04274, Poland, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04274, Poland, Maine is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.20 percent of residents in 04274 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Central Maine Medical Center with a distance of 9.32 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 04274

Understanding the landscape of healthcare access is crucial, especially when facing a health concern like prostate cancer. This write-up delves into the transportation options available to residents of ZIP Code 04274, offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment based on factors that impact healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing options, painting a picture of the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical appointments. It's a critical consideration, particularly for those considering a move, perhaps even **moving to Poland**, and seeking a community that prioritizes healthcare accessibility.

ZIP Code 04274 encompasses Poland, Maine, a primarily rural area. The geography significantly influences transportation choices. The availability of diverse transportation options directly impacts the ability to receive timely diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up care. This is particularly important for individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer, where early detection and consistent care are paramount. The "Prostate Cancer Score" aims to provide a practical understanding of the challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic area.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in and out of Poland are Route 26 and Route 11. Route 26, a two-lane highway, connects Poland to Lewiston and Auburn, the nearest urban centers offering comprehensive medical facilities. Route 11 provides access to neighboring towns and further connects to the state's highway system. The drive to Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston, a major healthcare provider, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the "Prostate Cancer Score," indicating reasonable access to specialized care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge for those without access to a car or those unable to drive.

The drive to St. Mary's Regional Medical Center, also in Lewiston, mirrors the CMMC drive time, offering similar accessibility advantages. Both facilities provide urology departments and oncology services, critical for prostate cancer patients. Further afield, the drive to Maine Medical Center in Portland, a tertiary care center, can take up to an hour, especially during peak commuting hours. This longer drive time negatively impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score," highlighting the potential for delayed access to specialized treatments or consultations.

Public transportation options in Poland are limited. The Greater Portland Metro, while serving the Portland area, does not extend its services to Poland. The local transit options are primarily provided by Androscoggin Transportation System (ATS). ATS offers demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service, while available, is not a readily accessible, on-demand system. This significantly reduces the "Prostate Cancer Score," particularly for individuals requiring frequent appointments or facing mobility challenges. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, a crucial consideration for those with disabilities. However, the need for pre-booking and the limited service area present significant barriers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, though their availability can fluctuate. Ride-share availability is often dependent on driver density and demand. In a rural area like Poland, wait times can be extended, and the reliability of these services is less certain than in urban centers. This variable availability slightly impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score," making it a less dependable option for time-sensitive medical needs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. These services, such as Careline and various private ambulance companies, specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. They often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues. While these services enhance the "Prostate Cancer Score" by providing a reliable transportation option, they can be costly, which could be a financial burden for some patients.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 04274, considering these factors, is moderate. The relatively short drive times to Lewiston and Auburn hospitals offer a significant advantage. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transportation services mitigates some of these challenges, but the cost factor must be considered. Individuals considering a move to this area, or those already residing there, should carefully assess their transportation needs and resources. This is especially important for those with pre-existing health conditions, like prostate cancer, where consistent access to care is paramount.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" suggests that while healthcare access is available, it requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the cost of medical transportation services highlight the need for individuals to proactively address their transportation needs. This is particularly important for those considering **moving to Poland** and prioritizing healthcare access. Researching the availability of transportation assistance programs, exploring options for carpooling, and understanding the local healthcare landscape are essential steps in ensuring seamless access to care.

The availability of healthcare services within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor in the overall well-being of any community. For individuals battling prostate cancer, this access becomes even more critical. The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a practical tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities within ZIP Code 04274, empowering residents to navigate the healthcare system effectively. It underscores the importance of planning and proactive engagement to ensure timely and consistent access to the care they need.