04220, Buckfield, Maine COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 04220, Buckfield, Maine is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.44 percent of residents in 04220 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stephens Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.65 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Buckfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04220)

Buckfield, Maine, nestled in the heart of Oxford County, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The rural nature of the area, while offering scenic beauty and a slower pace of life, significantly impacts **healthcare access**, especially concerning **transportation**. This write-up analyzes the **COPD Score** for residents of ZIP code 04220, evaluating the ease of commuting to healthcare facilities, considering various modes of **transportation** and their associated challenges. It's a crucial factor for anyone **moving to Buckfield**, especially those with respiratory ailments.

The primary consideration for a COPD Score in Buckfield revolves around drive times. The closest major healthcare facilities are located in Lewiston and Auburn, approximately 20 to 30 miles away. These towns boast larger hospitals and specialized pulmonary care. The primary route to these facilities involves navigating Route 117, a two-lane road that can experience congestion, particularly during peak hours and adverse weather conditions. Route 117 then merges onto Route 26, which offers a more direct path, and eventually, the Maine Turnpike (I-95) provides the quickest access to Lewiston and Auburn.

The drive from Buckfield to Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, accessing St. Mary's Regional Medical Center in Lewiston or the Auburn-based Maine Medical Partners practices, requires a similar timeframe. The time spent on the road is a critical factor for COPD patients, as prolonged exposure to pollutants within a vehicle, combined with the physical exertion of driving, can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

Public **transportation** options in Buckfield are limited. The Greater Portland Transit District (METRO) does not extend service to this area. The primary public transit option is the Oxford County Transportation (OCT) program. OCT offers demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While this service provides a lifeline for those without private vehicles, it can be unreliable, especially for urgent medical appointments.

The OCT service operates with limited ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features. While the fleet includes vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices, the availability of these vehicles is subject to demand and scheduling. The scheduling process itself can be a barrier, requiring advance planning and coordination, which may not be feasible for unexpected health needs. The limited service area and infrequent routes add to the challenge.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Lewiston-Auburn area, but their presence in Buckfield is sporadic. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be particularly challenging during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing can be expensive, especially for frequent medical appointments, and the wait times can be unpredictable, potentially causing delays and stress for COPD patients.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, are available for patients requiring specialized assistance. However, these services are typically reserved for emergencies or patients who cannot safely travel by other means. The cost of medical **transportation** can be substantial, and the availability of these services is dependent on the patient's insurance coverage and the severity of their condition.

The COPD Score for Buckfield, therefore, reflects the challenges associated with accessing healthcare. The reliance on private vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertainties of ride-sharing create significant barriers for individuals managing COPD. The drive times, the potential for traffic congestion, and the lack of readily available **transportation** alternatives contribute to a lower score.

The impact of these challenges extends beyond the physical act of commuting. The stress of planning **transportation**, the potential for delays, and the financial burden of relying on private vehicles or medical **transportation** can negatively impact a COPD patient's overall well-being. The constant worry about accessing healthcare can lead to increased anxiety, which, in turn, can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

For individuals considering **moving to Buckfield** with COPD, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is crucial. Factors to consider include the availability of reliable personal **transportation**, the ability to navigate the roads, and the financial resources to cover the costs of **transportation** to healthcare appointments. The distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the potential for unexpected delays should be carefully evaluated.

The **COPD Score** for Buckfield, while not a quantifiable metric, highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness for individuals managing COPD. The availability of support networks, the ability to coordinate appointments with healthcare providers, and the development of contingency plans for unexpected medical needs are essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare.

In conclusion, while Buckfield offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the **transportation** challenges associated with accessing healthcare significantly impact the quality of life for COPD patients. The need for reliable **transportation**, the limited public transit options, and the potential for delays create a complex landscape that requires careful consideration for those seeking to reside in this rural community. The **COPD Score** reflects the need for comprehensive planning and resourcefulness to ensure that individuals with COPD can receive the timely and effective care they need.