04253, Livermore, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04253, Livermore, Maine is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.79 percent of residents in 04253 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.21 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Livermore, Maine (ZIP Code 04253)**

The prostate cancer score for Livermore, Maine (ZIP code 04253) reflects the challenges and opportunities residents face when accessing healthcare, specifically for prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This score considers the crucial element of transportation, a significant factor impacting healthcare access in this rural community. The ability to reach medical facilities efficiently and reliably is paramount, particularly for a disease requiring regular check-ups and potentially complex treatments.

Livermore, nestled in Androscoggin County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The town's relatively small population and rural setting mean residents often rely on travel to larger towns and cities for specialized medical services. This reliance on transportation is a critical element in understanding the prostate cancer score for this area.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads to Care**

The primary mode of transportation for most Livermore residents seeking healthcare is personal vehicles. The drive times to key medical facilities significantly influence the prostate cancer score. The nearest hospital with comprehensive cancer care is Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston. The journey to CMMC typically involves navigating Maine Route 4 and then Route 196, a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

For more specialized services, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to Maine Medical Center in Portland. This trip involves a longer drive, typically taking between 45 minutes to an hour and 15 minutes, primarily via the Maine Turnpike (I-95) and then utilizing local roads to reach the hospital. This extended travel time can pose a significant burden, particularly for elderly patients or those experiencing debilitating symptoms.

The availability of alternative routes is limited. Route 4 provides a direct connection to Lewiston, but it can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The Maine Turnpike offers a faster route to Portland, but tolls add to the cost of healthcare access. The prostate cancer score must account for these travel time variations and the associated costs.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Livermore are limited, presenting a significant challenge for residents without personal vehicles. The Greater Portland Metro provides some regional bus services, but these routes typically don't extend directly into Livermore. This means residents would likely need to travel to a major hub, such as Lewiston or Auburn, to access the Metro system.

The availability of ADA-accessible public transit is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. While the Metro system strives to provide accessible services, the frequency and coverage of routes in this rural area can be inadequate. The prostate cancer score must reflect the limited accessibility of public transit for those who need it most.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lewiston-Auburn area and may provide a transportation alternative. However, the availability of these services in Livermore itself can be inconsistent, and the cost of a ride-share to Portland for specialized care could be prohibitive for some patients. The prostate cancer score needs to consider the variable reliability and expense of ride-sharing.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available. These services can be particularly helpful for patients who are unable to drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and availability may be limited, especially for appointments scheduled on short notice.

**Healthcare Access: The Score's Reflection**

The prostate cancer score for Livermore, Maine, reflects the challenges of healthcare access related to transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to the overall score. This score is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of residents seeking care.

The score is impacted by the travel times to medical facilities, the financial burden of transportation costs, and the physical challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for those with mobility limitations. The score highlights the need for strategies to improve healthcare access in Livermore, such as promoting ride-sharing programs, expanding public transit options, and exploring the use of telehealth services.

**Moving to Livermore: Healthcare Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Livermore, understanding the prostate cancer score is essential. It is vital to consider the transportation challenges and the potential impact on healthcare access. Prospective residents should evaluate their transportation needs, assess the availability of reliable transportation options, and factor in the potential costs associated with travel to medical appointments.

The prostate cancer score serves as a crucial tool for individuals, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It allows for a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities in healthcare access, ultimately driving improvements in the health and well-being of the community. The score is not just a statistic; it is a call to action, urging us to work together to ensure that all residents of Livermore have equitable access to the healthcare they need.