04694, Baileyville, Maine Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 04694, Baileyville, Maine is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.33 percent of residents in 04694 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Down East Community Hospital with a distance of 28.07 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in Baileyville, Maine (ZIP Code 04694)

Baileyville, Maine, a town nestled along the St. Croix River, offers a tranquil existence, drawing those seeking a slower pace. However, when considering a move, particularly for individuals managing asthma, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 04694, examining commute times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all crucial factors influencing healthcare access.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is swift access to medical care during an exacerbation. Therefore, the distance and ease of transportation to healthcare facilities become critical. The nearest hospital, Calais Regional Hospital, is approximately 15 miles from Baileyville. The journey predominantly involves navigating Route 1, a major artery connecting coastal Maine towns. Traffic on Route 1 is generally light, but seasonal variations, particularly during the summer tourist season, can impact drive times.

The drive to Calais Regional Hospital typically takes around 20-25 minutes under normal conditions. However, a sudden asthma attack demands immediate attention. Delays, even of a few minutes, can be detrimental. Therefore, individuals with asthma should factor in potential traffic congestion when assessing their healthcare access. Alternative routes are limited, primarily consisting of smaller, less maintained roads, potentially adding to the travel time and increasing the risk of encountering potholes or other road hazards.

Public transportation options in Washington County, including Baileyville, are limited. The Downeast Transportation, a regional transit provider, offers fixed-route and demand-response services. However, the frequency of these routes is limited, and they may not directly serve Calais Regional Hospital from Baileyville. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, which can sometimes accompany severe asthma attacks. Prospective residents should contact Downeast Transportation directly to confirm route schedules, accessibility features, and any specific requirements for medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are sporadically available in the area. Their presence is not guaranteed, and their availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical transportation is risky. The response time can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather. Individuals considering moving to Baileyville and managing asthma should not solely depend on these services for healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transportation, are available in the region. These services, such as LifeFlight of Maine (for air transport in emergencies), offer scheduled and on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and may not be immediately available in case of a sudden asthma exacerbation. Costs can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific service provider. Researching and contacting these services in advance is crucial for individuals with asthma.

The location of pharmacies is also a key factor in healthcare access. Baileyville has local pharmacies, but their operating hours and the availability of specific asthma medications should be verified. Having a reliable pharmacy close by is essential for refilling prescriptions and accessing emergency medications like inhalers.

The "Asthma Score" for Baileyville, Maine (04694) reflects a mixed picture. While the drive to the nearest hospital is relatively short, the limitations in public transit, the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on pre-booked medical transport services present challenges for individuals managing asthma. The lack of readily available, on-demand transportation options can be a significant concern, particularly during an asthma attack.

Considering a move to Baileyville requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. Individuals with asthma should proactively investigate the availability of medical transport services, establish relationships with local pharmacies, and explore the feasibility of personal vehicles or relying on family and friends for transportation.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Baileyville, Maine, is moderately impacted by the transportation landscape. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in healthcare access, particularly in terms of readily available transportation, necessitate careful planning and proactive measures for individuals with asthma. The availability of healthcare access can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals managing asthma.