04648, Jonesboro, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04648, Jonesboro, Maine is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.41 percent of residents in 04648 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Down East Community Hospital with a distance of 6.28 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: A Commute to Healthcare in Jonesboro, Maine (ZIP Code 04648)

Considering a move to the serene coastal town of Jonesboro, Maine (ZIP code 04648)? This report analyzes healthcare access, specifically focusing on prostate cancer care, and the transportation options available to navigate the region. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone, especially those with existing health concerns, to ensure timely and convenient access to medical services. We will examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" for this locale.

The Prostate Cancer Score reflects the ease with which individuals can access specialized care, including urologists, oncologists, radiation therapy, and diagnostic imaging. It considers travel time, availability of transportation, and the overall infrastructure supporting healthcare access. A higher score indicates better access.

Jonesboro, nestled in Washington County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The area's rural nature and limited public transportation necessitate careful consideration of transportation options when assessing the feasibility of residing here, especially for those with ongoing medical needs.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary route connecting Jonesboro to significant healthcare providers involves driving. The most direct route to the nearest major medical center, Maine Coast Memorial Hospital in Ellsworth, utilizes **US Route 1** and covers approximately 60 miles. Under ideal traffic conditions, the drive takes about an hour and fifteen minutes. However, during peak seasons, particularly summer, when tourism increases, traffic congestion can extend travel times.

For specialized prostate cancer care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to larger hospitals in Bangor, approximately 100 miles away. This journey involves taking **US Route 1** to **Interstate 95 (I-95)**. The drive typically lasts around two hours, contingent on traffic. Winter weather conditions can significantly impact travel times, making the journey considerably longer and potentially hazardous. The quality of roads, while generally well-maintained, can be affected by weather events, requiring vigilance and preparedness.

The availability of reliable private transportation is paramount. While the roads are generally passable, the distance to specialized care centers necessitates careful planning and consideration of weather conditions.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Washington County are limited. The Downeast Transportation, a regional transit provider, offers bus services, but these are primarily designed for essential travel and are not specifically tailored for medical appointments. The routes and schedules are infrequent, and services are not always available during evenings or weekends.

The Downeast Transportation’s routes may provide limited access to some healthcare facilities, but the frequency and coverage are not sufficient to support regular medical appointments. ADA-accessible features are available on some buses, but the overall system is not designed to meet the specific needs of patients requiring frequent transportation to medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are extremely limited in Washington County, and their availability in Jonesboro is uncertain. The sparsity of drivers and the long distances involved make ride-sharing an unreliable option for routine medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for patients. Several companies in the region provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs compared to public transit or ride-sharing. The availability of these services can vary, and it is essential to confirm their coverage area and appointment scheduling procedures.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including but not limited to, MedStar Ambulance Service, and Acadian Ambulance Service. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Booking in advance is essential.

**Healthcare Access Assessment:**

Jonesboro's Prostate Cancer Score is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. The drive times to major medical centers are significant, and the lack of robust public transportation options creates challenges for patients. The reliance on private vehicles and the limited availability of ride-sharing services necessitates careful planning and coordination for medical appointments.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline for patients, but the cost and the need for advance booking must be considered. The score reflects the need for proactive planning, especially for individuals with ongoing medical needs.

**Moving to Jonesboro: Healthcare Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Jonesboro, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. The availability of reliable transportation is a critical factor. Those with existing prostate cancer or a family history of the disease should carefully evaluate the practicality of accessing specialized care.

Proactive planning is crucial. Establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, researching medical transport options, and understanding the limitations of public transit are vital steps. Considering the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times and road safety is also essential.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of understanding the healthcare landscape when making relocation decisions. While Jonesboro offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the healthcare access limitations must be carefully weighed against the benefits of residing in this beautiful coastal community. The ability to navigate the transportation challenges is key to ensuring consistent and timely access to medical care.