04617, Brooksville, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04617, Brooksville, Maine is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.89 percent of residents in 04617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Blue Hill Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.70 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in 04617

The quaint coastal community of Brooksville, Maine, nestled within the 04617 ZIP code, offers a serene lifestyle, a haven for those seeking respite from the urban clamor. However, the tranquility of this peninsula necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for men concerned about prostate health. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," assessing the ease of reaching essential medical services, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely diagnosis and treatment.

The ability to navigate the healthcare landscape is crucial, especially when facing the complexities of prostate cancer. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, underscoring the importance of readily available diagnostic and therapeutic options. This score considers the drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-share availability, and medical transport services within the region. It is designed to inform prospective residents and current inhabitants about the realities of healthcare access in 04617.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Brooksville is the automobile. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in Ellsworth, approximately 30 miles away. This journey, while scenic, requires careful planning. The most direct route involves traveling on ME-175 South, a well-maintained state highway that winds its way through the picturesque landscape. Expect a drive time of roughly 45 minutes, assuming ideal traffic conditions. This duration can extend during peak commuting hours or adverse weather, potentially impacting the timely arrival for appointments or emergency situations.

Alternative routes, such as utilizing ME-166, offer slightly different perspectives of the region, but they generally add to the travel time. These roads are generally well-maintained, but the rural nature of the area means that winter weather can pose significant challenges. Snow and ice can dramatically increase travel times and necessitate the use of four-wheel drive vehicles.

Public transportation options are limited in this area. Hancock County does provide a public transit system, the Island Explorer, but its routes are primarily designed to serve the Acadia National Park area and do not offer direct, frequent service to Ellsworth from Brooksville. The Island Explorer’s routes are not designed for regular medical appointments. The lack of reliable public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or who are unable to drive. Furthermore, the Island Explorer's ADA accessibility features may not be sufficient for all individuals with disabilities, further complicating the transportation landscape.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in this rural area. Their presence is sporadic, and relying on them for scheduled medical appointments is highly discouraged. The unpredictable availability and potential surge pricing can create financial and logistical burdens, particularly for those on fixed incomes. This scarcity of ride-sharing options further exacerbates the transportation challenges.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and may involve fees, but they provide a reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation. However, availability can still be limited, especially during peak demand, and the cost can be a factor.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for 04617 reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor, making access dependent on car ownership and driving ability. The limited public transit options and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation. While medical transportation services provide a valuable alternative, their availability and cost can be a constraint.

Moving to Brooksville, or any rural area, requires a realistic assessment of healthcare access. Individuals considering relocating should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and potential healthcare requirements. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with local medical providers and researching available transportation options, is essential. This includes understanding the drive times, the availability of medical transport, and the potential impact of weather conditions.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a rural community. It highlights the importance of individual preparedness, community support, and the need for continued efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and healthcare services. The ability to navigate the healthcare landscape is crucial for men concerned about prostate health.

The score underscores the importance of proactive healthcare management. Regular screenings, early detection, and timely treatment are vital for positive outcomes. Residents should establish strong relationships with their primary care physicians and specialists, ensuring they have a clear understanding of their healthcare needs and the available resources.

The community itself can play a crucial role in improving healthcare access. Supporting local healthcare providers, advocating for improved public transit options, and promoting awareness of available medical transportation services can make a significant difference. Collaboration between residents, healthcare professionals, and local government is essential to create a more accessible and supportive healthcare environment.

The beauty and tranquility of Brooksville are undeniable. However, prospective residents must acknowledge the transportation challenges and plan accordingly. Understanding the "Prostate Cancer Score" is a crucial step in making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in this unique coastal community. The journey to healthcare in 04617 requires careful navigation, but with proper planning and community support, it is a journey that can be successfully undertaken.