Prostate Cancer Score

04292, Sumner, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 04292, Sumner, Maine

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04292, Sumner, Maine is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.15 percent of residents in 04292 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stephens Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.24 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 04292, Sumner, Maine

Prostate Cancer Score 26
People Score 34
Provider Score 28
Hospital Score 59
Travel Score 36

Closest Hospital - STEPHENS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 04292 Sumner Maine
No Cars 0.00 0.00 2.13
1 Car 9.48 9.48 18.39
2 Cars 49.88 49.88 45.49
3 or More Cars 40.65 40.65 34.00

Vehicular Access in 04292, Sumner, Maine

Travel Score Review of 04292, Sumner, Maine

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04292

The tranquil town of Sumner, Maine, nestled in the heart of Oxford County, offers a unique blend of rural charm and close-knit community. For those considering a move to this picturesque locale, understanding the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for a condition like prostate cancer, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 04292, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a medical assessment but a metric reflecting the ease with which residents can access prostate cancer-related healthcare services, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up appointments. It considers factors like travel time, transportation availability, and the presence of specialized medical facilities. A higher score indicates better access.

**Navigating the Landscape: Highways and Roads**

The primary arteries serving Sumner are Route 2 and Route 140. Route 2, a major east-west thoroughfare, connects Sumner to larger towns like Rumford to the west and Buckfield to the east. Route 140 provides a north-south connection, linking Sumner to the more populated areas around Canton and Livermore. Driving times to healthcare facilities are crucial, especially for patients undergoing treatment requiring frequent visits.

For prostate cancer care, the closest comprehensive medical centers are in Lewiston, approximately 30 miles south. Driving to Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) via Route 140 and Route 4 typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. St. Mary's Regional Medical Center, also in Lewiston, is accessible via similar routes, offering comparable drive times. These times can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, particularly during periods of fatigue or discomfort.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in the region are limited. The Greater Portland Metro, while serving the Portland area, doesn’t extend to Sumner. The Androscoggin Transportation System (ATS) offers some services within Androscoggin County, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater to the specific needs of cancer patients. Services are not frequently available to Sumner, and the routes are limited.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration for public transit. While ATS buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts, the infrequent service and lengthy travel times make them a less-than-ideal option for many patients. The lack of direct routes to specialized cancer centers further complicates the issue. This limited public transit availability significantly lowers the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Sumner residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Potential Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering a more flexible transportation alternative. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides to and from Lewiston can also become a significant financial burden for patients.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, provide a more tailored solution. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with mobility challenges. However, their availability and cost vary, and they may require advance booking. Researching these options is crucial for anyone considering moving to Sumner and requiring regular medical appointments.

**The Impact of Distance: Healthcare Access and Quality of Life**

The distance to specialized cancer centers in Lewiston directly impacts healthcare access. Frequent appointments for radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or follow-up visits can be physically and emotionally draining. Long travel times can exacerbate fatigue, anxiety, and other side effects of treatment. Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, may be limited in Sumner compared to larger urban centers.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers these factors. A lower score might indicate a need for increased community support, such as volunteer driver programs or partnerships with medical transportation providers. It also underscores the importance of exploring telehealth options for consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Moving to Sumner: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Sumner offers the benefits of a close-knit community and a slower pace of life. However, prospective residents, especially those with existing health concerns or a family history of prostate cancer, must carefully evaluate the healthcare access. The "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of transportation planning.

Consider factors such as the availability of reliable transportation, the potential cost of travel, and the proximity of specialized cancer care facilities. Researching local resources, such as support groups and medical transportation services, is essential.

**Improving the Score: Community Initiatives and Future Considerations**

Improving the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Sumner requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit options, particularly routes to Lewiston, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and establishing local support groups can help mitigate the challenges of distance. Community initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs, can provide invaluable assistance to patients. As Sumner evolves, future planning should prioritize healthcare access, ensuring that residents have convenient and affordable transportation to the care they need.

In conclusion, while Sumner offers a desirable lifestyle, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 04292 reflects the challenges associated with accessing specialized healthcare. Careful planning and exploration of available transportation options are essential for anyone considering a move to this charming Maine town, especially those with prostate cancer or at risk. The ongoing development of community resources and infrastructure will play a crucial role in improving the score and ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they deserve.

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Health Scores Near 04292, Sumner, Maine

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Health Scores in 04292, Sumner, Maine