04064, Old Orchard Beach, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04064, Old Orchard Beach, Maine is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.77 percent of residents in 04064 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Spring Harbor Hospital with a distance of 9.68 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04064 (Old Orchard Beach, Maine)

This report provides an overall health score assessment for residents of ZIP Code 04064, focusing on the critical aspect of **healthcare access** through **transportation** options. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount to their well-being. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those **moving to Old Orchard Beach** or already residing there.

The health score is not a single number but a composite evaluation, reflecting the accessibility of various healthcare services. Factors considered include the proximity of facilities, the efficiency of available **transportation** methods, and the availability of options for individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial consideration for a community that sees a seasonal influx of residents and visitors, potentially impacting **healthcare access** demands.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary artery for **transportation** in and out of Old Orchard Beach is US Route 1, a major coastal highway. Residents can reach the Southern Maine Health Care (SMHC) Biddeford Medical Center, a significant regional hospital, via US Route 1 North, typically a 15-20 minute drive depending on traffic. Traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist season, can significantly extend this commute, particularly on weekends and holidays.

Another important route is Interstate 95 (I-95), providing faster access to Portland, approximately 20-30 minutes away, where a wider array of specialized medical facilities and hospitals, such as Maine Medical Center, are located. Accessing I-95 requires navigating local roads, including Saco Avenue and Ferry Beach Road, which can experience congestion during peak hours.

Furthermore, access to smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within the town itself is generally straightforward, with drive times typically under 10 minutes. However, the limited scope of services offered by these facilities necessitates travel to larger hospitals for specialized care, potentially impacting the overall health score. The ability to quickly reach these facilities is crucial for timely intervention in emergencies.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

The Greater Portland Metro (METRO) provides limited public transit options within and around Old Orchard Beach. The Route 7 bus serves the town, connecting it to Saco and Biddeford, offering a more affordable **transportation** alternative to driving. However, the frequency of the Route 7 is limited, particularly during off-peak hours and on weekends, making it less convenient for those needing regular medical appointments.

METRO buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, improving **healthcare access** for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the route's coverage is limited, potentially requiring longer walks to and from bus stops, which could be problematic for some patients.

The METRO system provides a connection to the Amtrak Downeaster train service, offering access to Portland and Boston. While this could potentially provide access to a broader range of medical facilities, the train station in Old Orchard Beach is not centrally located, and the overall journey time, including connections, can be lengthy, making it less practical for urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Old Orchard Beach, offering on-demand **transportation** to medical appointments. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or during periods of high demand, such as during the peak tourist season. Surge pricing can also significantly increase the cost of these services, potentially creating a financial barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents.

Specialized medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available. These services are crucial for patients who cannot drive themselves or use public transit. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency appointments. The efficiency of these services is crucial for timely **healthcare access**.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands serve the Old Orchard Beach area. Ambulance services are provided by local fire departments and private companies. NEMT services are offered by various providers, including some national brands and local operators. The specific brands and their service areas can vary.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 04064 is moderate. While the town offers some local healthcare facilities and reasonable drive times to larger hospitals, the reliance on private vehicles for **transportation** and the limitations of public transit create challenges. The seasonal influx of tourists further strains the **transportation** infrastructure and potentially increases demand for medical services.

The availability of ride-sharing services provides some flexibility, but their reliability and cost can be problematic. Specialized medical **transportation** services are available but can be expensive. This necessitates a careful consideration of individual needs and circumstances when assessing **healthcare access**.

To improve the health score, several recommendations are made. Enhancing the frequency and coverage of the METRO bus service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, would significantly improve **healthcare access** for residents without private vehicles. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could help reduce the cost barrier.

Further, the town could explore partnerships with NEMT providers to ensure reliable and affordable **transportation** options for patients with disabilities or limited mobility. Increasing awareness of available **transportation** resources and educating residents about their options are also crucial.

Finally, the development of additional healthcare facilities within Old Orchard Beach, such as a primary care clinic with extended hours, would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for routine medical care. This would improve the overall health score and enhance the quality of life for those **moving to Old Orchard Beach** and existing residents alike. The availability of reliable and affordable **transportation** is a critical factor in ensuring equitable **healthcare access** for all residents.