04547, Friendship, Maine Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 04547, Friendship, Maine is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.42 percent of residents in 04547 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincolnhealth with a distance of 10.22 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Friendship, Maine (ZIP Code 04547)

The salty air and rugged beauty of Friendship, Maine, in ZIP code 04547, offer a unique allure. But for individuals managing asthma, the realities of **healthcare access** can significantly impact their quality of life. This write-up analyzes the **transportation** landscape, offering an "Asthma Score" assessment of how easily residents can reach vital medical care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for anyone considering **moving to Friendship**, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities.

Friendship, a small coastal community, presents a distinct set of challenges. The town’s remoteness influences every aspect of life, including the availability and accessibility of medical services. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in neighboring towns, necessitating travel. This necessitates a careful examination of the **transportation** options available, considering the potential impact of weather, traffic, and individual health limitations.

The primary mode of travel within and beyond Friendship is by car. The main artery connecting the town to larger population centers is Route 131, a scenic but winding road that eventually intersects with Route 1, the primary coastal highway. Driving times to essential healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in our Asthma Score.

The Miles Memorial Hospital in Damariscotta, approximately 25 miles away, is a vital resource. A drive to Miles Memorial typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Route 131 to Route 1 is the standard route. During peak tourist season, especially summer weekends, traffic can significantly increase travel times. The urgency of an asthma exacerbation makes this delay a critical consideration.

Further afield, the Pen Bay Medical Center in Rockport, roughly 35 miles away, offers a broader range of specialized care. The journey to Pen Bay necessitates traveling on Route 131 to Route 1 and then south. This drive can take upwards of an hour, potentially longer during periods of heavy traffic or inclement weather. The extended travel time adds another layer of complexity for individuals with asthma.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Friendship. The Island Explorer bus system, which serves Acadia National Park and surrounding areas, does not extend to Friendship. The local bus service is practically non-existent. This absence of public **transportation** is a significant drawback for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. This deficiency directly impacts the Asthma Score, as it restricts access to medical care for those without personal vehicles.

The absence of robust public **transportation** underscores the importance of exploring alternative options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability in Friendship is questionable. The availability of drivers can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. This unreliability poses a considerable challenge for individuals with asthma who may require immediate medical attention.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), are available, but their utilization requires careful consideration. Ambulance services are reserved for emergencies, while NEMT services can provide scheduled **transportation** to medical appointments. However, these services often require prior arrangements and can be expensive. The reliance on these services further complicates the **healthcare access** equation.

Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are a critical component of the Asthma Score. While the local medical facilities are generally compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the **transportation** options themselves may present challenges. The limited availability of accessible vehicles within ride-sharing services and the potential for long wait times for NEMT services can create significant barriers.

The Asthma Score for Friendship, Maine, is thus negatively impacted by several factors. The remoteness of the town, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for extended travel times to reach medical facilities create additional challenges.

The weather, especially during winter, further exacerbates the situation. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, increasing travel times and the risk of accidents. This is a particularly important consideration for individuals with asthma, as exposure to cold air can trigger bronchospasms.

The Asthma Score is not static; it is influenced by individual circumstances and resources. Individuals with reliable personal vehicles, access to family or friends for **transportation**, or the financial means to utilize medical **transportation** services may experience fewer challenges. However, for those without these advantages, **healthcare access** can be a significant hurdle.

To improve the Asthma Score, the community could explore several initiatives. Supporting the expansion of public **transportation** options, including the potential for a local shuttle service, would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to ensure the availability of accessible vehicles and reliable service would also be advantageous.

The development of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could improve **healthcare access** for individuals with asthma. Telehealth could reduce the need for frequent travel and provide timely medical advice.

The Asthma Score for Friendship reflects the realities of living in a rural community. While the natural beauty and tranquility are undeniable, the challenges of **healthcare access** must be carefully considered. For those contemplating **moving to Friendship**, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and resources is essential. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape, plan for potential emergencies, and access reliable medical care are crucial for successfully managing asthma in this coastal community.