04920, Bingham, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04920, Bingham, Maine is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.52 percent of residents in 04920 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Redington Fairview General Hospital with a distance of 23.24 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 04920

The air in Bingham, Maine (ZIP Code 04920) whispers of rugged beauty and the quiet rhythms of rural life. But when the shadow of lung cancer falls, the serenity can shatter. This write-up aims to illuminate the landscape of **transportation** and **healthcare access** for residents of 04920, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the challenges and opportunities in navigating treatment. It is crucial for those considering **moving to Bingham**, or for current residents seeking to understand their options.

Bingham, nestled in Somerset County, offers a limited local healthcare infrastructure. The nearest comprehensive cancer care is a drive away, making **transportation** a critical factor in timely diagnosis and treatment. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. The higher the score, the more accessible and convenient the options.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary route for accessing specialized medical care from Bingham is via US Route 201, a scenic but often winding highway. Driving to the nearest major medical center, such as Redington-Fairview General Hospital in Skowhegan, is roughly a 45-minute journey, assuming favorable traffic conditions. This drive becomes significantly longer during inclement weather, particularly in winter when snow and ice can make travel treacherous.

For more specialized care, patients often need to travel to larger hospitals in Augusta or Bangor. The drive to Augusta, primarily via US Route 201 and I-95, is approximately a 1.5-hour trip. Reaching Bangor, the home of Eastern Maine Medical Center, requires a drive of about 2 hours, again utilizing US Route 201 and I-95. These longer distances necessitate careful planning, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

The condition of the roadways is another consideration. While Maine's Department of Transportation works diligently to maintain the roads, potholes and uneven surfaces can exacerbate discomfort for patients undergoing treatment. Moreover, the lack of readily available rest stops along these routes can pose challenges for those experiencing fatigue or nausea.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public **transportation** options in 04920 are extremely limited. Somerset Explorer, the local public transit provider, offers routes that may reach Skowhegan, but these services are often infrequent and may not align with the specific needs of cancer patients. Furthermore, the accessibility of these routes for individuals with disabilities, including those undergoing treatment, must be carefully considered. While the Somerset Explorer vehicles are equipped with ADA features, such as wheelchair lifts, the scheduling and route availability may still pose significant hurdles.

The lack of reliable public transit underscores the importance of alternative **transportation** solutions for residents of Bingham. The absence of readily available public transit makes healthcare access a significant challenge for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Bingham and the surrounding rural areas. This absence leaves residents with limited options for on-demand **transportation**. However, the availability of medical **transportation** services offers a crucial lifeline.

Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the region, including LifeFlight of Maine, which offers air ambulance services for emergency situations. While air ambulance services are vital for critical care, they are not typically used for routine appointments. Ground medical **transportation** services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies or specialized medical **transportation** providers, are essential for transporting patients to and from appointments.

These services, while offering a valuable resource, can be costly and require advance booking. The availability of these services also depends on staffing and vehicle availability. The reliance on these services further emphasizes the importance of planning and coordination for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite View**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 04920 is a complex metric. It reflects the challenges of geographical isolation, limited **transportation** options, and the inherent complexities of navigating the healthcare system. The score is derived from a combination of factors, including drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing accessibility, and the presence of medical **transportation** services.

Given the limited resources and the long distances to specialized care, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 04920 is relatively low. The score highlights the need for proactive planning and the importance of seeking support from family, friends, and community resources.

**Considerations for Moving to Bingham**

For individuals considering **moving to Bingham**, the "Lung Cancer Score" should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. The lack of readily available healthcare and **transportation** options necessitates careful consideration. Prospective residents should research their healthcare needs, assess their ability to drive or secure **transportation**, and explore the availability of support services in the community.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape: A Call to Action**

The challenges of **healthcare access** in 04920 underscore the need for community support and proactive planning. Residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis should:

* **Establish a strong support network:** Rely on family, friends, and community members for assistance with **transportation**, appointments, and daily tasks.
* **Explore all **transportation** options:** Investigate medical **transportation** services, and explore the potential for carpooling or rides from friends and family.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments well in advance and factor in travel time, weather conditions, and potential delays.
* **Advocate for improved services:** Support initiatives aimed at expanding public transit options and improving healthcare access in rural areas.

The journey through lung cancer is arduous. Understanding the **transportation** and **healthcare access** landscape in 04920 is the first step toward navigating this challenging terrain. By acknowledging the obstacles and proactively seeking solutions, residents can improve their chances of receiving timely and effective care. This knowledge is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Bingham**, ensuring they are prepared for the realities of healthcare access in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, corner of Maine.