04666, Pembroke, Maine Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 04666, Pembroke, Maine is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.30 percent of residents in 04666 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Calais Community Hospital with a distance of 15.02 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Pembroke, Maine (ZIP Code 04666)

The specter of Alzheimer's disease casts a long shadow, particularly when considering the practicalities of daily life, such as access to vital healthcare. For individuals and families contemplating a move to Pembroke, Maine (ZIP Code 04666), understanding the ease of navigating the local transportation landscape to reach medical facilities is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" assesses the accessibility of healthcare within this specific area, focusing on transportation options, drive times, and the availability of support services. This will help inform decisions about **moving to Pembroke**, Maine.

Pembroke, a small town nestled in Washington County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding **healthcare access**. The town's relative remoteness, coupled with its aging population, necessitates a thorough examination of the transportation infrastructure and its capacity to serve individuals with cognitive impairments. This analysis considers various modes of transport, from personal vehicles to public transit and specialized medical transport services.

The primary route for accessing healthcare from Pembroke is by car. The most direct path involves traveling along US Route 1, a major artery that winds its way through the coastal communities of Maine. This highway offers scenic views but can be subject to seasonal traffic, particularly during the summer months when tourism peaks. Depending on the specific destination, the drive time to the nearest medical facilities will vary.

For instance, the nearest hospital, Calais Regional Hospital, located in Calais, is approximately a 20-minute drive via US Route 1. This drive is generally straightforward, but individuals with Alzheimer's may find it challenging to navigate independently. The route is well-maintained, but the potential for distractions, such as other vehicles and changing road conditions, could pose difficulties.

Another crucial healthcare provider is Down East Community Hospital in Machias, roughly a 45-minute drive from Pembroke. This route, again primarily via US Route 1, offers a more extended journey, increasing the potential for fatigue and disorientation for individuals with cognitive impairments. The drive also involves navigating several small towns, adding complexity to the journey.

Beyond these primary hospitals, access to specialized care, such as neurology or geriatric services, may require travel to Bangor, a city located approximately 150 miles from Pembroke. This long drive, primarily along US Route 1 and then onto I-95, presents significant challenges, necessitating careful planning and potentially overnight stays. The journey time can easily exceed three hours, making it impractical for regular appointments.

Public transportation options in Pembroke are limited. The Downeast Transportation, a regional public transit provider, offers bus services within Washington County. However, these services may have limited routes and schedules, particularly on weekends and evenings. While Downeast Transportation strives to provide accessible services, including ADA-compliant vehicles, the frequency of service may not adequately meet the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's, who often require frequent and predictable transportation.

Furthermore, the reliance on public transit can be problematic for those with cognitive impairments. The need to navigate schedules, transfer between routes, and interact with unfamiliar environments can be overwhelming. The absence of readily available transportation options significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without the means to drive or the support of a caregiver.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Pembroke and the surrounding areas. This lack of access further compounds the transportation challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's. The absence of these services underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering door-to-door transportation and assistance. Several NEMT providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private companies. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and it's essential to research and plan accordingly.

Families and individuals considering **moving to Pembroke** must proactively explore the availability of medical transport services and assess their affordability and suitability. These services can provide a vital lifeline, ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's can attend medical appointments and access necessary care.

The Alzheimer's Score for Pembroke, Maine, reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers a relatively safe and close-knit community, the limitations in **transportation** options pose significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the absence of ride-sharing services create barriers to **healthcare access**.

The drive times to the nearest hospitals are manageable, but the longer distances to specialized care centers, coupled with the lack of readily available public transportation, demand careful consideration. The success of **moving to Pembroke** for individuals with Alzheimer's hinges on proactive planning, including securing reliable transportation, exploring medical transport services, and building a strong support network.

The availability of caregivers, family members, or community volunteers who can provide transportation assistance is crucial. Furthermore, the community's willingness to embrace and support individuals with cognitive impairments is paramount. This includes promoting awareness of Alzheimer's disease, advocating for improved transportation options, and fostering a sense of belonging.

In conclusion, while Pembroke offers a tranquil setting, the transportation infrastructure presents significant hurdles for individuals with Alzheimer's. Careful planning, the utilization of available resources, and a strong community support system are essential to ensure that residents with cognitive impairments can access the healthcare they need and maintain their quality of life. The Alzheimer's Score for Pembroke highlights the need for ongoing efforts to enhance **transportation** options and improve **healthcare access** for this vulnerable population.