04220, Buckfield, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04220, Buckfield, Maine is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.44 percent of residents in 04220 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stephens Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04220 (Buckfield, Maine)

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Buckfield, Maine (ZIP code 04220), focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access through various transportation modalities. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced when accessing healthcare within and beyond the town's borders. This evaluation is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Buckfield, as transportation significantly impacts overall well-being.

Buckfield, a rural community nestled in Oxford County, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The town itself has limited medical facilities, necessitating residents to travel to neighboring towns and cities for specialized care. This geographical reality underscores the importance of reliable and efficient transportation options. The overall health score for 04220 is therefore heavily influenced by the ease with which residents can navigate these distances.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Buckfield is the personal vehicle. Drive times are heavily influenced by the road network and traffic conditions. The major thoroughfare serving Buckfield is **Route 117**, which connects the town to larger population centers like South Paris and Auburn. Traveling east on Route 117 leads to **Route 26**, offering a direct route to Lewiston and Auburn, home to Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC), a major regional hospital.

The drive to CMMC from Buckfield typically takes between 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Buckfield. Westward travel on Route 117 leads to Route 26 and eventually to the Western Maine Medical Center in Norway, a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes. These drive times, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by adverse weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Maine winters.

Other roads like **Route 140** and local roads offer alternative routes, but they often involve slower speeds and increased travel times. The condition of these roads, including potential potholes and limited maintenance, can further complicate journeys, impacting the overall health score. The availability of well-maintained roads and efficient traffic flow are crucial for timely healthcare access.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Buckfield are limited. The Greater Portland Metro, a regional transit authority, does not directly serve Buckfield. The primary public transit option is the **Oxford County Transportation (OCT)**, a demand-response service. OCT operates on a reservation basis, requiring riders to schedule their trips in advance.

While OCT provides a vital service for residents who cannot drive, its limitations impact the overall health score. The need for advance booking can restrict spontaneous healthcare visits, and the potential for longer travel times due to shared rides can be a significant drawback. The service's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is crucial, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can access healthcare. However, the service's efficiency and coverage area significantly affect the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Buckfield is variable. While these services may be available, their presence is not guaranteed, and wait times can be lengthy, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This inconsistency presents a challenge for those relying on ride-sharing for healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring specialized assistance, are available. **MedStar Ambulance Service** and **United Ambulance Service** are the primary providers in the area. These services offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments and can provide assistance for individuals with mobility limitations. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant barrier to access for some residents, impacting the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access and its Impact on the Health Score:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Buckfield is moderately impacted by the transportation challenges. While drive times to major hospitals are relatively manageable, the limitations in public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services create barriers for some residents.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers within Buckfield. The presence of a primary care physician and other healthcare professionals within the town can reduce the need for frequent travel, thereby improving the overall health score. The proximity of pharmacies and other essential healthcare services also plays a role.

The impact of these transportation limitations on overall health is multifaceted. Delayed access to care can lead to worsening health conditions, increased healthcare costs, and reduced quality of life. The challenges can be particularly acute for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to a personal vehicle.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Buckfield (04220) reflects a mixed picture. While residents have access to essential healthcare services through personal vehicles, public transit, and medical transport, several factors impact the score. The limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services present challenges for some residents.

For individuals considering moving to Buckfield, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Those without access to a personal vehicle or those with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available public transit and medical transport options. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring timely and affordable access to healthcare, which is a critical factor in maintaining overall well-being. Improving public transportation infrastructure and expanding ride-sharing availability would significantly enhance the overall health score for Buckfield residents.