04463, Milo, Maine Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 04463, Milo, Maine is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.30 percent of residents in 04463 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Mayo Hospital with a distance of 14.54 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Milo, Maine (ZIP Code 04463)

The picturesque town of Milo, Maine (ZIP code 04463), nestled in the heart of Piscataquis County, offers a tranquil escape. However, the serenity can mask challenges, particularly concerning healthcare access for residents managing conditions like hypertension. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for Milo, focusing on the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services, considering the unique transportation landscape of this rural community.

The "Hypertension Score" is a composite metric reflecting the efficiency and availability of transportation options for accessing healthcare, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. It considers factors like drive times, public transit viability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation resources. The higher the score, the better the access. This analysis is critical for residents managing hypertension, prospective residents considering moving to Milo, and healthcare providers aiming to understand the community's needs.

The primary healthcare provider for Milo residents is Northern Light Mayo Hospital in Dover-Foxcroft, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific location within Milo. The most direct route is via Maine State Route 6 (ME-6), a well-maintained two-lane highway. This drive is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, especially during the harsh Maine winters, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Alternatives to ME-6 exist, such as taking local roads like Park Street or Main Street in Milo to connect to ME-6. However, these routes are typically slower and less direct. Driving to Bangor, the nearest city with more specialized healthcare options, requires a considerably longer journey. The most common route involves ME-6 to Interstate 95 (I-95) south, a drive that can take approximately an hour, depending on traffic.

Public transportation options are limited in Milo. The Piscataquis County Transportation System (PCTS) offers demand-response service. This means residents must schedule rides in advance, often with a 24-hour notice. While PCTS provides transportation to medical appointments, including those at Northern Light Mayo Hospital, availability can be constrained, particularly during peak hours. The service is ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and pre-booking requirements can pose significant hurdles for individuals with acute health needs or those requiring frequent appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are virtually non-existent in Milo. The limited population density and geographic isolation make it economically unfeasible for these companies to operate regularly. This absence severely restricts transportation options, especially for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Medical transportation services are available, though the options are limited. Ambulance services are provided by the town and surrounding communities for emergency situations. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services, which specialize in transporting individuals to medical appointments, may be available through local providers. However, availability and cost can vary significantly. These services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, placing an additional financial burden on individuals managing hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" for Milo reflects the reality of rural healthcare access. While the proximity to Northern Light Mayo Hospital provides a crucial healthcare resource, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create barriers. The lack of ride-sharing services and the potential cost of NEMT further exacerbate the challenges.

Moving to Milo requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Prospective residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and the availability of support services. They should factor in the potential for longer travel times, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of alternative transportation options.

The community can improve the "Hypertension Score" by advocating for expanded public transportation services, exploring partnerships with NEMT providers to reduce costs, and promoting community-based initiatives that support transportation for healthcare access. This could include volunteer driver programs or carpooling initiatives.

Furthermore, healthcare providers in Milo and Dover-Foxcroft can play a critical role by:

* **Telehealth:** Expanding telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments.
* **Patient Education:** Providing comprehensive education on managing hypertension and the available transportation resources.
* **Care Coordination:** Coordinating patient care to minimize the number of appointments and streamline transportation needs.

The "Hypertension Score" for Milo is a dynamic measure. It is influenced by individual circumstances, available resources, and community initiatives. By acknowledging the challenges and actively seeking solutions, Milo can enhance healthcare access and improve the quality of life for all residents, especially those managing hypertension.