04947, Kingfield, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04947, Kingfield, Maine is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.14 percent of residents in 04947 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 33.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 29.29 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kingfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04947)

The crisp air of Kingfield, Maine, nestled amidst the rolling hills and verdant forests, offers a certain allure. The promise of a slower pace, the vibrant hues of autumn, and the welcoming spirit of a close-knit community beckon many. However, when considering a move, especially for those seeking healthcare access, a deeper dive into the practicalities of transportation becomes essential. This is particularly true for individuals managing or at risk for prostate cancer, a condition that often necessitates frequent medical appointments and specialized care. This write-up explores the prostate cancer score for ZIP code 04947, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare resources, focusing on transportation options.

The prostate cancer score, in this context, isn't a formal medical metric. Instead, it's a qualitative assessment of the ease with which residents of Kingfield can access prostate cancer-related healthcare. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of medical transport services. It aims to provide a realistic picture for those contemplating a move or already residing in the area, helping them navigate the complexities of healthcare access.

Kingfield, a quintessential Maine town, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary mode of transportation is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The drive to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, where specialized prostate cancer care is available, is a crucial factor. The nearest hospital with urology services, including potential prostate cancer treatment, is Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington, approximately a 30-minute drive via Route 27 and then Route 2. This drive, while relatively short, can be impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Maine winters.

The next closest option, offering a broader range of specialized services, is MaineGeneral Medical Center in Augusta. This journey, however, becomes significantly longer. The drive involves navigating Route 27 south to Route 4, then onto Route 201, and finally, I-95. The estimated drive time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions. This extended travel time could present a significant challenge for patients requiring frequent appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

For more specialized care, such as advanced surgical procedures or clinical trials, patients might need to travel to larger medical centers in Portland or Bangor. These trips involve substantial travel times. Portland, accessible via Route 27 south to Route 4, then onto I-95, is roughly a 2-hour and 30-minute drive. Bangor, reachable via Route 27 north to Route 2, then onto I-95, is approximately a 2-hour and 15-minute drive. These lengthy commutes underscore the importance of considering the impact of transportation on healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Kingfield and the surrounding area are limited. The Greater Franklin County Public TransportationPublic Transportation (GFCPT) offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their rides in advance. This service, while providing a crucial link for those without personal vehicles, may not always be ideal for urgent medical appointments or those requiring frequent trips. The GFCPT does not have fixed routes and operates on a schedule. ADA accessibility is available upon request.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Kingfield is another consideration. While these services are becoming increasingly prevalent, their availability in rural areas can be inconsistent. Ride-sharing availability in Kingfield is limited, and patients would likely need to pre-arrange rides, especially for appointments outside of standard business hours. This lack of readily available ride-sharing options further emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments, offer an alternative. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including Maine Medical Transport and Northeast Medical Transport. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, accommodating wheelchairs and other mobility aids. However, these services often come at a cost, and insurance coverage varies. Careful consideration of insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses is crucial when relying on medical transport.

For individuals considering moving to Kingfield, or for current residents seeking prostate cancer care, the prostate cancer score reflects a mixed picture. While the drive to Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington is manageable, access to specialized care and comprehensive treatment options necessitates longer travel times. The limited public transportation and inconsistent ride-sharing availability further complicate healthcare access.

The presence of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but the cost and logistical considerations must be carefully evaluated. The best approach involves a proactive strategy. This includes thoroughly researching healthcare providers in the area, understanding insurance coverage for transportation services, and planning for potential travel time.

For individuals with prostate cancer, or those at high risk, the decision to move to Kingfield or remain in the area requires a careful assessment of these transportation factors. It’s a balancing act between the allure of a rural lifestyle and the practical realities of healthcare access. This assessment highlights the importance of planning ahead, establishing a reliable transportation network, and proactively engaging with the healthcare system to ensure optimal care. The beauty of Kingfield should be balanced with the practicalities of transportation and healthcare access.