04451, Kingman, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04451, Kingman, Maine is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

19.51 percent of residents in 04451 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penobscot Valley Hospital with a distance of 21.28 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04451**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as prostate cancer, is a critical aspect of well-being. This analysis explores the transportation landscape for residents of ZIP Code 04451, focusing on access to prostate cancer specialists and treatment facilities. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching these vital services is crucial for anyone considering moving to Kingman or residing within this area. We'll assess drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

ZIP Code 04451 encompasses the town of Howland, Maine, a rural community. This geographic context heavily influences transportation options. The primary mode of travel is personal vehicle. The major thoroughfare is Interstate 95, which provides a direct route to Bangor, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities.

The drive to Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC), a major healthcare provider in Bangor, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour via I-95. This time can fluctuate depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. The route is straightforward, generally a smooth, well-maintained highway. The access is uncomplicated, making it a relatively manageable commute for those seeking specialized care.

Another option is Northern Light Cancer Care in Bangor. This facility offers specialized prostate cancer treatment. The drive time is similar to EMMC, averaging between 45 minutes and an hour via I-95. The ease of access and proximity to I-95 make this facility a viable option for residents of 04451.

Local roads such as Route 2 and Route 16 are alternatives, but these routes are less direct and can significantly increase travel time, especially during winter months. These roads often have lower speed limits and may experience more traffic congestion. The overall reliability of these roads is less consistent than I-95, making them less desirable for urgent medical appointments.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. Penobscot Valley Transportation (PVT) offers bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve the medical facilities in Bangor. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility challenges. While PVT strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency and route coverage can pose significant challenges for those needing regular medical appointments.

The ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bangor area, but their presence in Howland (04451) is less consistent. Availability may be limited, and wait times can be extended, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments. The reliability of these services is less certain than personal vehicle transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare facilities, offer door-to-door transportation. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs. The availability of these services can vary, and it's essential to investigate their coverage and scheduling capabilities.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access is significant. For prostate cancer patients, regular appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care are essential. The commute time, availability of transportation, and associated costs can affect patient adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life. The ability to reach healthcare facilities promptly and reliably is a fundamental aspect of effective care.

For individuals considering moving to Kingman or residing in 04451, understanding the transportation landscape is critical. The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of car ownership. The limited public transportation options and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning for medical appointments.

The Prostate Cancer Score for 04451, considering the transportation factors, is moderate. While the drive to Bangor via I-95 is relatively straightforward, the lack of robust public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical transportation services can mitigate some of these challenges, but careful planning and preparation are essential.

The healthcare access in 04451 is influenced by the transportation options. The proximity to Bangor and the presence of specialized medical facilities are positive factors. However, the rural setting and limited public transportation options pose challenges. For prostate cancer patients, this means careful consideration of transportation logistics, potentially including car ownership, reliance on family or friends, or utilizing medical transportation services.

The overall assessment emphasizes the need for proactive planning. Individuals in 04451, especially those undergoing prostate cancer treatment, should familiarize themselves with available transportation options, including drive times, public transit schedules, and ride-sharing availability. They should also investigate medical transportation services and establish a reliable plan for attending medical appointments.

The future of healthcare access in 04451 could be enhanced by increased public transportation options. More frequent bus routes, improved ADA accessibility, and expansion of ride-sharing services would significantly improve the Prostate Cancer Score. These improvements would make healthcare more accessible and reduce the burden on patients.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in 04451 presents both opportunities and challenges for accessing prostate cancer care. The relatively easy access to Bangor via I-95 is a positive factor. However, the limited public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services require careful planning and consideration. For anyone considering moving to Kingman, a thorough understanding of these transportation factors is crucial for ensuring access to timely and effective healthcare. The Prostate Cancer Score for this area reflects the need for proactive planning and the potential for improvement through expanded transportation options.