04090, Wells, Maine Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 04090, Wells, Maine is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.05 percent of residents in 04090 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Spring Harbor Hospital with a distance of 26.80 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wells, Maine (ZIP Code 04090)

The decision to relocate, particularly to a charming coastal town like Wells, Maine (ZIP Code 04090), often involves a complex calculus. Beyond the allure of sandy beaches and quaint shops lies the practical consideration of healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, a critical health condition, understanding the ease of reaching medical care becomes paramount. This write-up aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, examining the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access within and around Wells.

The core of this assessment revolves around the practicalities of commuting to healthcare facilities. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, all crucial elements in determining the ease with which individuals can access necessary medical attention. This analysis is especially vital for prospective residents considering moving to Wells, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

Wells, nestled in Southern Maine, is primarily served by personal vehicles. The primary artery for travel is **U.S. Route 1**, a bustling thoroughfare that winds its way through the town, connecting it to neighboring communities and larger healthcare hubs. Traffic on Route 1 can vary significantly, especially during peak tourist seasons, potentially impacting drive times to medical appointments.

Another significant road is **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, offering a faster route for those traveling north or south. Access to I-95 from Wells is relatively straightforward, with several on-ramps available. However, the interstate can also experience heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour and on weekends.

The town itself is traversed by a network of local roads, including **Webhannet Drive**, **Mile Road**, and **Post Road**, which provide access to residential areas and local businesses. These roads can be subject to congestion, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in the Hypertension Score. The closest primary care physicians and specialists are generally located within Wells itself or in neighboring towns like Ogunquit and Kennebunk. A trip to a local clinic within Wells might take 5-15 minutes, depending on the location and traffic conditions.

For more specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, residents might need to travel to York Hospital in York, Maine, or to facilities in Portland, Maine. The drive to York Hospital, approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 1 or I-95, is generally manageable. However, a trip to Portland, a larger city with a wider range of specialists, could take 45 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic.

Public transportation options in Wells are limited. The **Shuttle Bus Service** provides local transportation, with routes that may connect to some medical facilities. However, the frequency of service can be limited, and routes may not directly serve all healthcare locations.

The **York CountyYork County Community Action Corporation (YCCAC)** offers transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, including rides to medical appointments. These services are often demand-response, requiring advance booking. It is important to note that ADA-compliant features are available on public transit vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Wells, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be risky, as wait times and driver availability are unpredictable.

Medical transportation services, such as **Careline Ambulance** and **Atlantic Ambulance**, are available for patients who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions. These services are typically reserved for individuals who cannot safely travel by other means.

The Hypertension Score for Wells, Maine, is thus influenced by several factors. While the town offers convenient access to local clinics and primary care physicians, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges for individuals without access to a car or those who are unable to drive. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and medical transportation services are primarily for those with specific needs.

For individuals managing hypertension, the drive times to specialized care in York or Portland should be considered. The potential for traffic delays, especially during peak seasons, could add to the stress and inconvenience of accessing medical appointments.

The overall score suggests that healthcare access in Wells, Maine, is moderately accessible for individuals managing hypertension. Those with access to a personal vehicle and the ability to drive will likely find it easier to navigate the transportation landscape. However, individuals who rely on public transportation or ride-sharing may face greater challenges, particularly when accessing specialized care.

Moving to Wells requires a thoughtful assessment of healthcare access. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options should be carefully considered, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers, assess their transportation needs, and explore available options to ensure they can access the medical care they require.