04047, Parsonsfield, Maine COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 04047, Parsonsfield, Maine is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

21.76 percent of residents in 04047 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bridgton Hospital with a distance of 22.38 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Parsonsfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04047)**

Parsonsfield, Maine, a town nestled in the heart of York County, presents a unique landscape for residents managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The ability to access healthcare services efficiently is paramount for individuals battling this debilitating respiratory illness. This assessment, the "COPD Score," evaluates the ease of commute to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 04047, considering various transportation options and their accessibility. It aims to provide prospective residents, especially those considering moving to Parsonsfield, with a comprehensive understanding of their healthcare access options.

The cornerstone of any healthcare access analysis is understanding the geographical context. Parsonsfield, while offering a tranquil rural environment, is characterized by its distance from major medical centers. This remoteness necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The primary route for accessing healthcare in the region is via **Route 160**, a winding road that connects Parsonsfield to neighboring towns and eventually intersects with larger highways.

Drive times are a critical factor. The closest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in towns like Sanford and Biddeford. Driving to Southern Maine Health Care in Biddeford, for instance, could take approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey typically involves navigating **Route 160** to **Route 117** and then connecting to **Maine Turnpike (I-95)**, or continuing on **Route 117** to **Route 1** and then to Biddeford.

Similarly, accessing the Goodall Hospital in Sanford would involve a drive of around 30 to 45 minutes. This trip usually entails taking **Route 160** south to **Route 25** and then to Sanford. The drive times can be significantly impacted during peak hours or during inclement weather, potentially creating challenges for individuals with COPD who may experience breathing difficulties.

Public transportation options are limited in Parsonsfield. The availability of buses or other public transit to healthcare facilities is minimal. This lack of robust public transportation poses a significant hurdle for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of regular public transit further emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features of any public transit are important. However, given the lack of public transportation, this is not a major factor.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability and reliability can vary, particularly in rural areas. While ride-sharing offers a potential alternative to driving, the cost and availability might not be consistent, especially for regular medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, potentially creating a financial burden for individuals with COPD who require frequent medical care.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are available. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs to and from healthcare facilities. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may require advance booking.

The overall COPD Score for Parsonsfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04047) reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for ride-sharing and medical transport costs contribute to a moderate score.

For individuals with COPD, the ability to manage their condition often depends on regular access to healthcare. This includes routine check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to medication. The longer commute times and limited transportation options in Parsonsfield can create significant challenges for individuals managing COPD.

The quality of life for individuals with COPD can be significantly impacted by their ability to access healthcare services. Those considering moving to Parsonsfield should carefully evaluate their transportation options and the potential impact on their healthcare access. They should factor in the costs of personal vehicle ownership, ride-sharing, or medical transportation services.

The availability of specialized healthcare services for COPD, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs and respiratory therapists, is another important consideration. Prospective residents should investigate the availability of these services in the region and the ease of access to these services.

The COPD Score is not just about the distance to healthcare facilities. It also considers the overall healthcare infrastructure in the area. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency medical services can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals with COPD.

Parsonsfield, while offering a peaceful and scenic environment, presents challenges for individuals with COPD seeking convenient healthcare access. The limited public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for longer commute times should be carefully considered.

The remoteness of Parsonsfield necessitates careful planning and consideration for individuals with COPD. The availability of alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services, can mitigate some of the challenges.

The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for individuals with COPD considering moving to Parsonsfield. It provides a comprehensive assessment of the transportation options and the potential impact on healthcare access. The score highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration when making decisions about relocating to this rural Maine community.

In conclusion, while Parsonsfield offers a tranquil environment, the COPD Score reveals that healthcare access can be challenging. Prospective residents with COPD should carefully assess their transportation needs, consider the cost of alternative transportation options, and investigate the availability of specialized healthcare services in the region. The information provided in this analysis is designed to empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and quality of life when considering a move to Parsonsfield, Maine.