04666, Pembroke, Maine Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis 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.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pembroke, Maine (ZIP Code 04666)

The serene coastal town of Pembroke, Maine, nestled in Washington County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals managing arthritis, the ease of accessing healthcare becomes a crucial consideration. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the accessibility of medical services within and around ZIP Code 04666, focusing on transportation options, a vital component of healthcare access. This information is especially pertinent for those contemplating moving to Pembroke, seeking a balance between a peaceful environment and readily available medical care.

Pembroke, a sparsely populated area, presents unique transportation challenges. The nearest major medical facilities, including hospitals and specialist clinics, are located in neighboring towns. This necessitates careful planning for appointments, therapies, and ongoing medical management. The primary mode of transportation in this region is personal vehicles. The reliance on cars significantly impacts the Arthritis Score, as individuals with mobility limitations may face difficulties.

Driving is the most direct route. From Pembroke, the most frequented destination for specialized care is Calais Regional Hospital, located in Calais, Maine. The journey primarily involves traveling along US Route 1, a major north-south artery. The drive is approximately 10 miles, typically taking 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This route offers relatively smooth driving conditions, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and road safety, especially for those with arthritis.

For specialized care, such as rheumatology or orthopedic services, patients may need to travel further afield. Bangor, Maine, approximately 100 miles away, is a regional hub with a wider array of specialists and hospitals, including Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center. The primary route to Bangor involves taking US Route 1 north to US Route 9 east, then onto Interstate 95 south. The drive can take approximately two hours, depending on traffic and weather. This longer commute demands careful planning and consideration for those with arthritis, requiring frequent breaks and ensuring comfortable seating.

Public transportation options are limited in Pembroke. Washington County Transportation System (WCTS) provides public transit, but its services in this area are infrequent. The WCTS offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their rides in advance. This service is available for residents of Pembroke and surrounding areas. However, scheduling can be challenging, and the availability of rides is not guaranteed. ADA-compliant vehicles are available, featuring ramps and other accessibility features. This is critical for individuals with mobility limitations. The limited frequency and the need for advance scheduling negatively impact the Arthritis Score, making it less convenient for those with arthritis.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are sporadically available in the area. Their presence is not as consistent as in more urban centers. Availability is often dependent on driver availability and demand. This unreliability poses a significant challenge for individuals with arthritis, who may require transportation at specific times for medical appointments. The uncertainty surrounding ride-sharing further diminishes the Arthritis Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, are available but may have limited presence in the area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility and providing support during the journey. However, the cost of these services can be considerable, and availability might be restricted. Researching and securing these services requires advanced planning.

The terrain in Pembroke is relatively flat, making walking and using mobility aids like canes or walkers feasible for some. However, sidewalks are not consistently available, particularly outside of the town center. This can present challenges for individuals with arthritis, especially during inclement weather.

The overall Arthritis Score for Pembroke, Maine (ZIP Code 04666) is moderately low. While the immediate drive to Calais Regional Hospital is relatively short, the limited public transportation, sporadic ride-sharing, and the need for longer drives to access specialized care significantly impact healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for weather-related delays further complicate matters.

For individuals considering moving to Pembroke with arthritis, careful planning is essential. Prioritizing a location with easy access to US Route 1 is advantageous. Establishing relationships with local medical providers and exploring available medical transportation options before relocating is highly recommended. Furthermore, understanding the limitations of public transportation and ride-sharing services is critical.

The Arthritis Score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Evaluating the availability of medical services, including physical therapy, pain management clinics, and rheumatologists, is crucial. Researching and establishing relationships with healthcare providers before moving can mitigate some of the challenges associated with transportation.

The availability of support services, such as home healthcare and in-home physical therapy, can also improve healthcare access. These services can reduce the frequency of travel and provide essential care within the comfort of one's home.

Ultimately, the Arthritis Score for Pembroke highlights the trade-offs between a tranquil lifestyle and convenient healthcare access. While the town offers a peaceful environment, individuals with arthritis must carefully consider the transportation challenges and proactively plan for their medical needs. This thorough assessment of transportation options and healthcare access is crucial for making an informed decision about moving to Pembroke, ensuring that the benefits of the location are balanced with the practicalities of managing arthritis.