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility challenges, and this information should be confirmed directly with Hancock County Transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bangor area but are unreliable in Sedgwick. The availability of drivers is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is therefore risky, and residents should not consider it a primary **transportation** option. The lack of readily available ride-sharing significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available in the region. Companies like LifeFlight of Maine provide air ambulance services for emergency situations, while other providers offer non-emergency medical **transportation** to scheduled appointments. These services, while valuable, come at a cost, and insurance coverage varies. The availability of these services contributes positively to the Lung Cancer Score, but their cost and limitations must be considered.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of preventative care. Regular lung cancer screenings, particularly for individuals with a history of smoking, are essential for early detection. The proximity to Blue Hill Hospital, offering screening services, is a positive factor. However, the need to travel to Bangor for more specialized care adds complexity to the score.

The ability to access early diagnosis is equally important. The availability of diagnostic tools, such as CT scans and bronchoscopies, at Blue Hill Hospital is a significant advantage. However, if a diagnosis requires specialized procedures or treatments, patients may need to travel to Bangor or other larger medical centers, impacting the overall **healthcare access**.

The Lung Cancer Score is also affected by the availability of support services. Access to oncology specialists, support groups, and palliative care is crucial for patients undergoing treatment. The availability of these services at both Blue Hill Hospital and the larger hospitals in Bangor is a significant positive.

The **healthcare access** situation in Sedgwick, while not ideal, is better than in many more remote areas. The proximity to Blue Hill Hospital for basic care and screening is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on longer travel times to Bangor for specialized treatment and the limited public **transportation** options are significant drawbacks.

The Lung Cancer Score for Sedgwick, Maine (ZIP Code 04676) is, therefore, moderate. While the availability of medical facilities and services is present, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for long travel times, especially during inclement weather, presents challenges. Prospective residents with a history of smoking or other lung cancer risk factors should carefully consider these factors when deciding whether **moving to Sedgwick** is the right choice. They should also proactively investigate medical **transportation** options and ensure they have a reliable plan for accessing care.

The Lung Cancer Score can be improved by several factors. Expanding public **transportation** options, particularly those that are ADA-compliant, would significantly improve access to care. Increasing the availability of ride-sharing services would also be beneficial. Furthermore, initiatives to improve road conditions, particularly during winter months, would reduce travel times and enhance safety.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic assessment. It is influenced by individual circumstances, including health history, insurance coverage, and access to a personal vehicle. Prospective residents should conduct thorough research, consult with their physicians, and develop a comprehensive plan for accessing **healthcare access** before making a decision about **moving to Sedgwick**. The beauty and tranquility of Sedgwick should not come at the expense of one’s health.