04093, Buxton, Maine Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 04093, Buxton, Maine is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.10 percent of residents in 04093 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Spring Harbor Hospital with a distance of 9.97 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04093 (Buxton, Maine)**

Navigating healthcare access, especially for individuals managing asthma, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This assessment focuses on ZIP code 04093, encompassing Buxton, Maine, providing a comprehensive "Asthma Score" that evaluates the feasibility and challenges of commuting to medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a realistic picture for residents and those contemplating a move to this area.

Buxton, a sprawling community in southern Maine, presents unique transportation challenges. The town’s rural character often translates to longer travel times and limited public transit options. The Asthma Score, therefore, weighs these factors heavily, recognizing that reliable and timely healthcare access is paramount for asthma sufferers. The goal is to provide a clear picture of transportation realities, allowing informed decisions about healthcare and residency.

**Driving: The Primary Mode**

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation in Buxton. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are U.S. Route 202 and Maine State Route 22. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the junction of Route 202 and the Maine Turnpike (I-95). Drive times to healthcare facilities are thus a crucial component of the Asthma Score.

The nearest major healthcare providers are located in Portland, approximately 20-30 miles away, depending on the specific destination. Driving to Maine Medical Center or Mercy Hospital, both in Portland, can take anywhere from 30 to 50 minutes, factoring in traffic and road conditions. The journey typically involves navigating Route 202, connecting to the Maine Turnpike, and then exiting near the hospital.

For urgent care or specialist appointments in South Portland, the travel time is similar, utilizing Route 22 and potentially the Maine Turnpike. The Asthma Score acknowledges that these drive times can be significantly impacted by weather, particularly during Maine's harsh winters. Snow and ice can add considerable delays, making reliable transportation even more critical.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit in Buxton is limited, impacting healthcare access. Greater Portland Metro (METRO) operates bus routes, but service within Buxton is infrequent and primarily focuses on connecting the town to Portland. The METRO Route 7, for instance, provides service along Route 202, but its frequency is not ideal for frequent medical appointments.

The Asthma Score considers the limitations of public transit. The METRO buses are generally ADA-accessible, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent schedules and the travel time to Portland, combined with the need to transfer to other routes, make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many asthma patients, particularly during exacerbations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplemental Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Buxton, but their reliability and availability can fluctuate. The Asthma Score considers the potential challenges of relying on these services, especially during inclement weather or off-peak hours. Surge pricing, a common occurrence during periods of high demand, can also add to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as LifeFlight of Maine, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are typically reserved for critical care and are not a practical solution for routine appointments. The Asthma Score acknowledges the crucial role of emergency services but emphasizes the need for reliable transportation for regular healthcare needs.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

The Asthma Score also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities to the residents of 04093. While Buxton itself has some primary care providers, specialized asthma care often requires travel to Portland or South Portland. This distance, coupled with the transportation challenges, underscores the importance of planning and preparedness for asthma patients.

Access to pharmacies for medication refills is another critical factor. Buxton has local pharmacies, but the availability of specialized asthma medications and the potential for delays in obtaining prescriptions can be a concern. The Asthma Score takes into account the need for timely access to medications and the potential impact of transportation on medication adherence.

**Moving to Buxton: Considerations for Asthma Patients**

For individuals considering a move to Buxton, the Asthma Score offers valuable insights. While the town offers a rural lifestyle, the transportation challenges must be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their healthcare needs, evaluate the availability of reliable transportation, and factor in the potential costs associated with commuting to medical facilities.

The Asthma Score encourages prospective residents to research the specific healthcare providers in the area, inquire about appointment availability, and explore the options for managing asthma in a rural setting. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining optimal health.

**Asthma Score Summary**

The Asthma Score for ZIP code 04093 reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural environment. While driving is the primary mode of transportation, the long distances to specialized care, the limitations of public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present significant hurdles for asthma patients.

The score emphasizes the need for careful planning, proactive healthcare management, and a realistic assessment of transportation options. For individuals with asthma, living in Buxton requires a commitment to ensuring reliable access to medical care, medication, and emergency services. The Asthma Score serves as a tool for informed decision-making, empowering residents and prospective residents to navigate the transportation landscape and prioritize their respiratory health. The score, therefore, is not simply a number but a comprehensive assessment of the realities of transportation and healthcare access in Buxton, Maine.