04611, Beals, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04611, Beals, Maine is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.00 percent of residents in 04611 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Down East Community Hospital with a distance of 15.54 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04611

The salty air of Beals, Maine (ZIP Code 04611), whispers promises of a simpler life, a slower pace. For those considering a move, particularly those with healthcare needs, understanding the realities of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up delves into the specifics of transportation options available to residents of 04611, focusing on prostate cancer care, offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" based on commute times and available resources.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical assessment, but rather a practical gauge of how easily one can access necessary care, considering the challenges of this rural environment. We'll evaluate transportation options, from driving to public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial elements in navigating the healthcare landscape.

Beals, a small island community, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary route off the island is via Route 187, a scenic but often winding road. This road connects to Route 191, the main artery leading towards larger towns and healthcare facilities. These roads are your lifelines, but their limitations must be considered.

The nearest hospital with urology services, necessary for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, is likely Maine Coast Memorial Hospital in Ellsworth, approximately 60 miles away. Driving time, assuming good weather and moderate traffic, is roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. This journey takes you along Route 191, through Machias, and then onto Route 1. The return trip, after a potentially stressful appointment, can be equally taxing.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. Washington County Transportation (WCT) provides demand-response service within the county. While WCT offers door-to-door service, scheduling and availability can be constraints, especially for appointments requiring precise timing. This is a critical consideration for cancer care, where timely access to appointments is essential. Accessibility for those with mobility limitations is a key factor. WCT vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, but the overall travel time and flexibility remain significant concerns.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not reliably available in this remote area. This leaves residents dependent on personal vehicles, public transit, or pre-arranged medical transport. This absence of readily available ride-sharing significantly impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score," as it reduces spontaneous access to care.

Medical transport services, such as Acadian Ambulance, are available, but they are primarily for emergency situations. While they can transport patients for scheduled appointments, the cost can be substantial, and prior arrangements are essential. This adds another layer of complexity to accessing routine care.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 04611 is inherently lower than in urban areas. The distance to specialized care, the limitations of public transportation, and the lack of ride-sharing options all contribute to this. The score reflects the need for careful planning, pre-arranged transportation, and a degree of flexibility in scheduling appointments.

For individuals considering moving to Beals, especially those with a history of prostate cancer or other health concerns, the "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive healthcare planning. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician who can coordinate care, understanding the limitations of local transportation, and exploring all available options for accessing specialized medical services.

The beauty of Beals, the sense of community, and the tranquility of island life are undeniable draws. However, the challenges of healthcare access must be weighed carefully. The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that moving to a rural area requires a realistic assessment of healthcare needs and the resources available to meet them.

The journey to Ellsworth for treatment, while achievable, demands careful consideration. The drive along Route 191 and Route 1, though scenic, requires stamina and planning. The lack of readily available ride-sharing services necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, public transit, or pre-arranged medical transport.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of proactive healthcare planning. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician who can coordinate care, understanding the limitations of local transportation, and exploring all available options for accessing specialized medical services.

For residents of 04611, the "Prostate Cancer Score" is a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about proximity to a hospital; it's about the ability to navigate the complexities of transportation, scheduling, and cost. It's about understanding the limitations and finding creative solutions to ensure timely access to care.

The scenic beauty of Beals, the sense of community, and the slower pace of life are undeniable draws. However, the challenges of healthcare access must be weighed carefully. The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that moving to a rural area requires a realistic assessment of healthcare needs and the resources available to meet them.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a condemnation of life in 04611. Instead, it's a call to awareness, a reminder that healthcare access in rural areas demands careful planning and a proactive approach. It underscores the importance of building strong relationships with healthcare providers, exploring all available transportation options, and advocating for improved healthcare access within the community.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is a tool to help prospective residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It is a reminder that the beauty of Beals comes with the responsibility of planning for the realities of healthcare access.