04922, Burnham, Maine Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04922, Burnham, Maine is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.00 percent of residents in 04922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Hospital with a distance of 7.73 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burnham, Maine (ZIP Code 04922)

The crisp air of Burnham, Maine (ZIP code 04922) whispers promises of tranquility, a respite from the relentless hustle. Yet, for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity can quickly transform into a logistical labyrinth. Healthcare access, particularly for specialized treatment, becomes paramount, demanding careful consideration of transportation options. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare from Burnham, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, crucial elements for anyone considering moving to this central Maine community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade but a qualitative assessment, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in accessing timely and appropriate care. It considers the realities of navigating the transportation landscape when facing a serious illness.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries to Care**

The primary arteries connecting Burnham to regional healthcare hubs are US Route 2 and Interstate 95. The drive to Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) in Bangor, a major regional hospital with oncology services, is approximately a 45-60 minute journey, depending on traffic and the specific location within Burnham. This drive primarily utilizes Route 2 east, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours.

The drive to Maine Medical Center (MMC) in Portland, a larger, more specialized facility, is a significantly longer commitment, ranging from 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes. This journey involves merging onto I-95 south, a major interstate highway, offering a generally smoother, albeit longer, ride. The variability in drive times underscores the importance of planning, especially when factoring in appointments, potential side effects from treatment, and the need for regular check-ups.

Smaller, local healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and urgent care clinics, are located within a 15-30 minute radius, primarily accessible via local roads. While these facilities can provide initial assessments and supportive care, specialized lung cancer treatment typically necessitates travel to larger hospitals.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Burnham are extremely limited. The Greater Portland Transit District (METRO) does not extend its services to Burnham. Local bus services are virtually nonexistent. This reliance on personal vehicles or other transportation methods presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a car or those unable to drive due to illness or treatment side effects.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a key consideration for any public transportation. Given the lack of public transit, this aspect is not directly relevant in Burnham. However, individuals relying on transportation assistance will need to ensure the chosen method is ADA-compliant, particularly for medical transport services.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can fluctuate, especially in a rural community like Burnham. Booking in advance is crucial, and wait times may be longer than in more urban areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services provide a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Several companies operate in the region, including:

* **CareRide:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Transit:** Provides a range of transportation services, including medical transport, often contracted by healthcare providers.
* **Ambulance services:** For emergency situations, emergency medical services are available to transport patients to the nearest hospital.

These services offer varying levels of assistance, from basic transportation to more comprehensive care, including attendant services. The cost of these services can vary considerably depending on the distance, level of care required, and insurance coverage.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Implications for Burnham**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Burnham reveals a mixed picture. While the community offers a peaceful environment, healthcare access presents significant challenges, particularly for those requiring specialized lung cancer treatment. The reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing options creates a vulnerability. The long drive times to major hospitals can be physically and emotionally taxing, especially for patients undergoing treatment.

For individuals considering moving to Burnham, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to support networks is essential. Proximity to family or friends who can provide transportation assistance is invaluable. Investigating the availability and cost of medical transportation services is also crucial.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective on Healthcare Access**

Burnham offers a quality of life that many find appealing. However, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of carefully evaluating healthcare access when considering a move or residing in this community. While the drive times to major hospitals are manageable, the lack of public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing require proactive planning. For individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, understanding these transportation challenges is paramount to ensuring timely and effective healthcare access. The decision to move to Burnham, or any rural community, should include a detailed assessment of healthcare access, ensuring the ability to navigate the transportation landscape and receive the care needed.