04088, Waterford, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04088, Waterford, Maine is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.63 percent of residents in 04088 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stephens Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.20 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04088 (Waterford, ME)

The quaint town of Waterford, Maine, nestled in the western foothills, offers a serene escape. But for men considering a move to this idyllic locale, particularly those concerned about prostate health, a critical factor emerges: **healthcare access**. This write-up assesses the prostate cancer "score" for ZIP code 04088, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities equipped for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

The prostate cancer score, in this context, isn't a clinical metric, but rather an evaluation of the ease and efficiency of accessing necessary medical services. It considers the availability of transportation, the proximity of healthcare providers, and the overall feasibility of navigating the journey from Waterford to specialized medical care. This is particularly important for individuals facing potential prostate cancer diagnoses, requiring regular check-ups, or undergoing treatment.

**Driving Directions and Time Considerations**

For residents of Waterford, the primary mode of transportation to specialized medical care is likely by car. The closest significant medical centers are located in the larger towns and cities surrounding Waterford. The drive times, of course, will fluctuate with traffic and weather conditions, but generally, a journey will involve navigating state routes and potentially some interstate travel.

For example, a trip to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, a hospital with advanced urology services, entails a drive of approximately 40-50 miles. The most direct route typically involves taking Route 35 south, which then connects to Route 26. From there, you'll head towards the Maine Turnpike (I-95). Exiting at the Lewiston/Auburn exit will provide access to the medical center.

Another option is Maine Medical Center in Portland, which is further away, about 60-70 miles. The drive to Portland would involve taking Route 35 south to Route 302, a major thoroughfare that can become congested, especially during peak travel times. Route 302 eventually leads to the Maine Turnpike (I-95) south, offering a faster, but toll-based, route to Portland. The drive time can vary significantly based on traffic, potentially exceeding an hour and a half during rush hour.

The drive to Androscoggin Valley Urology in Lewiston is a more direct route for urology specific care. Driving south on Route 35, then east on Route 202 will provide access to the practice. The drive is approximately 40 miles and takes about 50 minutes.

These estimates highlight the importance of considering travel time when assessing **healthcare access**. For individuals undergoing treatment, frequent trips for appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy can be physically and emotionally taxing. The longer the commute, the more challenging the treatment journey can become.

**Public Transportation Challenges**

Public transportation options in rural Maine, including Waterford, are limited. There is no established bus system that directly serves Waterford. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts the prostate cancer score, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. Individuals who are elderly, have mobility issues, or do not own a vehicle are disproportionately affected by this lack of **transportation** options.

For residents needing to get to a medical appointment, the absence of reliable public **transportation** necessitates reliance on alternative methods. This can include arranging for rides from family, friends, or neighbors. However, these options may not always be available or convenient.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

While public transportation is scarce, it is important to consider the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the limited options that may exist. For individuals with mobility limitations, the availability of accessible vehicles and routes is crucial. Even if a public transportation option exists, its usefulness is significantly diminished if it does not meet ADA standards.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in some parts of Maine, but their presence in rural areas like Waterford is less consistent. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments unreliable.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another option. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking. Companies like LifeFlight of Maine provide medical transport, but typically for emergencies. Other medical transport companies may serve the area, but their availability and cost should be carefully investigated.

**Impact on Moving to Waterford**

For individuals considering **moving to Waterford**, the prostate cancer score should be a key consideration. The limited **transportation** options and the distance to specialized medical care can present significant challenges. Potential residents with a history of prostate cancer or those at higher risk should carefully evaluate their ability to access necessary medical services.

The availability of support systems, such as family and friends who can provide transportation, is also crucial. Individuals should also research the availability and cost of medical transport services in the area.

**Conclusion**

The prostate cancer score for ZIP code 04088 reflects the challenges of accessing specialized medical care in a rural environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public **transportation**, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. While Waterford offers a peaceful and desirable lifestyle, individuals with prostate health concerns should carefully weigh the **healthcare access** challenges when making their **moving to Waterford** decision. Careful planning, research, and consideration of available **transportation** options are essential for ensuring timely and convenient access to the necessary medical care.