04774, Saint Francis, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04774, Saint Francis, Maine is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.00 percent of residents in 04774 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 35.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Maine Medical Center with a distance of 20.47 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 04774

This analysis evaluates healthcare access for individuals residing in ZIP Code 04774, a critical factor in managing lung cancer. We’ll examine the practicalities of **transportation** to medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative methods, ultimately contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can access vital care. This is especially relevant for anyone **moving to Saint Francis**, a community within this ZIP code, as their health needs become a priority.

The cornerstone of lung cancer treatment is timely and consistent access to specialists, diagnostic tools, and therapies. Delays in care significantly impact prognosis and quality of life. Therefore, understanding the **healthcare access** landscape within 04774 is paramount.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary challenge in 04774 is its rural nature. The closest major medical centers are located in Presque Isle, approximately 20-30 minutes away, or in Caribou, a similar distance. The primary routes are Route 1, a north-south thoroughfare, and Route 161, which connects Saint Francis to the wider region.

Travel times, however, are highly variable. Winter weather, common in this region, can dramatically increase drive times due to snow and ice. Even a routine trip can become treacherous, potentially delaying or preventing critical appointments. The condition of secondary roads, especially in Saint Francis, can further exacerbate these challenges.

The availability of multiple routes, even if they involve secondary roads, provides some resilience. However, the overall reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle reliability and the financial burden of car ownership, especially for those managing a serious illness.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options within 04774 are limited. Aroostook Regional Transportation System (ARTS) provides some service within Aroostook County, but the frequency and routes are not designed for frequent medical appointments. Information regarding specific routes and ADA accessibility is difficult to find.

ARTS may offer limited demand-response services, requiring advance booking, but this is not a reliable solution for urgent needs or regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals without access to a personal vehicle or those unable to drive.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are virtually non-existent in 04774. The sparse population and geographic isolation make it economically unviable for these companies to operate. This leaves residents dependent on other alternatives.

Medical transport services are available, but their availability and cost vary. Local ambulance services can transport patients to hospitals, but this is primarily for emergency situations. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, such as those specializing in long-distance travel, may be an option, but they often require prior authorization and can be expensive.

Companies like MedRide or similar regional providers are likely to be the primary options. These services often involve scheduling well in advance, which can be problematic for unexpected medical needs. The availability of these services also fluctuates, impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and its Implications:**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options, the Lung Cancer Score for 04774 reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the scarcity of ride-sharing services create significant challenges.

The score is negatively impacted by the following factors: the potential for weather-related delays, the financial burden of car ownership, the lack of reliable public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing. The score is positively influenced by the proximity to medical facilities in Presque Isle and Caribou, and the potential availability of medical transport services.

For an individual considering **moving to Saint Francis**, the Lung Cancer Score should be a crucial consideration. Those with existing lung cancer or at high risk must carefully evaluate their ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape to access necessary medical care.

The score highlights the need for proactive planning, including: establishing reliable **transportation** arrangements, exploring medical transport options, and considering the impact of weather conditions. The community could benefit from initiatives that enhance **healthcare access**, such as expanded public transit, subsidized medical transport, or partnerships with local volunteer organizations to provide rides.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 04774 reflects the complex interplay between geography, **transportation**, and **healthcare access**. While medical care is within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations in public transit, ride-sharing, and the potential for weather-related delays create significant challenges for individuals managing lung cancer.

Individuals considering **moving to Saint Francis** or residing in 04774 must be prepared to navigate these challenges proactively. Improving **healthcare access** through expanded **transportation** options and community support is crucial for enhancing the quality of life and improving outcomes for those battling lung cancer in this rural community.