04252, Lisbon Falls, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04252, Lisbon Falls, Maine is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.17 percent of residents in 04252 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's Regional Medical Center with a distance of 9.24 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lisbon Falls, Maine (ZIP Code 04252)

The journey to quality healthcare, especially for a serious condition like prostate cancer, extends beyond the clinic doors. It encompasses the complexities of transportation, the availability of specialists, and the overall accessibility of care within a specific geographic area. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for residents of Lisbon Falls, Maine (ZIP Code 04252), considering the critical factors of transportation and healthcare access. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Lisbon Falls or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare landscape.

Lisbon Falls, a charming community nestled in the heart of Androscoggin County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to larger urban centers. However, the accessibility of specialized healthcare, particularly for prostate cancer, hinges on the efficiency and availability of transportation options. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers these factors, providing a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking prostate cancer care in this specific ZIP code.

**The Transportation Tapestry: Weaving Through the Landscape**

The primary mode of transportation in Lisbon Falls is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town's location necessitates reliance on roadways for accessing specialized medical services. Route 196, the main artery running through Lisbon Falls, provides a direct route to Lewiston and Brunswick, the two major hubs for healthcare in the region.

Driving times, however, are significantly impacted by traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination. For instance, a drive to Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 196. Brunswick, home to Mid Coast Hospital, is a slightly longer journey, requiring about 25-35 minutes via Route 196 and US Route 1. These estimates are based on average conditions and can vary considerably during peak hours or inclement weather.

Navigating these routes, especially for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations, can present significant challenges. The availability of alternative transportation options becomes paramount in such scenarios.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reach**

Public transportation in Lisbon Falls is limited, posing a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The Lewiston-Auburn Transit (L-A Transit) offers bus service in the region, but its routes and schedules may not directly serve all healthcare facilities or offer convenient connections for residents of Lisbon Falls. The L-A Transit system, however, does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The lack of extensive public transit options underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions for accessing specialized medical care. The reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods is particularly critical for individuals undergoing regular treatments, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lisbon Falls area, offering a potential solution for those unable to drive. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, and wait times may be longer compared to more densely populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as LifeFlight of Maine, provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including those for prostate cancer treatment. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required.

**Healthcare Access: The Critical Component**

The availability of specialized healthcare providers, including urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists, is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access for prostate cancer patients. While Lisbon Falls itself may not have these specialized services, the proximity to Lewiston and Brunswick provides access to a range of healthcare facilities.

CMMC in Lewiston and Mid Coast Hospital in Brunswick offer comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and supportive services. The presence of these facilities significantly enhances healthcare access for residents of Lisbon Falls. However, the travel time to these facilities remains a critical consideration.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lisbon Falls (ZIP Code 04252) is a multifaceted assessment, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to major healthcare facilities offering prostate cancer care.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability and convenience of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The presence and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Healthcare Provider Density:** The proximity and availability of specialized healthcare providers.

Based on these factors, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lisbon Falls reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the proximity to Lewiston and Brunswick provides access to specialized care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but the cost and availability of these services remain considerations.

**Moving to Lisbon Falls: A Transportation-Conscious Decision**

For individuals considering moving to Lisbon Falls, understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access is crucial. The decision should be informed by a careful assessment of personal transportation needs, the availability of support networks, and the ability to navigate the complexities of accessing specialized medical care. The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access in this charming Maine community.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Journey**

The journey to quality prostate cancer care in Lisbon Falls requires a strategic approach to transportation and healthcare access. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning. By understanding the available transportation options, the proximity to specialized healthcare providers, and the potential challenges, residents of Lisbon Falls can navigate the healthcare landscape with greater confidence and ensure timely access to the care they need. The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access extends beyond the clinic doors, encompassing the intricate web of transportation, resources, and support systems that shape the patient experience.