04617, Brooksville, Maine Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 04617, Brooksville, Maine is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.89 percent of residents in 04617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Blue Hill Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.70 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in 04617

The allure of Brooksville, Maine (ZIP code 04617), with its rugged coastline and tranquil atmosphere, often draws individuals seeking a slower pace of life. However, for those managing arthritis, the reality of **healthcare access** in this remote region presents a unique set of challenges, demanding careful consideration of **transportation** options. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the accessibility of medical care, focusing on the practicalities of getting to appointments, a crucial factor for anyone considering **moving to Brooksville**.

The primary concern for individuals with arthritis is the impact of travel on their condition. Prolonged sitting, jarring roads, and the physical strain of navigating public **transportation** can exacerbate pain and fatigue. Therefore, this assessment prioritizes ease of access, considering both drive times and alternative options.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The nearest major medical centers are located in Ellsworth, approximately 20 miles from Brooksville. The journey typically involves traveling on Route 175, a scenic but winding road, followed by a stretch on Route 1. Traffic is generally light, but during peak tourist season (summer), delays are possible. The drive time averages 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the driver's pace.

Beyond Ellsworth, Bangor, approximately 60 miles away, offers a wider array of specialized medical services. The drive to Bangor involves traveling on Route 175 to Route 1, then to US-1A. The journey, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours, can be particularly challenging for individuals with arthritis due to the longer duration and potential for discomfort.

Road conditions are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose significant difficulties. Snow and ice can make driving treacherous, increasing the risk of accidents and making it difficult to reach medical appointments. The absence of readily available public **transportation** options further compounds these challenges.

**Public Transportation:**

Public **transportation** options in 04617 are extremely limited. Hancock County, where Brooksville is located, offers a demand-response service, Hancock County **Transportation** (HCT). This service, however, requires advance booking, often a day or two in advance, and operates within specific hours, typically weekdays. Availability for medical appointments can be unpredictable, and the service may not be suitable for urgent needs.

HCT vehicles are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited service area and the need for advance booking can still pose significant barriers to **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are virtually nonexistent in Brooksville and the surrounding areas. This leaves individuals with arthritis reliant on personal vehicles or other limited options.

Medical **transportation** services are available, but their availability and cost vary. Local ambulance services, such as those provided by Brooksville Fire Department, are primarily for emergencies. Non-emergency medical **transportation** is often provided by private companies, such as MedStar **Transportation** or Northeast **Transportation**. These services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, especially for longer distances.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare providers within Brooksville is limited. The town has a primary care physician and a few specialists who visit periodically. For specialized care, such as rheumatology or orthopedic services, individuals with arthritis must travel to Ellsworth or Bangor. This necessitates careful planning, considering drive times, **transportation** costs, and the potential impact of travel on their condition.

**Arthritis Score Summary:**

The "Arthritis Score" for 04617 reflects the challenges associated with accessing medical care for individuals with arthritis. The score is based on the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to Ellsworth (30-45 minutes) and longer drive times to Bangor (1.5-2 hours).
* **Public Transportation:** Extremely limited public **transportation** options with demand-response service, requiring advance booking.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Ride-sharing services are virtually nonexistent.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but expensive and requiring advance booking.
* **Specialized Care:** Limited access to specialized care within Brooksville, requiring travel to Ellsworth or Bangor.
* **Road Conditions:** Generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose significant challenges.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Arthritis Considering Moving to Brooksville:**

* **Assess Mobility:** Carefully evaluate your ability to drive and tolerate long car rides.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify healthcare providers in Ellsworth and Bangor, including rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, and physical therapists.
* **Explore Medical Transportation Options:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services.
* **Consider Proximity to Essential Services:** Prioritize living in a location that minimizes travel distance to essential services, such as pharmacies and grocery stores.
* **Plan for Winter Weather:** Be prepared for potential disruptions caused by winter weather, including snow and ice.
* **Connect with Support Networks:** Establish connections with local support groups or organizations that can provide assistance with **transportation** or other needs.

**Conclusion:**

Brooksville, with its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, offers a desirable lifestyle for many. However, individuals with arthritis must carefully consider the challenges associated with **healthcare access**. The limited **transportation** options and the need for travel to access specialized care require careful planning and preparation. By understanding the limitations and proactively addressing these challenges, individuals with arthritis can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape in 04617 and enjoy the benefits of living in this unique coastal community. The decision of **moving to Brooksville** for those with arthritis demands thoughtful consideration of these factors.