04684, Surry, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04684, Surry, Maine is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.82 percent of residents in 04684 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Surry, Maine (ZIP Code 04684)**

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, is a complex one. For those contemplating a move to Surry, Maine (ZIP Code 04684), and with a family history or personal concern for prostate cancer, understanding the landscape of healthcare access is paramount. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," a subjective assessment of the ease and efficiency of obtaining necessary medical services, considering transportation options and their impact on overall well-being.

Surry, a charming coastal town, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness presents challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for specialized services like those related to prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and the presence of medical transport services. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about moving to Surry, Maine.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents of Surry is the personal vehicle. The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating the local roadways. The primary artery is Route 1, a scenic but often busy coastal highway. Heading south on Route 1, one can reach Ellsworth, a town with a significant medical presence, in approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Ellsworth is home to Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital, a regional medical center offering a range of services, including urology and potentially early-stage prostate cancer diagnostics and treatment. This proximity is a significant advantage for residents of Surry.

For more specialized care, particularly if advanced treatment such as radiation therapy or complex surgery is required, the journey extends further. Bangor, approximately an hour's drive via Route 1A and then Interstate 95, offers access to Eastern Maine Medical Center (Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center), a tertiary care facility with comprehensive cancer services, including a dedicated oncology center.

The drive to Bangor, while manageable, necessitates careful planning. Traffic on I-95 can be unpredictable, especially during peak commuting hours or tourist season. Furthermore, the drive itself, particularly when dealing with a medical condition, can be physically and emotionally taxing. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers the cumulative impact of these factors.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Surry and the surrounding areas are limited. Hancock County, including Surry, has a public transit system, but it is primarily focused on demand-response services. This means that rides must be scheduled in advance, and the service area and hours of operation are restricted.

The availability of scheduled routes, particularly those connecting Surry directly to Ellsworth or Bangor, is limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or who are unable to drive due to medical conditions or age-related limitations.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor. While the Hancock County transit system strives to provide accessible transportation, the limited frequency and the need for advance scheduling can pose difficulties for individuals with mobility issues. The "Prostate Cancer Score" acknowledges the potential barriers created by the lack of reliable and accessible public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bangor area. However, their presence in Surry is less consistent, and availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, not always a dependable option.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the region. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, they often require pre-authorization and can be costly, especially for frequent appointments.

The presence of medical transport services provides a safety net for individuals who cannot drive or who require assistance with mobility. However, the reliance on these services can impact the overall "Prostate Cancer Score" due to the added complexity, cost, and potential for delays.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" – An Assessment**

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Surry, Maine (ZIP Code 04684), is moderate. The proximity to Ellsworth and its medical facilities provides a significant advantage. However, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport for more specialized care present challenges.

The score emphasizes the importance of careful planning. Individuals considering a move to Surry, particularly those with concerns about prostate cancer, should thoroughly investigate their specific healthcare needs. They should also assess their ability to drive, their access to transportation assistance, and the availability of support networks.

**Moving to Surry: A Balanced Perspective**

The decision to move to Surry requires a balanced perspective. The town's natural beauty, tranquil lifestyle, and strong sense of community are undeniable assets. However, the challenges related to healthcare access, particularly for specialized services, must be carefully considered.

For individuals with prostate cancer or a heightened risk, a proactive approach is essential. This includes establishing a relationship with a local primary care physician, researching available urology services in Ellsworth and Bangor, and familiarizing oneself with transportation options.

Ultimately, the "Prostate Cancer Score" is a tool to help individuals make informed decisions. It is not a definitive judgment, but rather a starting point for a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access in Surry, Maine. By understanding the transportation landscape and the available medical resources, individuals can make a choice that aligns with their healthcare needs and their desire for a fulfilling life in this beautiful coastal community.