04671, Robbinston, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04671, Robbinston, Maine is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.91 percent of residents in 04671 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calais Community Hospital with a distance of 9.84 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Robbinston, Maine (ZIP Code 04671)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare needs, demands a thorough understanding of accessibility. This analysis, focused on prostate cancer care, examines the transportation landscape within and around Robbinston, Maine (ZIP Code 04671), evaluating the ease with which residents can access vital medical services. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, ultimately assigning a "Prostate Cancer Score" to reflect the overall accessibility of healthcare in this specific geographic area. This score considers factors crucial for prostate cancer patients, including timely appointments, specialized treatments, and ongoing support.

Robbinston, a small coastal town in Washington County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its relative isolation, coupled with the aging population, necessitates a nuanced understanding of the transportation infrastructure. The ability to reach urologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and support services is paramount for effective prostate cancer management. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the transportation realities for individuals considering a move to Robbinston or already residing there.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in Robbinston is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities is crucial. The closest major medical center is Calais Regional Hospital, located approximately 10 miles away, a drive that typically takes 15-20 minutes via Route 1. This relatively short commute offers a degree of convenience for routine checkups and initial consultations. However, specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, often necessitate travel to larger hospitals in Bangor or Portland.

Traveling to Bangor, roughly 100 miles away, requires a drive of approximately two hours, primarily utilizing Route 1 and Interstate 95. This journey, while manageable, can be taxing for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects. The drive to Portland, a significantly longer distance of about 180 miles, translates to a 3-4 hour drive, primarily via I-95. This extended travel time adds considerable stress and logistical complexity, especially for frequent appointments. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can further impact travel times and safety, making reliable transportation a critical concern.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Robbinston are limited. The Downeast Transportation, a regional public transit provider, offers bus routes throughout Washington County. However, service frequency and route coverage in Robbinston are restricted. While the specific route numbers and schedules fluctuate, it is essential to investigate the current availability of buses serving the town. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is a critical factor for individuals with mobility limitations. Confirming the availability of wheelchair lifts, ramps, and designated seating is essential.

The limited public transit options underscore the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for accessing healthcare. The absence of frequent and reliable public transportation presents a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. This scarcity of options necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare planning, including arranging transportation well in advance of appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in rural areas like Robbinston. Availability is sporadic, and wait times can be substantial. Relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments is therefore precarious. Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. These services, often provided by private companies or non-profit organizations, typically require advance booking.

The availability of medical transport services varies. Investigating the specific brands operating in the area is crucial. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility challenges and ensuring patients arrive safely at their appointments. However, the cost of medical transportation can be a significant factor, and understanding insurance coverage for these services is essential. The need for pre-booking, sometimes weeks in advance, adds another layer of complexity.

**Healthcare Access and the Prostate Cancer Score:**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Robbinston (ZIP Code 04671) reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. The score is a composite measure, considering drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share unreliability, and the availability of medical transport services. The score is not a single number, but rather a narrative assessment.

The score is not a single number, but rather a narrative assessment. The score reflects the combined impact of transportation factors on healthcare access. The relatively short drive to Calais Regional Hospital provides a baseline level of accessibility for routine care. However, the longer travel distances to Bangor and Portland for specialized treatments significantly impact the score. The limited public transit options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further diminish the score. The availability of medical transport services, while offering a crucial lifeline, adds complexity and potential cost.

For individuals considering a move to Robbinston, or those already residing there, the "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning. Individuals with prostate cancer or at risk should consider these factors when assessing the suitability of the area. This includes proactively identifying and securing reliable transportation options, understanding insurance coverage for medical transport, and establishing relationships with healthcare providers in advance.

**Moving to Robbinston and Healthcare Planning:**

Moving to Robbinston presents both advantages and disadvantages. The small-town charm, natural beauty, and lower cost of living can be appealing. However, the healthcare access challenges necessitate careful consideration. Before relocating, individuals with prostate cancer or at risk should:

* **Research Local Healthcare Providers:** Identify urologists, oncologists, and other specialists in the area and surrounding regions.
* **Assess Transportation Options:** Evaluate the feasibility of driving, the availability of public transit, and the reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Understand Insurance Coverage:** Confirm insurance coverage for medical transportation and out-of-area healthcare services.
* **Develop a Healthcare Plan:** Create a comprehensive plan outlining how to access necessary medical care, including transportation arrangements.
* **Consider Support Services:** Explore the availability of local support groups and resources for prostate cancer patients and their families.

By proactively addressing these considerations, individuals can make informed decisions about moving to Robbinston and ensure they have access to the healthcare they need. The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that transportation is a critical element of healthcare access, particularly in rural areas.