Overall Health Score

04086, Topsham, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 04086, Topsham, Maine

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04086, Topsham, Maine is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.12 percent of residents in 04086 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mid Coast Hospital with a distance of 4.43 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 04086, Topsham, Maine

Overall Health Score 83
People Score 71
Provider Score 72
Hospital Score 43
Travel Score 59

Closest Hospital - MID COAST HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 04086 Topsham Maine
No Cars 0.66 0.66 2.13
1 Car 19.15 19.15 18.39
2 Cars 45.12 45.12 45.49
3 or More Cars 35.07 35.07 34.00

Vehicular Access in 04086, Topsham, Maine

Travel Score Review of 04086, Topsham, Maine

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04086 (Topsham, Maine)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access within ZIP code 04086, focusing on the crucial aspect of transportation. It assesses the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering various modes of transport, including private vehicles, public transit, and ride-sharing options. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families contemplating moving to Topsham, Maine, and seeking a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility.

The score will consider drive times, public transportation availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Topsham is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town’s layout and the distribution of medical facilities necessitate driving for most residents. The primary routes for accessing healthcare are well-maintained, but traffic congestion can impact drive times, particularly during peak hours.

The primary artery for travel is **U.S. Route 1**, which provides direct access to Brunswick and its healthcare facilities. Drive times to these facilities are generally short, ranging from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. **Interstate 295** offers a faster route to Portland, but this option adds mileage and potential tolls.

For those seeking specialized care or facilities outside of Brunswick, travel times can increase significantly. The journey to Portland, for instance, can take upwards of 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Rural roads and secondary routes such as **Maine State Route 196** and **Maine State Route 24** offer alternative paths but can be slower due to lower speed limits and potential for seasonal hazards.

The condition of the roads is generally good, with regular maintenance. However, winter weather can pose challenges, potentially increasing travel times and creating hazardous conditions. Residents should be prepared for these seasonal variations and plan accordingly, especially when commuting for healthcare appointments.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Topsham are limited but provide a vital service for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. The **Brunswick Explorer**, operated by the Greater Portland Transit District (GPTD), offers bus service to Brunswick, providing access to healthcare facilities in that town.

The Brunswick Explorer operates on a fixed-route schedule, with varying frequencies depending on the time of day and day of the week. While this service offers a cost-effective alternative to driving, it has limitations. The routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, requiring passengers to walk or use ride-sharing services for the final leg of their journey.

The accessibility of the Brunswick Explorer is enhanced by its adherence to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, and routes are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and potential for longer travel times may still pose challenges for some users.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Topsham area, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who need to travel to healthcare appointments and do not have access to a personal vehicle.

However, the availability of ride-sharing services can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Surge pricing may also increase the cost of these services, making them less affordable for some residents.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offering door-to-door service and accommodating individuals with mobility limitations.

Several NEMT providers operate in the Topsham area, including local and regional companies. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of NEMT services can vary depending on the distance traveled and the level of assistance required.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare facilities in and around Topsham is a key factor in determining healthcare access. The town itself has several primary care providers, including family physicians and internal medicine specialists. These facilities provide essential medical services and serve as a gateway to more specialized care.

For more specialized treatments, residents often travel to Brunswick or Portland. These cities offer a wider range of healthcare services, including hospitals, specialist clinics, and diagnostic centers. The proximity of these facilities is a significant advantage for Topsham residents.

The overall healthcare access score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare insurance. Residents with health insurance have greater access to medical services, as their costs are often covered or subsidized. The availability of affordable health insurance options is a crucial factor in promoting healthcare access for all residents.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP code 04086 is moderately positive. While the availability of healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas is good, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges.

Drive times to healthcare facilities in Brunswick are generally short, but travel to Portland and other specialized facilities can be more time-consuming. Public transportation options are available but have limitations in terms of frequency and route coverage. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative, but their availability can be variable. Medical transport services provide essential support for individuals with mobility limitations.

The overall score reflects the need for residents to carefully consider their transportation options when accessing healthcare. Individuals without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations may face greater challenges in accessing medical services.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Topsham, several recommendations can be considered. Expanding public transportation options, including increased frequency and route coverage, would improve access for those without personal vehicles. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services and providing subsidies for transportation costs could also enhance access.

Further investment in road infrastructure and traffic management could reduce drive times and improve the efficiency of travel. Collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community organizations could facilitate the development of innovative solutions to improve healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Topsham, it is essential to assess their personal transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Researching the availability of healthcare facilities, public transportation options, and ride-sharing services is crucial. Understanding the potential challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access can help residents make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

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Health Scores Near 04086, Topsham, Maine

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Health Scores in 04086, Topsham, Maine