04274, Poland, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04274, Poland, Maine is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.20 percent of residents in 04274 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Central Maine Medical Center with a distance of 9.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04274

This analysis assesses the ease with which residents of ZIP Code 04274, encompassing the town of Poland, Maine, can access healthcare services. We'll examine transportation options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The aim is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' reflecting the accessibility of care for those residing in this community, a crucial factor for anyone **moving to Poland**.

The geographical reality of Poland, Maine, is a significant factor. Located in Androscoggin County, it's a primarily rural area, impacting the availability and efficiency of **transportation** options. The **healthcare access** landscape is therefore shaped by this rural character, requiring careful consideration of the available resources.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

For residents of Poland, the automobile remains the primary mode of transport for accessing healthcare. The proximity of various healthcare facilities significantly impacts the overall score. The primary arteries serving the area are Route 26, the main north-south thoroughfare, and Route 11, which connects Poland to neighboring towns.

Driving to Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston, a major regional hospital, typically takes between 20-30 minutes, depending on the specific location within Poland and traffic conditions. The journey primarily involves Route 26, a well-maintained road, although subject to seasonal traffic fluctuations, particularly during peak hours.

For those seeking services in Auburn, the drive is generally shorter, around 15-20 minutes, primarily via Route 26. This route provides access to St. Mary's Regional Medical Center and various specialist clinics.

Smaller, more localized clinics and primary care physicians are also available within Poland and nearby towns like Mechanic Falls. Accessing these facilities generally requires shorter drives, often less than 10-15 minutes, utilizing local roads such as Empire Road and Tripp Corner Road. These local options offer crucial immediate care, impacting the overall health score positively.

The condition of roads, especially during winter months, can significantly affect drive times and safety. Snow and ice can lead to delays and increase the risk of accidents, highlighting the importance of vehicle maintenance and safe driving practices.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Poland are limited. The Greater Portland Metro (METRO) does not extend its services to this area. Local bus services are practically non-existent, posing a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. This scarcity of public **transportation** negatively impacts the overall health score, particularly for those who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive.

The lack of accessible public transit necessitates reliance on alternative methods, further emphasizing the importance of other **transportation** options. The absence of regular bus routes also means that individuals with mobility issues may face considerable difficulties in accessing healthcare.

While there are no specific ADA-compliant public transit routes, the town of Poland may have provisions for assisting individuals with disabilities in accessing healthcare. These could include subsidized taxi services or partnerships with medical transport providers.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their presence may be less consistent than in larger urban centers. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Reliance on ride-sharing can be costly, particularly for frequent appointments, and may not always be a reliable option, especially during inclement weather.

Medical transport services play a crucial role in bridging the gap in **transportation** for those unable to drive or use public transit. Several medical transport providers serve the Poland area, including local ambulance services and specialized companies that offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT).

These services typically require advance booking and may involve varying costs depending on the distance and the level of assistance needed. Some insurance plans cover NEMT services, making them a more affordable option for eligible individuals.

The availability of these services significantly improves **healthcare access** for those with mobility limitations. However, it's crucial to research and understand the specific coverage and limitations of these services.

**Specific Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region. Local ambulance services, such as those affiliated with the town's fire department or neighboring towns, provide emergency medical services.

For non-emergency transportation, companies like First Transit and Logisticare may offer services in the area. These companies often contract with insurance providers and offer transportation to medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare-related needs.

It's important to note that the specific availability of these brands and their service areas can change. Residents should confirm coverage and availability directly with their insurance providers and the transport companies.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 04274 is moderately positive, yet with significant areas for improvement. The primary strength lies in the relatively short drive times to major hospitals and clinics. However, the lack of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited options for those without them significantly impact the overall score. The cost and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services also need consideration.

**Recommendations:**

1. **Enhance Public Transit:** Advocate for the expansion of public transit options, even if limited, to provide a more accessible mode of **transportation** for residents. This could involve exploring partnerships with neighboring towns or establishing a demand-response system.

2. **Promote Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Increase awareness of ride-sharing services and their availability in the area. Provide information on how to access these services and potentially explore subsidized programs for low-income residents.

3. **Strengthen Medical Transport Services:** Collaborate with medical transport providers to ensure adequate coverage and affordability. Advocate for increased insurance coverage for NEMT services and explore options for reduced rates for those in need.

4. **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Maintain and improve road conditions, especially during winter months, to ensure safe and efficient travel.

5. **Community Education:** Educate residents about available resources, including transportation options, financial assistance programs, and healthcare services.

6. **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** The presence of local clinics and primary care physicians positively impacts the score. Encourage the development of additional healthcare facilities within Poland to reduce travel times and improve **healthcare access**.

For anyone **moving to Poland**, understanding these factors is crucial. While the area offers a relatively good starting point for healthcare, the limitations in **transportation** necessitate proactive planning and consideration of individual needs. Improving these factors will significantly enhance the 'Overall Health Score' and contribute to a healthier community.