04564, Round Pond, Maine Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 04564, Round Pond, Maine is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.57 percent of residents in 04564 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lincolnhealth with a distance of 7.34 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Round Pond, Maine (ZIP Code 04564)

Round Pond, Maine, a picturesque coastal village in ZIP code 04564, offers a serene lifestyle, attracting those seeking respite from urban clamor. However, its idyllic setting presents unique challenges concerning healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment for residents needing regular medical attention, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Round Pond, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the practicalities of accessing essential healthcare services, including primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency care. It factors in the time and effort required to reach these resources, recognizing that consistent and reliable transportation is vital for managing hypertension effectively. The score aims to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities within the 04564 ZIP code.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Round Pond is the personal vehicle. The scenic Route 32, known locally as Bristol Road, serves as the main artery connecting Round Pond to neighboring towns and healthcare facilities. A drive to Damariscotta, the nearest town with a hospital (LincolnHealth – Miles Campus) and a range of medical practices, typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Heading south, Route 32 merges with Route 130, offering access to more distant medical facilities in Pemaquid and New Harbor. These drives are generally shorter, about 10-15 minutes, but the availability of specialized care might be limited.

For those needing specialized services, the drive to Mid Coast Hospital in Brunswick, a more comprehensive facility, requires a longer journey. This involves taking Route 1 to Brunswick, a trip that can take approximately an hour, depending on traffic. The drive time underscores the importance of planning and considering potential delays, particularly for those with hypertension.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility**

Public transportation options in the 04564 ZIP code are extremely limited. The availability of buses is scarce, and schedules are often infrequent, making them impractical for regular medical appointments. There is no dedicated public transit system serving Round Pond directly.

The lack of accessible public transit significantly impacts individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. This lack of options creates a significant barrier to healthcare access, potentially exacerbating the challenges of managing hypertension.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but their availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability poses a significant risk for those needing scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. Companies like MedStar and SeniorCare provide specialized transportation services, often with wheelchair accessibility and trained staff. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to personal transportation. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

**Pharmacies: Access to Medication**

Access to pharmacies is crucial for managing hypertension. Round Pond itself has limited pharmacy options. Residents typically rely on pharmacies in Damariscotta, such as Hannaford Pharmacy or Walgreens, requiring a 15-20-minute drive. This necessitates careful planning for medication refills and the potential need for transportation assistance.

**Emergency Services: Critical Considerations**

Emergency medical services (EMS) are available in Round Pond. The Bristol Fire Department provides emergency medical response, and ambulance services are available to transport patients to the nearest hospital. However, the response time and the distance to the hospital are critical factors in emergency situations, particularly for those with cardiovascular conditions.

**Hypertension Score Assessment**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP code 04564 is **moderate to challenging**. While the proximity to Damariscotta offers relatively quick access to primary care and basic medical services, the limited public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the longer distances to specialized care and comprehensive facilities pose significant challenges.

The score reflects the need for individuals with hypertension to rely heavily on personal vehicles, pre-planned transportation solutions, and potentially, the support of family or friends. The absence of robust public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create a vulnerability for those without access to personal transportation.

**Recommendations for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For current residents managing hypertension, proactive planning is essential. This includes:

* **Establishing a reliable transportation plan:** This could involve relying on family, friends, medical transport services, or a combination of options.
* **Scheduling appointments strategically:** Grouping appointments to minimize travel time and coordinating medication refills.
* **Maintaining a well-stocked home pharmacy:** Ensuring a sufficient supply of medications and necessary medical supplies.
* **Staying informed about local transportation resources:** Regularly checking for updates on ride-sharing availability and medical transport services.

For individuals considering moving to Round Pond, especially those with hypertension or other chronic conditions, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. This includes:

* **Evaluating the proximity to healthcare facilities:** Considering the drive times to primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals.
* **Assessing the availability of transportation assistance:** Determining the feasibility of relying on family, friends, or medical transport services.
* **Factoring in the cost of transportation:** Considering the expenses associated with personal vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.
* **Understanding the limitations of public transit:** Recognizing the lack of readily available public transportation options.

**Conclusion**

Living in Round Pond, Maine, offers a unique lifestyle, but healthcare access presents specific challenges. Understanding the transportation landscape, as detailed in this "Hypertension Score" write-up, is crucial for managing hypertension effectively. By proactively planning transportation, leveraging available resources, and considering the limitations of the local infrastructure, residents and prospective movers can navigate the healthcare system and maintain their health and well-being in this beautiful coastal community. The key to successful healthcare access lies in careful planning, resourcefulness, and a commitment to proactive health management.