04475, Passadumkeag, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04475, Passadumkeag, Maine is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.55 percent of residents in 04475 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penobscot Valley Hospital with a distance of 12.38 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04475 (Passadumkeag, Maine)**

The sun rises over the Penobscot River, casting a golden hue across the small town of Passadumkeag, Maine, ZIP code 04475. Nestled in the heart of Penobscot County, this community enjoys a tranquil existence, yet the specter of healthcare access, particularly for a disease like prostate cancer, looms large. This write-up delves into the realities of **transportation** options and their impact on accessing vital medical care, offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment for residents of Passadumkeag. For those considering **moving to Passadumkeag**, understanding these factors is crucial.

The primary concern revolves around **healthcare access**, specifically the availability of specialized oncology services. While Passadumkeag boasts a strong sense of community, the nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Bangor, approximately 25 miles to the south. This distance, while seemingly manageable, becomes a significant hurdle when compounded by the complexities of cancer treatment, frequent appointments, and the potential for debilitating side effects.

The most common mode of **transportation** for residents is personal vehicles. The primary route to Bangor involves navigating Route 16, a winding road that snakes its way through the Maine landscape. From Route 16, travelers typically connect to Interstate 95 (I-95) south, a major artery leading directly to Bangor. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes approximately 35-45 minutes. However, this estimate is subject to change.

During the harsh Maine winters, snow and ice can transform this journey into a perilous undertaking. Delays are common, and the risk of accidents increases dramatically. The drive time extends, adding stress and anxiety to an already challenging situation. Moreover, the cost of fuel and vehicle maintenance further burden individuals and families.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Passadumkeag. The Bangor Area Transit (BAT) system does not directly service the town. Therefore, relying on public transit for regular oncology appointments is, for all practical purposes, impossible. This lack of accessible and affordable public **transportation** creates a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive, do not own a vehicle, or are unable to maintain their vehicles due to physical limitations.

For those seeking alternatives, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Bangor area, but their presence in Passadumkeag is less consistent. Availability may be limited, and the cost of a ride-share to Bangor can be substantial, particularly for frequent appointments. This financial burden can be a major deterrent for individuals with limited incomes or those struggling with the financial strain of cancer treatment.

Medical **transportation** services offer another avenue, but their availability and scope vary. Companies like Acadian Ambulance and LifeFlight of Maine specialize in medical transport. However, these services are often reserved for emergencies or patients requiring specialized care, and they can be costly. The eligibility criteria and associated expenses must be considered.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Passadumkeag reflects these realities. The score considers factors such as drive time, the availability of public **transportation**, the cost of **transportation**, and the accessibility of specialized medical services. Given the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential financial burdens, the score for Passadumkeag would be moderate, with areas for improvement.

**ADA Features:** The lack of readily available public **transportation** with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features poses a significant challenge. Individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring wheelchair accessibility face considerable difficulty in accessing medical care. The absence of reliable and accessible public transit exacerbates the existing **healthcare access** challenges.

The impact of these **transportation** limitations extends beyond the practicalities of getting to appointments. It can affect a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The stress of arranging **transportation**, the financial strain, and the isolation that can result from limited mobility can negatively impact a patient's treatment outcomes.

**Ride-Share and Medical-Transport Brands:** While Uber and Lyft are available in the Bangor area, their presence in Passadumkeag is less frequent, and their reliability cannot be guaranteed. Medical transport services, such as Acadian Ambulance and LifeFlight of Maine, are available, but their use is typically reserved for emergencies or specific medical needs. The cost of these services can be prohibitive for routine appointments.

For individuals **moving to Passadumkeag**, a thorough assessment of these **transportation** and **healthcare access** factors is essential. Prospective residents should consider their ability to drive, the availability of reliable vehicles, and the financial implications of frequent trips to Bangor. They should also research local support services and community resources that can assist with **transportation** needs.

The town of Passadumkeag, while offering a peaceful and close-knit community, must address the **transportation** challenges to ensure equitable **healthcare access** for all its residents. This could involve exploring partnerships with the Bangor Area Transit, advocating for increased ride-sharing services, or supporting initiatives that provide **transportation** assistance to those in need.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is not merely about the availability of medical professionals; it is also about the ability to reach them. In Passadumkeag, the journey to healthcare can be a significant challenge, and addressing these **transportation** barriers is critical to improving the quality of life for all residents, especially those battling prostate cancer.