04928, Corinna, Maine Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 04928, Corinna, Maine is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.83 percent of residents in 04928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Hospital with a distance of 12.04 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04928 (Corinna, Maine)**

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially for those managing hypertension, demands careful consideration of accessibility. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 04928, encompassing Corinna, Maine, and evaluates transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for consistent medical care. The aim is to provide a "Hypertension Score," a composite assessment of commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation services, all vital components of healthcare access. This information is particularly pertinent for individuals considering moving to Corinna and seeking optimal healthcare management.

Corinna, a rural community, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary mode of transport is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare providers are therefore a significant factor. The major roadways impacting healthcare access are Interstate 95 (I-95), US Route 2, and Maine State Route 7.

The nearest hospitals are in Bangor, approximately 35 miles east, and Waterville, roughly 45 miles southwest. Driving to Bangor via I-95 typically takes 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. The route involves entering I-95 from Route 7 or local roads. Travel to Waterville, utilizing Route 2 and potentially Route 201, can take 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. These drive times can be taxing for individuals with hypertension, especially during emergencies or routine check-ups.

Local clinics and primary care physicians are located in neighboring towns like Dexter and Newport. Travel to Dexter, approximately 10 miles north via Route 7, typically takes 15-20 minutes. Newport, about 15 miles south via Route 7, offers a similar drive time. These shorter commutes are advantageous for frequent visits.

Public transportation options are limited in rural Maine. The Penquis Transportation System provides demand-response transportation services within Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Waldo counties. While this service *could* potentially offer rides to medical appointments, it is not a fixed-route system. Riders must schedule rides in advance, and availability is not guaranteed, especially during peak hours. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, catering to individuals with disabilities. However, the inherent scheduling complexities and potential for delays necessitate careful planning.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are sporadically available in the area. Their presence is not consistent, and their availability is subject to driver availability and demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore unreliable.

Medical transport services, like LifeFlight of Maine, are primarily for emergency situations. They are not a viable option for routine hypertension management.

For individuals with hypertension in Corinna, the "Hypertension Score" reflects a mixed picture. While local clinics offer relatively short drive times, access to specialized care and hospitals necessitates longer commutes. The lack of reliable public transportation and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access. The score is therefore negatively impacted by these factors.

The "Hypertension Score" is a subjective assessment. It considers the following:

* **Drive Times:** Longer drive times to hospitals and specialized care negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transportation:** The lack of a reliable public transit system lowers the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Inconsistent ride-sharing availability reduces the score.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability of emergency medical transport is a positive factor, but does not address the need for routine care.

The score is likely to be moderate, reflecting a situation where healthcare access is possible, but requires careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles.

For individuals considering moving to Corinna, this analysis highlights the importance of factoring in transportation when evaluating healthcare access. Proximity to local clinics is a positive, but the need for longer commutes to hospitals and specialized care should be considered.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a definitive rating, but a guide to understanding the transportation challenges. It underscores the importance of proactive healthcare management, including regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments.

Individuals with hypertension who reside in or are planning to move to Corinna should:

* Establish a primary care physician close to their residence.
* Develop a transportation plan, including backup options for medical appointments.
* Consider the availability of family members or friends who can provide transportation.
* Familiarize themselves with the Penquis Transportation System and ride-sharing options.
* Be prepared for longer travel times to access specialized care.
* Ensure they have adequate medication refills and access to emergency medical services.

The overall assessment of transportation and healthcare access in ZIP Code 04928 reveals a need for careful planning and resourcefulness. While the community offers certain advantages, such as local clinics, the limitations in public transit and ride-sharing necessitate proactive measures to ensure consistent access to quality healthcare, especially for those managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" reflects these complexities, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing transportation when considering healthcare needs in Corinna, Maine.