The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04357, Richmond, Maine is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
56.56 percent of residents in 04357 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Togus Va Medical Center with a distance of 12.88 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 04357, Richmond, Maine
Overall Health Score | 85 |
---|---|
People Score | 66 |
Provider Score | 83 |
Hospital Score | 49 |
Travel Score | 51 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 04357 | Richmond | Maine |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.29 | 1.29 | 2.13 |
1 Car | 23.13 | 23.13 | 18.39 |
2 Cars | 34.23 | 34.23 | 45.49 |
3 or More Cars | 41.35 | 41.35 | 34.00 |
Vehicular Access in 04357, Richmond, Maine
## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Richmond, Maine (ZIP Code 04357)
Richmond, Maine, nestled along the Kennebec River, offers a charming New England lifestyle. However, a crucial aspect of well-being often overlooked when considering moving to Richmond is healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for the commute to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 04357, considering various transportation options. The score will reflect the ease, time, and availability of reaching essential medical services.
The foundation of this score lies in understanding the transportation landscape. Residents of Richmond primarily rely on personal vehicles for mobility. The town is situated near the intersection of US Route 201 and Maine State Route 197, providing the primary arteries for travel. Route 201, a scenic byway, connects Richmond to larger population centers like Augusta and Brunswick, where more comprehensive healthcare facilities are located. Route 197 provides access to local services and connects with Route 201.
Drive times significantly impact healthcare access. The nearest hospital, MaineGeneral Medical Center's Alfond Center for Health in Augusta, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 201. This is generally considered a reasonable commute for emergency situations and routine appointments. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend travel times, potentially impacting the outcome of time-sensitive medical needs. Further, specialized care might necessitate travel to Portland, roughly an hour and fifteen minutes away, adding a considerable time commitment.
Public transit options in Richmond are limited. The Kennebec Explorer, a regional bus service, offers routes that may touch upon Richmond. However, these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve healthcare facilities. The availability of ADA-accessible features on these buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. Information regarding specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA compliance can be found on the Kennebec Explorer website. The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, limiting their healthcare access.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. Medical transport services, such as LifeFlight of Maine, are available for emergency situations, offering critical care transport by air. However, these services are reserved for dire circumstances and are not a substitute for routine healthcare access.
The availability of local healthcare providers within Richmond itself is a positive factor. The town likely has a family physician or a small clinic. This local access reduces the need for longer commutes for routine check-ups and minor ailments. However, the range of services offered locally may be limited, necessitating travel to larger facilities for specialized care. This balance between local convenience and the need for specialized care influences the overall health score.
The "Overall Health Score" also considers the impact of seasonal variations. Winter weather in Maine can significantly impact transportation. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, increasing commute times and potentially limiting access to healthcare. This factor is particularly relevant for individuals with mobility issues or those reliant on public transportation.
The score also considers the availability of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services within Richmond. Access to prescription medications and other essential supplies is a critical component of overall health. The presence of local pharmacies and their operating hours directly influence the convenience of healthcare access.
For individuals considering moving to Richmond, understanding the healthcare access landscape is paramount. The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP code 04357 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Augusta offers relatively quick access to a major hospital via Route 201, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. Ride-sharing services offer an alternative, but their availability and cost are factors.
The score is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers and the presence of essential services like pharmacies. The impact of seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, must also be considered.
The "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic measure, subject to change based on infrastructure improvements, the expansion of public transit, or the introduction of new healthcare services. Prospective residents should research the current state of healthcare access, considering their individual needs and circumstances.
The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Richmond, Maine (ZIP code 04357) is rated as **Moderate**. The score reflects a balance between the relatively short drive times to Augusta, the limited public transit options, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of local healthcare providers. While healthcare access is generally achievable, it is significantly reliant on personal vehicle ownership. The score could be improved with expanded public transit options, increased ride-sharing availability, and improvements to road infrastructure. The seasonal impact of weather conditions must also be considered. For individuals considering moving to Richmond, careful planning and consideration of these factors are crucial to ensure adequate healthcare access and contribute to overall well-being.
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