04966, Phillips, Maine Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 04966, Phillips, Maine is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.93 percent of residents in 04966 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 17.71 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in Phillips, Maine (ZIP Code 04966)**

The quaint town of Phillips, Maine, nestled in the heart of Franklin County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. Yet, for residents managing hypertension, the availability and accessibility of healthcare, particularly concerning transportation, become critical factors. This report, the “Hypertension Score,” evaluates the ease of reaching medical facilities from ZIP code 04966, considering various transportation options, with a focus on timely access for those with health concerns.

Phillips, a community of approximately 1,000 residents, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The town’s rural nature and limited public transportation options necessitate a deep dive into the realities of navigating the landscape. This is particularly important for individuals who may face mobility limitations or other health issues, such as those with hypertension.

**Driving Times and Road Conditions**

The primary mode of transportation in Phillips is the personal vehicle. The drive to the nearest primary care facilities, Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington, is approximately 20 miles. This journey, primarily via Route 4 and Route 2, typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Route 4, a two-lane highway, is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times. Route 2, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers a more direct route, though it can experience heavier traffic, especially during peak hours.

Specialist appointments often require longer drives. For example, accessing specialized cardiology services in Bangor, a drive of approximately 100 miles, takes about two hours, primarily using I-95. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent check-ups and monitoring.

The condition of local roads, including secondary routes like Reeds Mill Road and Pleasant Street, can also influence travel times. Potholes and uneven surfaces can exacerbate discomfort for those with mobility issues or those experiencing high blood pressure. Careful planning and consideration of road conditions are essential.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation in Phillips is limited. The Greater Franklin County Public Transportation (GFC Transportation) offers a demand-response service. This means residents must schedule rides in advance, which can be challenging for urgent medical needs. The service operates within Franklin County, including routes to Farmington and surrounding towns.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility impairments. GFC Transportation strives to provide accessible options, but availability may be limited, and advance booking is essential. Route numbers are not applicable, as the service operates on a demand-response basis, rather than fixed routes.

The lack of a regular bus service highlights the reliance on personal vehicles or other forms of transportation. This underscores the importance of considering alternative options for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Phillips. The sparse population and rural location make it economically unfeasible for these services to operate. This absence creates a significant barrier for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals needing assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically involve pre-scheduled rides to and from medical appointments.

Examples of NEMT providers that serve the Franklin County area include NorthStar EMS, and Med-Ride. These companies offer door-to-door service and often accommodate individuals with mobility aids. However, availability and scheduling can be a challenge, and advance booking is essential.

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

The "Hypertension Score" for Phillips, 04966, reflects the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. The score considers factors such as drive times, public transportation availability, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

For residents with hypertension, timely access to medical care is paramount. The score takes into account the potential delays caused by long drive times, the limited public transportation options, and the reliance on pre-scheduled medical transportation.

The score aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This is especially important for individuals considering moving to Phillips, or those seeking to understand the implications of their current living situation.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Improving healthcare access in Phillips requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation options, including fixed-route bus services, could significantly benefit residents. Collaboration between local healthcare providers, transportation services, and community organizations is essential.

Promoting awareness of available medical transportation services and educating residents on how to access them is crucial. Supporting initiatives that encourage telehealth and remote patient monitoring can also help reduce the burden of travel for individuals with hypertension.

For those considering moving to Phillips, careful consideration of transportation options and healthcare access is essential. Assessing the availability of medical services, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the feasibility of various transportation modes is critical.

**Conclusion**

The "Hypertension Score" for Phillips, 04966, reveals a complex picture. While the town offers a tranquil setting, the challenges of healthcare access, particularly concerning transportation, cannot be overlooked. By understanding the limitations and seeking solutions, the community can strive to improve healthcare access for all residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The journey to healthcare in Phillips, Maine, requires careful planning, but with the right resources and support, residents can navigate the landscape and access the care they need.