Overall Health Score

04353, Whitefield, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 04353, Whitefield, Maine

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04353, Whitefield, Maine is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.42 percent of residents in 04353 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Togus Va Medical Center with a distance of 6.07 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 04353, Whitefield, Maine

Overall Health Score 87
People Score 48
Provider Score 66
Hospital Score 68
Travel Score 71

Closest Hospital - TOGUS VA MEDICAL CENTER

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 04353 Whitefield Maine
No Cars 1.27 1.27 2.13
1 Car 5.17 5.17 18.39
2 Cars 45.89 45.89 45.49
3 or More Cars 47.67 47.67 34.00

Vehicular Access in 04353, Whitefield, Maine

Travel Score Review of 04353, Whitefield, Maine

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04353 (Whitefield, Maine)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Whitefield, Maine (ZIP code 04353) necessitates a deep dive into the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. This analysis considers the practicalities of reaching medical facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Ultimately, this evaluation will inform prospective residents considering moving to Whitefield, providing a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing healthcare within this rural community.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Whitefield is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's geographical location, nestled in the heart of Lincoln County, dictates that residents depend heavily on cars for transportation. This dependence directly impacts the health score, as it introduces factors like vehicle maintenance costs, fuel expenses, and the potential for weather-related delays, especially during harsh Maine winters.

Driving to healthcare appointments in Whitefield typically involves navigating a network of state and local roads. The most common routes involve using Route 126, a major thoroughfare connecting Whitefield to neighboring towns like Jefferson and Windsor. Traveling east on Route 126 provides access to healthcare facilities in Augusta, the state capital. The drive to Augusta, approximately 20 miles, can take around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Another crucial route is Route 218, which intersects with Route 126 and offers access to Wiscasset and the coast. While this route provides a scenic drive, it does not offer immediate access to major healthcare facilities. Residents seeking specialized care might need to travel further afield, potentially adding significant travel time and distance.

The availability of public transit in Whitefield is limited. Lincoln County does not have a comprehensive public transportation system. Therefore, the options for those without personal vehicles are extremely restricted. This lack of public transit significantly lowers the overall health score, particularly for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive.

While specific public transit routes are not readily available within the immediate vicinity of Whitefield, the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments (KVCOG) offers some limited transportation services. KVCOG may provide demand-response transportation options, which require advance booking and are subject to availability. However, these services are not designed for regular, convenient access to healthcare appointments and may not have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in rural Maine. While these services may occasionally be available in Whitefield, their reliability and affordability are not guaranteed. The availability of ride-sharing is often subject to driver availability, which can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty further complicates healthcare access for residents who cannot drive.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from healthcare appointments. These services, such as MedStar Ambulance, are essential for those who require assistance with transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and advance booking is typically required.

The overall health score for Whitefield is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. This situation can lead to delayed or missed appointments, impacting preventive care and the management of chronic conditions.

Moving to Whitefield requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and explore available options. Those without personal vehicles should investigate the availability of NEMT services and plan for potential transportation challenges.

The distance to healthcare facilities and the lack of readily available transportation options can be particularly challenging for older adults. Seniors may face difficulties driving, and the absence of public transit can isolate them from essential medical care. The health score for this demographic is therefore significantly impacted.

The healthcare landscape in the region presents both opportunities and challenges. While the reliance on personal vehicles is a significant drawback, the presence of medical transport services and the proximity to healthcare facilities in Augusta offer some degree of access. However, the lack of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services remain significant concerns.

The overall health score for Whitefield, Maine (04353) reflects the complex interplay between transportation and healthcare access. While the town offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, the limited transportation options pose a significant challenge to residents seeking timely and convenient access to medical care. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate these factors when considering moving to Whitefield.

Improvements in transportation infrastructure, such as the expansion of public transit options or the promotion of ride-sharing services, could significantly improve the overall health score. Investing in transportation infrastructure is a vital step towards ensuring that all residents of Whitefield have equitable access to healthcare.

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Health Scores Near 04353, Whitefield, Maine

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