04074, Scarborough, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04074, Scarborough, Maine is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.23 percent of residents in 04074 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Spring Harbor Hospital with a distance of 4.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Scarborough, ME (ZIP Code 04074)

The overall health score for residents of Scarborough, Maine (ZIP code 04074) is significantly influenced by their ability to access healthcare. A critical component of this access is the ease and efficiency of transportation. This write-up delves into the various modes of transportation available, evaluating their impact on healthcare access and providing a comprehensive understanding for individuals considering moving to Scarborough.

Scarborough, a picturesque coastal town, enjoys a reputation for its quality of life. However, its geographical layout and the distribution of healthcare facilities necessitate a careful examination of transportation options. The town's relatively low population density, while contributing to its charm, can present challenges in terms of public transit and the availability of ride-sharing services.

**Driving: The Dominant Mode**

For most Scarborough residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The town is strategically positioned near major roadways, including the Maine Turnpike (I-95), which provides rapid north-south access. US Route 1, a scenic coastal highway, also serves as a crucial artery, connecting Scarborough to neighboring towns and cities.

Accessing healthcare facilities in Portland, the region's healthcare hub, typically involves utilizing the Maine Turnpike. The drive to Maine Medical Center, the largest hospital in the state, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, driving to Mercy Hospital, another major medical center, usually takes around 20 to 35 minutes.

Within Scarborough, accessing local medical offices and urgent care facilities is generally straightforward. The town's internal road network, including roads like Payne Road and Gorham Road, facilitates easy navigation. However, during peak hours, traffic congestion can occur, particularly near commercial areas and intersections.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Scarborough are limited, posing a potential barrier to healthcare access for some residents. The Greater Portland Metro provides bus service, but its routes within Scarborough are infrequent, and the coverage is not comprehensive. Route 7, for example, provides service along US Route 1, connecting Scarborough to Portland and other surrounding communities.

The frequency of bus service on Route 7 is typically hourly or less frequent, especially during evenings and weekends. This can make it challenging for residents to schedule appointments and return home promptly. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, is crucial for individuals with disabilities. Metro buses are generally equipped with these features, but the limited service frequency can still create accessibility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. However, the availability of these services in Scarborough can fluctuate, and surge pricing during peak demand periods can make them expensive.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from healthcare appointments, provide a valuable service for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, including Care Ambulance and Northeast Transportation. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Travel Times**

Several healthcare facilities are readily accessible from Scarborough. The drive times provided below are approximate and can vary based on traffic and the specific location within Scarborough:

* **Maine Medical Center (Portland):** 15-30 minutes via I-95.
* **Mercy Hospital (Portland):** 20-35 minutes via I-95.
* **Scarborough Family Medicine:** 5-15 minutes, depending on location within Scarborough.
* **ConvenientMD Urgent Care (Scarborough):** 5-10 minutes.
* **Southern Maine Health Care (Biddeford):** 20-30 minutes via US Route 1.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Perspective**

Healthcare access extends beyond simply the availability of transportation. It encompasses factors such as the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of specialists, and the cost of care. While Scarborough benefits from its proximity to Portland's comprehensive healthcare system, residents must navigate the transportation challenges to fully realize this advantage.

The accessibility of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within Scarborough itself is crucial. The town has a good selection of primary care providers, but access to specialized services may require travel to Portland or other nearby cities.

**Moving to Scarborough: Transportation Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Scarborough, a careful assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should factor in the limited bus service and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation.

Owning a vehicle provides the greatest flexibility and convenience for accessing healthcare facilities. However, residents should be aware of potential traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Scarborough (ZIP code 04074) is moderately favorable. While the town benefits from its proximity to Portland's healthcare resources, the limited public transportation options and potential reliance on driving create some challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provides additional support, but their cost and availability can be limiting factors. The town's internal road network facilitates easy access to local medical offices and urgent care facilities.

**Recommendations**

* **Advocate for enhanced public transportation:** Increased frequency and expanded routes for the Greater Portland Metro bus service within Scarborough would significantly improve healthcare access for residents.
* **Promote ride-sharing accessibility:** Encouraging the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services would benefit those without vehicles.
* **Enhance pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure:** Improving pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, especially near healthcare facilities, would promote healthier transportation options.
* **Support medical transportation services:** Ensuring the availability and affordability of medical transportation services is vital for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Educate residents:** Providing clear information about available transportation options, including public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, would empower residents to make informed choices.

By addressing these recommendations, Scarborough can further enhance its overall health score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. The town's commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and promoting accessible healthcare services will contribute to its continued appeal as a desirable place to live.