Asthma Score

04069, Pownal, Maine Asthma Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 04069, Pownal, Maine

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 04069, Pownal, Maine is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.66 percent of residents in 04069 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's Regional Medical Center with a distance of 14.20 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 04069, Pownal, Maine

Asthma Score 98
People Score 88
Provider Score 99
Hospital Score 58
Travel Score 53

Closest Hospital - ST MARY'S REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 04069 Pownal Maine
No Cars 0.86 0.86 2.13
1 Car 10.39 10.39 18.39
2 Cars 44.13 44.13 45.49
3 or More Cars 44.62 44.62 34.00

Vehicular Access in 04069, Pownal, Maine

Travel Score Review of 04069, Pownal, Maine

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pownal (ZIP Code 04069)

Relocating to Pownal, Maine (ZIP Code 04069), offers a serene escape. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the practicality of accessing healthcare becomes paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes transportation options to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access for potential residents. The aim is to empower informed decisions, particularly for those prioritizing respiratory health.

Pownal's location in Cumberland County, while picturesque, presents a unique transportation landscape. The town's rural character necessitates a careful evaluation of available options for reaching medical appointments and emergency care. The Asthma Score assesses the ease and reliability of these transportation methods, recognizing the critical need for timely access to healthcare for asthma management.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

The primary artery connecting Pownal to healthcare hubs is Interstate 95 (I-95). This major highway provides relatively swift access to Portland and its surrounding areas, where a greater concentration of specialized medical facilities exists. The drive to Maine Medical Center in Portland, a comprehensive healthcare provider, is approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. Peak rush hour, however, can significantly extend this time, potentially impacting the management of an asthma attack.

Route 9, a secondary road, offers an alternative route to Portland, but it typically adds 10-15 minutes to the drive. Route 9 is less congested than I-95, particularly during peak hours, and provides a more scenic route. However, it is a slower alternative, and in the event of an emergency, the interstate would be the preferred option.

For healthcare facilities located north of Pownal, such as those in Brunswick, the drive time is considerably shorter, averaging 15-20 minutes via Route 9. This proximity can be advantageous for routine appointments and less critical medical needs. The choice of route, I-95 or Route 9, hinges on the destination and the time of day.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within Pownal and to healthcare facilities are limited. The Greater Portland Metro (METRO) system, the primary public transit provider for the Portland area, does not directly serve Pownal. The closest METRO routes are accessible in Portland, necessitating a drive to a designated park-and-ride location.

The METRO Route 9A, connecting Portland and Freeport, offers a potential, albeit indirect, option. It stops in Freeport, approximately a 15-minute drive from Pownal. This route, however, requires a transfer to another bus or a ride-share service to reach specific healthcare facilities in Portland.

The METRO system adheres to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and designated seating areas. However, the reliance on multiple transfers and the extended travel times make public transit a less desirable option for individuals with asthma, especially during an acute episode.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Pownal, providing a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive or who need to avoid the stress of navigating traffic. The availability of these services, however, can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. During peak hours or inclement weather, wait times can increase, potentially impacting the ability to reach healthcare facilities promptly.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and LifeFlight of Maine provide ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation. These services are equipped to handle individuals with respiratory conditions, ensuring safe and comfortable transport. However, these services can be expensive and are typically reserved for situations where other transportation options are not feasible.

**Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive Assessment**

The Asthma Score for Pownal (04069) reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While driving offers the most direct and flexible access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a disadvantage for those unable to drive or who lack access to a car. Public transit is limited, requiring multiple transfers and extended travel times. Ride-sharing services provide a convenient alternative, but their availability is not guaranteed. Medical transport services offer specialized support but come with associated costs.

The proximity of healthcare facilities in Brunswick is a significant advantage, offering quicker access to routine appointments and less critical medical needs. However, the longer drive times to Portland's specialized facilities should be considered, particularly for individuals with severe asthma.

**Moving to Pownal: Considerations for Asthma Management**

For individuals considering moving to Pownal with asthma, careful planning is essential. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities, ensuring access to reliable transportation, and establishing a clear emergency plan are crucial steps.

Before relocating, prospective residents should research local healthcare providers, including pulmonologists and allergists, to ensure they can meet their specific medical needs. They should also familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing availability.

Establishing a relationship with local emergency services is also vital. Knowing the location of the nearest urgent care facilities and emergency rooms can provide peace of mind. Additionally, having a readily available emergency inhaler and a detailed asthma action plan can help manage asthma symptoms effectively.

The Asthma Score for Pownal (04069) highlights the importance of proactive planning for individuals with asthma. While the town offers a tranquil environment, careful consideration of healthcare access is paramount. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively addressing potential challenges, individuals with asthma can successfully integrate into the Pownal community and maintain their respiratory health. This includes being aware of the potential for increased pollen counts and other environmental triggers.

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Health Scores Near 04069, Pownal, Maine

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Health Scores in 04069, Pownal, Maine