04079, Harpswell, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04079, Harpswell, Maine is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.74 percent of residents in 04079 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mid Coast Hospital with a distance of 8.15 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Harpswell (04079)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, is complex. This analysis focuses on prostate cancer care options for residents of Harpswell, Maine (ZIP code 04079), evaluating transportation logistics to determine a “Prostate Cancer Score.” This score, while subjective, offers a glimpse into the ease and potential challenges of accessing necessary medical services, a critical factor for anyone contemplating moving to this coastal community.

Harpswell, a town of peninsulas and islands, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary artery in and out is Route 123, a winding road that connects the various islands and mainland sections. Route 123 then intersects with Route 1, a major north-south thoroughfare. These are the lifelines for residents, and the commute to healthcare often depends on them.

The nearest significant healthcare facilities are in Brunswick and Portland. The Mid Coast Hospital in Brunswick, approximately 15-20 miles from most parts of Harpswell, is the closest major hospital. The drive typically takes 20-40 minutes, depending on the specific location within Harpswell and traffic conditions. Route 123 to Route 1 is the most direct route, but traffic can be heavy during peak hours, especially in the summer months.

Portland, with its more specialized medical centers like Maine Medical Center and Mercy Hospital, offers a wider range of prostate cancer treatment options. However, the commute is significantly longer, roughly 35-55 miles, translating to a 45-75 minute drive. This journey involves navigating Route 123 to Route 1, then onto I-295, a major interstate.

Public transportation options are limited in Harpswell. The Greater Portland METRO provides some bus service, but it is not extensive in this area. Route 9, the Brunswick-Portland route, does offer some service along Route 1. However, the frequency is limited, and the travel time to Portland is significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, the availability of accessible public transportation for individuals with mobility issues is a crucial consideration. METRO buses are ADA-compliant, but the long travel times and infrequent service make them less practical for regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often influenced by the time of day and demand. In a rural area like Harpswell, wait times can be longer, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs. These factors impact the overall healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies or non-profit organizations, may be an option for those who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. These services often cater to individuals with medical needs, providing door-to-door transportation. However, availability and cost vary, and it's essential to research and pre-arrange these services.

The Prostate Cancer Score considers several factors. First, the distance and travel time to the nearest healthcare facilities, specifically those offering prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Second, the reliability and accessibility of transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation. Third, the cost associated with transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation costs.

For residents of Harpswell, the score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles. The drive times to Brunswick and Portland are manageable for routine check-ups, but the longer commute to Portland for specialized care could be a significant factor. The limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

The availability of medical transportation services can improve the score, but the cost and availability must be considered. The score would be negatively impacted by the lack of readily available transportation, especially for those without a personal vehicle or those with mobility limitations.

Moving to Harpswell, therefore, requires careful consideration of transportation needs and healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the relative isolation presents challenges when accessing specialized medical care. Prospective residents, particularly those with existing health concerns, must thoroughly research transportation options and healthcare providers to ensure their needs are met.

The Prostate Cancer Score for Harpswell, therefore, is moderate. While access to basic care is available in Brunswick, specialized treatments in Portland require longer travel times and reliance on personal vehicles. The limited public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further impact the score. The availability of medical transportation services can improve the score, but the cost and availability must be considered.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Harpswell is a personal one. However, understanding the transportation logistics and healthcare access is crucial for making an informed choice. This analysis provides a starting point for assessing the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing prostate cancer care in this beautiful coastal community. Residents need to proactively plan for their healthcare needs, considering the potential impact of transportation limitations on their well-being.