04219, Bryant Pond, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04219, Bryant Pond, Maine is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.79 percent of residents in 04219 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rumford Hospital with a distance of 11.48 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04219 (Bryant Pond, Maine)**

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Bryant Pond, Maine (ZIP code 04219), requires a comprehensive evaluation of their access to healthcare. This analysis considers the various modes of **transportation** available, the time it takes to reach medical facilities, and the availability of specialized services. This is particularly crucial for anyone **moving to Bryant Pond**, as the remoteness of the area presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding **healthcare access**.

The primary factor impacting healthcare access in 04219 is the geographical isolation. Bryant Pond is a small, rural community nestled in Oxford County, Maine. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This remoteness significantly influences the overall health score, as it directly affects the speed and ease with which residents can receive medical attention.

Driving is the most common method of **transportation** for accessing healthcare in this area. The primary routes used are Route 26, Route 2, and Route 140. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to weather conditions, especially during the harsh Maine winters. The drive to Stephens Memorial Hospital in Norway, the closest hospital, is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. However, accessing more specialized care, such as that offered at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, can take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, involving travel on Route 26 and then Route 4. These travel times can be critical in emergency situations, highlighting the importance of prompt and reliable access to medical services.

Public **transportation** options are limited in the 04219 area. Oxford County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. The availability of public transit to access medical facilities is thus minimal. This lack of public transit disproportionately affects those who cannot drive, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those without personal vehicles.

While public **transportation** is limited, there are some options for those needing assistance. Oxford County offers a demand-response transit service, but it is not designed for regular commutes to medical appointments. This service requires advanced booking and may not be available for urgent medical needs. This further emphasizes the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent and availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This lack of reliability further complicates **healthcare access**. The reliance on ride-sharing can also be expensive, adding to the financial burden of seeking medical care.

Medical **transportation** services are available in the area, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport. These services are essential for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have medical conditions that make driving unsafe. However, the availability of these services can be impacted by staffing levels and the geographical distance to the nearest medical facilities.

The availability of specialized medical services in the area is also a critical factor in the overall health score. While Stephens Memorial Hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and some specialty services, residents often need to travel to larger medical centers for more specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures. This travel adds to the time and cost of accessing healthcare.

The presence of telehealth services can mitigate some of the challenges associated with geographical isolation. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on factors such as internet access, the patient's comfort with technology, and the type of medical care required.

The overall health score for residents of 04219 is moderately impacted by the challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. While the community has access to essential medical services, the remoteness of the area, limited public **transportation**, and reliance on personal vehicles or less reliable ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The drive times to specialized medical facilities, the potential for weather-related delays, and the limited availability of alternative **transportation** options all contribute to a lower score.

For those **moving to Bryant Pond**, it is crucial to consider the implications of these factors. Individuals with chronic medical conditions, those who require frequent medical appointments, or those without access to a personal vehicle should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare before relocating.

The community could improve its overall health score by investing in improved public **transportation** options, expanding telehealth services, and exploring partnerships with medical **transportation** providers. Increased awareness of available resources, such as the demand-response transit service and medical **transportation** options, could also improve **healthcare access** for residents.

In conclusion, while Bryant Pond offers a desirable rural lifestyle, the limitations in **transportation** and **healthcare access** present significant challenges. The overall health score is negatively impacted by these factors, highlighting the need for continued efforts to improve access to medical services for all residents. The availability of reliable **transportation** options, the expansion of telehealth services, and the strengthening of medical **transportation** networks are crucial for improving the health and well-being of the community.