04920, Bingham, Maine Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 04920, Bingham, Maine is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.52 percent of residents in 04920 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Redington Fairview General Hospital with a distance of 23.24 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 04920 for Memory Care

The decision to relocate, particularly when navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, demands meticulous planning. This write-up, tailored for ZIP code 04920 (Bingham, Maine), assesses the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options and their suitability for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. We'll delve into drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions, providing a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" to inform your decision.

Bingham, nestled in the heart of Somerset County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding transportation and healthcare access. The rural nature of the area means that while the community is close-knit, healthcare facilities are often located further afield. This necessitates a thorough understanding of available transportation options, especially when considering the needs of someone with Alzheimer's.

The primary healthcare provider for Bingham residents is Redington-Fairview General Hospital in Skowhegan, approximately 20 miles away. Driving to Skowhegan typically involves taking Route 16 East, a scenic but winding road. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, takes about 30-40 minutes. However, winter weather can significantly impact travel times, potentially doubling the journey. Route 16 is generally well-maintained, but its rural character means limited shoulders and occasional blind curves, factors that can pose challenges for drivers or passengers with impaired cognitive abilities.

Alternatively, one could utilize Route 201, a slightly longer route, to reach Skowhegan. This highway, known as the Old Canada Road Scenic Byway, offers a more direct path. However, this route also has its share of challenges, including potential congestion during peak hours, particularly in the Skowhegan area. The choice of route depends on the individual's comfort level and the prevailing traffic and weather conditions.

For specialized care, individuals may need to travel further afield. The Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care in Augusta, about 60 miles away, is a significant regional resource. Reaching Augusta involves navigating Route 201 South to Interstate 95 South, a journey that can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. This longer drive necessitates careful planning, including considerations for rest stops and potential delays.

The MaineGeneral Medical Center in Augusta is another important healthcare destination. This journey requires a similar route as the Harold Alfond Center, making the same considerations for transportation and planning necessary. The drive is lengthy, and the complexities of interstate travel can be overwhelming for someone with Alzheimer's.

Public transportation options in 04920 are limited. Somerset Explorer, the local public transit service, offers some routes, but their frequency and coverage are restricted. The service primarily operates on weekdays, with limited weekend availability. The buses do not have dedicated routes to healthcare facilities in Skowhegan or Augusta, and the schedules are often not conducive to medical appointments.

While the Somerset Explorer does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations, the lack of direct routes to healthcare facilities remains a significant barrier. The need for multiple transfers and the potential for long wait times can exacerbate the challenges faced by someone with Alzheimer's. The current public transit infrastructure presents a considerable hurdle to reliable healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Bingham. The rural location and low population density make it economically unfeasible for these companies to operate regularly. This leaves individuals reliant on private transportation or alternative options.

Medical transportation services are available in the area, but they come with their own set of considerations. Companies like Northeast Transportation offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services provide door-to-door assistance, which can be invaluable for individuals with cognitive impairments. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly.

Another option is the use of volunteer driver programs, often organized through local senior centers or community organizations. These programs offer transportation to medical appointments, but availability can be limited, and they may not be suitable for all needs. The reliability and consistency of these programs are crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for 04920, based on transportation and healthcare access, is moderate. While the primary healthcare provider in Skowhegan is relatively accessible by car, the limited public transit options and the absence of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The need for specialized care often necessitates longer drives to Augusta, adding to the complexity.

For someone considering moving to Bingham with Alzheimer's, careful planning is essential. The availability of a reliable driver, whether family, friend, or hired service, is paramount. Pre-booking medical transportation services and exploring volunteer driver programs are crucial steps.

The choice of housing should also consider proximity to potential caregivers and ease of access to transportation. Living in a location closer to Route 16 or Route 201 could improve access to healthcare. The individual's ability to navigate the environment, both physically and cognitively, must be a primary consideration.

The decision to move to Bingham requires a comprehensive assessment of individual needs and available resources. While the community offers a peaceful and supportive environment, the limitations in transportation and healthcare access necessitate careful planning and proactive measures to ensure the well-being of someone with Alzheimer's. The success of this move hinges on the ability to create a safe, accessible, and supportive environment that prioritizes healthcare access.