04983, Strong, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04983, Strong, Maine is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.16 percent of residents in 04983 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 14.60 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 04983

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is a complex undertaking. It involves not only the medical expertise available but also the accessibility of that expertise. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 04983 (Strong, Maine), offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" to assess the ease with which residents can access vital medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access for those facing a prostate cancer diagnosis.

ZIP code 04983 is nestled in the heart of Franklin County, a region characterized by its scenic beauty and rural character. This geographical context significantly influences the transportation dynamics. The primary mode of transportation is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Therefore, drive times to healthcare facilities become a crucial factor in our assessment.

The closest comprehensive healthcare facility, Franklin Memorial Hospital, is located in Farmington, approximately a 20-minute drive via **Route 4** and **US Route 2**. This relatively short drive time is a positive factor, contributing to a favorable Prostate Cancer Score. However, this estimate assumes ideal driving conditions. Winter weather, common in Maine, can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting timely access to appointments and treatments.

For more specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, patients in 04983 may need to travel to larger medical centers in Lewiston or Portland. The drive to Lewiston, primarily via **US Route 2** and **I-95**, is roughly an hour and fifteen minutes. The journey to Portland, a larger metropolitan area with a greater concentration of specialists, takes approximately two hours, primarily via **US Route 2** and **I-95**. These longer travel times present a challenge, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing debilitating side effects.

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The Greater Franklin County Public TransportationPublic Transportation (GFC Transit) offers a demand-response service. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance. While GFC Transit provides door-to-door service, the scheduling requirement and the potential for longer travel times due to multiple pickups and drop-offs can be a drawback. Information on ADA accessibility is available by contacting GFC Transit directly. The lack of fixed-route public transportation, particularly for commuting to healthcare appointments, is a significant negative factor in the Prostate Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability is not guaranteed, especially in a rural area like Strong. The reliability of these services can be unpredictable, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could add to the financial burden of healthcare access. The absence of readily available ride-sharing options lowers the Prostate Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments, are another consideration. While specific medical transportation brands operating directly within 04983 are not readily available, companies like Carelink and FirstLight Home Care may provide transportation services in the area. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate medical equipment needs, which is a significant benefit for patients with mobility issues or other health concerns. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating a barrier to healthcare access for some individuals.

The Prostate Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services, such as support groups and patient navigators, which can help patients navigate the healthcare system. The availability of these services in the local area is essential for a holistic approach to care. Information on local support groups and resources can be obtained through Franklin Memorial Hospital and the American Cancer Society.

Assessing healthcare access for prostate cancer patients in 04983 requires a nuanced understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities. The relatively short drive to Franklin Memorial Hospital is a positive aspect. However, the longer travel times to specialized care facilities in Lewiston and Portland, coupled with the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, present significant challenges. The availability of medical transportation services and local support groups offers some mitigation, but the overall transportation landscape in 04983 necessitates careful planning and consideration for those facing a prostate cancer diagnosis.

The Prostate Cancer Score for 04983 reflects a mixed bag. While the proximity to Franklin Memorial Hospital provides a degree of healthcare access, the limitations in transportation options and the longer travel times to specialized facilities create significant hurdles. This score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, including exploring all available transportation alternatives and utilizing support services to ensure timely and convenient access to necessary medical care.

For individuals considering moving to Strong, Maine, or already residing there, this analysis highlights the importance of factoring in transportation considerations when assessing healthcare access. The ability to drive, or access reliable transportation, is crucial. Careful consideration of the available options is essential for ensuring that individuals can receive the timely and appropriate care they need.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that residents of 04983, facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, can access the best possible care without being unduly burdened by transportation challenges. This requires a multi-faceted approach, including individual planning, community support, and potentially, the expansion of transportation options. This proactive approach is essential for enhancing healthcare access and improving the quality of life for those impacted by prostate cancer.

The Prostate Cancer Score for 04983 is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of transportation and healthcare access. Continued efforts to improve transportation options, increase the availability of support services, and promote awareness of available resources are crucial for improving the score and ensuring that residents of Strong can receive the care they deserve. This is particularly important for a serious illness like prostate cancer, where timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and support can significantly impact patient outcomes.