04238, Hebron, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04238, Hebron, Maine is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.82 percent of residents in 04238 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Stephens Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04238 (Hebron, Maine)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Hebron, Maine (ZIP Code 04238), necessitates a deep dive into healthcare accessibility, with a primary focus on the *transportation* infrastructure that connects the community to vital medical services. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for potential residents and current community members alike. Understanding these factors is critical for anyone *moving to Hebron* or evaluating their existing healthcare access.

Hebron, nestled in Oxford County, presents a unique challenge. While the town itself offers a tranquil, rural lifestyle, its location necessitates reliance on surrounding towns and cities for specialized healthcare. This geographical reality directly impacts the overall health score, making *healthcare access* a pivotal concern. The score reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching various medical facilities, from primary care physicians to specialized clinics and hospitals.

The primary mode of transportation for most Hebron residents is the personal vehicle. Drive times to essential healthcare facilities are therefore a critical element. Accessing Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston, a major regional hospital, typically involves a drive of approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This journey predominantly utilizes Route 119, a scenic but often winding road, connecting Hebron to the more significant arteries of Route 202 and Route 4.

Alternatively, reaching St. Mary's Regional Medical Center, also in Lewiston, requires a similar drive time. The route often involves a combination of local roads and Route 119, potentially adding a few minutes to the commute. Further afield, the journey to Maine Medical Center in Portland, a tertiary care center offering specialized services, can take upwards of an hour and a half, primarily via Route 4 and the Maine Turnpike (I-95). These drive times significantly influence the overall health score, particularly for individuals requiring frequent medical attention.

Public transit options in Hebron are limited. The Greater Portland Metro (METRO) does not extend its services to this area. The closest public transit access is in Lewiston-Auburn, where the Lewiston-Auburn Transit Committee (LATC) operates a bus network. However, these routes are designed for local travel within the Lewiston-Auburn area and do not directly serve Hebron. Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on these routes should be confirmed with LATC.

This lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities. It underscores the necessity of alternative *transportation* solutions. The absence of readily available public transit negatively impacts the overall health score, potentially creating barriers to healthcare *access*.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lewiston-Auburn area, offering a potential solution for those unable to drive. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for regular medical appointments. This factor further influences the overall health score, highlighting the economic implications of healthcare *transportation*.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. Several companies operate in the region, including LifeFlight of Maine, offering air ambulance services for emergencies. Other ground-based medical transport providers, such as American Ambulance Service, offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. The availability and responsiveness of these services are critical for maintaining a good overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The overall health score is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers within Hebron itself. While the town may have limited direct medical services, access to primary care physicians, dentists, and other healthcare professionals in neighboring towns like Turner and Minot is essential. The drive times to these facilities, typically around 10-20 minutes, contribute to the overall assessment.

Furthermore, the availability of pharmacies and access to prescription medications is a crucial component. The nearest pharmacies are located in the surrounding towns, adding another layer to the *transportation* equation. Ensuring timely access to medication is vital for maintaining good health, and any delays or difficulties in obtaining prescriptions negatively impact the health score.

The overall health score for residents of Hebron, Maine (ZIP Code 04238) reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While the town's location offers a peaceful, rural environment, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing medical services presents a challenge. The limited public transit options, the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the need to rely on medical transport services for some individuals all contribute to a slightly lower score.

For those *moving to Hebron*, understanding these *transportation* challenges is paramount. The availability of a reliable vehicle is almost essential for accessing necessary healthcare. Planning for potential travel times, considering the costs of ride-sharing, and researching medical transport options are all crucial steps.

The overall health score can be improved by addressing the lack of public transit and exploring options for expanding ride-sharing services. Furthermore, promoting the availability of medical transport services and ensuring their accessibility for all residents can significantly improve the health score. Investing in community initiatives that support healthcare access, such as carpooling programs or partnerships with local healthcare providers, can also make a positive impact.

In conclusion, while Hebron offers a desirable lifestyle, the overall health score is somewhat tempered by the challenges of *transportation* to healthcare. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone considering *moving to Hebron* and for current residents seeking to optimize their *healthcare access*. The score is not a reflection of the quality of care available, but rather the ease with which that care can be accessed. By acknowledging and addressing the existing challenges, the community can work towards improving the overall health score and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the medical services they need.