04254, Livermore Falls, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04254, Livermore Falls, Maine is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.89 percent of residents in 04254 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.92 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Livermore Falls, Maine (ZIP Code 04254)

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of Livermore Falls, Maine (ZIP Code 04254), focusing on the crucial element of **healthcare access**. It considers the various **transportation** options available, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, evaluating their impact on a resident's ability to reach necessary medical appointments and facilities. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals **moving to Livermore Falls**, providing insight into the practicalities of maintaining good health within the community.

The score considers several factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency and reliability of **transportation** options, the cost of accessing care, and the availability of specialized medical services. A higher score indicates easier and more reliable access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. The overall health score for Livermore Falls, focusing on **healthcare access**, will be determined by a combination of these elements.

Livermore Falls, a charming town nestled in the heart of Maine, offers a tranquil lifestyle but presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access due to its rural location. The town's health score hinges significantly on the availability and efficiency of **transportation** to medical facilities. Residents primarily rely on personal vehicles for their medical appointments, making the condition of local roads and the distance to healthcare providers critical considerations.

The primary roadways impacting **healthcare access** in Livermore Falls are Route 4 and Route 133. Route 4, the main thoroughfare, provides access to neighboring towns and cities, including Farmington and Lewiston, where a greater concentration of healthcare facilities exists. Route 133 serves as a vital artery connecting Livermore Falls to nearby communities and facilitating travel to medical appointments. The drive times to these facilities are crucial in determining the health score.

Driving to Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington, the closest hospital, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 4, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive is generally considered manageable for routine appointments, but it can become challenging during emergencies or severe weather events. For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, which is approximately a 45-60 minute drive via Route 4 and the Maine Turnpike (I-95).

Public **transportation** options in Livermore Falls are limited, which significantly impacts the overall health score. The Greater Portland Transit District (METRO) does not directly serve Livermore Falls. The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. This limitation underscores the reliance on private vehicles and the need for alternative solutions.

While public **transportation** is scarce, understanding the potential for expansion is critical. Investigating opportunities for demand-response services or partnerships with neighboring transit systems could improve the health score. Exploring the feasibility of a local shuttle service specifically designed to transport residents to medical appointments could also significantly enhance access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This inconsistency can pose a challenge for individuals needing to schedule appointments or access urgent care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, further affecting the health score.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, are available in the area. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive themselves. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, impacting the overall health score.

The presence of these services does improve the score, but their limited availability in a rural area means that the score is still negatively impacted. The potential for delays and the need to pre-book these services can create additional stress and logistical challenges for patients.

The availability of local healthcare providers within Livermore Falls itself also influences the health score. The presence of primary care physicians, dentists, and other essential healthcare professionals within the town reduces the need for frequent travel to distant facilities. However, the availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, or specialized surgery, is limited in Livermore Falls. Residents often need to travel to larger cities like Lewiston or Portland for these services, increasing **transportation** demands.

The cost of **transportation** also plays a significant role in the overall health score. The cost of gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing services can strain household budgets, particularly for low-income residents. This financial burden can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, negatively impacting health outcomes. The availability of financial assistance programs for **transportation** costs, such as those offered by local healthcare providers or social service agencies, can help mitigate this challenge.

Furthermore, the presence of community resources, such as volunteer driver programs or carpooling initiatives, can enhance **healthcare access** for residents. These programs can provide affordable and reliable **transportation** options for individuals who cannot drive themselves. The promotion and expansion of these resources would significantly improve the overall health score.

The overall health score for Livermore Falls, Maine (ZIP Code 04254), concerning **healthcare access**, is moderate. While the town offers a peaceful environment and a sense of community, the limited public **transportation** options and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of **transportation** all contribute to this score.

The score could be improved by expanding public transit options, promoting ride-sharing programs, and increasing the availability of medical **transportation** services. Investing in community resources, such as volunteer driver programs and carpooling initiatives, would also significantly enhance **healthcare access**. For individuals **moving to Livermore Falls**, understanding these **transportation** challenges is essential for planning and ensuring access to necessary medical care.