04267, North Waterford, Maine Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 04267, North Waterford, Maine is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.33 percent of residents in 04267 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stephens Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.73 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04267**

The picturesque town of North Waterford, Maine, nestled in ZIP Code 04267, offers a tranquil escape with stunning natural beauty. However, for those considering a move, particularly individuals managing hypertension, assessing healthcare access is paramount. This analysis explores the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, providing a "Hypertension Score" based on commute times, transportation options, and the availability of medical facilities.

The primary concern is the distance to comprehensive healthcare. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are concentrated in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. The "Hypertension Score" considers this travel time, factoring in the potential stress of commuting, which can directly impact blood pressure.

**Roadways and Drive Times**

The primary artery connecting North Waterford to healthcare hubs is Route 35, a scenic but often winding road. Driving to Stephens Memorial Hospital in Norway, a common destination for medical care, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. This drive, though relatively short, can be stressful during peak hours or inclement weather.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Bridgton Hospital, approximately 35 to 45 minutes away via Route 35 and Route 302. This longer commute increases the "Hypertension Score," as the added travel time and potential for delays can exacerbate anxiety. Further afield, the city of Lewiston, home to Central Maine Medical Center, requires a drive of approximately 50 to 60 minutes, primarily via Route 118 and Route 26. This longer commute significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," particularly for individuals needing frequent appointments or experiencing acute health issues.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The Greater Portland Transit District (METRO) does not extend its services to North Waterford. Local options are virtually non-existent, making public transit a negligible factor in the "Hypertension Score." This lack of public transportation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The "Hypertension Score" reflects this uncertainty, as relying on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments can be risky.

Medical transport services are available, primarily through private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation. These services offer a more reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to personal vehicles. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, impacting the overall "Hypertension Score."

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for North Waterford (ZIP Code 04267) reflects the challenges in healthcare access. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Longer commute times to hospitals and specialized clinics increase the score.
* **Public Transportation:** The absence of public transit significantly elevates the score.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Inconsistent ride-sharing availability adds to the score.
* **Medical Transport Costs:** The cost of medical transport services contributes to the score.
* **Stress of Commuting:** The potential stress of driving, particularly during peak hours or in bad weather, is factored in.

Considering these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for North Waterford is moderate to high. While the drive to Stephens Memorial Hospital is relatively short, the longer commutes to Bridgton Hospital and Lewiston hospitals, coupled with the lack of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, create challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

**Implications for Moving to North Waterford**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to North Waterford, careful consideration of healthcare access is crucial. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of:

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities during the housing search.
* **Transportation Planning:** Developing a reliable transportation plan for medical appointments, including personal vehicles, medical transport services, or reliance on family and friends.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Having a plan in place for emergencies, including knowing the location of the nearest urgent care facilities and hospitals.
* **Lifestyle Considerations:** Recognizing the potential impact of commute-related stress on blood pressure and incorporating stress-reduction techniques into daily life.

**Conclusion**

North Waterford offers a desirable lifestyle with its natural beauty and tranquil setting. However, prospective residents, particularly those with hypertension, must carefully evaluate the healthcare access landscape. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a tool to assess the challenges and inform decision-making, ensuring that healthcare needs are met. By understanding the transportation limitations and planning accordingly, individuals can successfully navigate the healthcare system and enjoy the benefits of living in this beautiful corner of Maine. The importance of healthcare access, especially for those managing chronic conditions, cannot be overstated when considering moving to North Waterford.