04438, Frankfort, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04438, Frankfort, Maine is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.14 percent of residents in 04438 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Waldo County General Hospital with a distance of 13.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Frankfort, Maine (ZIP Code 04438)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital healthcare services. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Frankfort, Maine (ZIP code 04438), focusing on the critical aspect of transportation to and from medical appointments. We'll examine the existing infrastructure, including road networks, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to Frankfort or already residing there.

Frankfort, a charming town nestled along the Penobscot River, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural setting, while offering tranquility, necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for many daily activities, including medical appointments. This dependence underscores the importance of understanding the existing transportation landscape.

**Roadway Infrastructure and Drive Times**

The primary arteries serving Frankfort are Route 1A, a state highway, and Route 174. Route 1A provides a direct link north to Bangor, a major regional hub, and south towards Searsport and Belfast. Route 174 offers a connection to Winterport and ultimately to Interstate 95, the state's major north-south thoroughfare.

The drive time to the nearest major hospitals and medical centers significantly impacts the overall health score. Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) in Bangor, approximately 25 miles north via Route 1A, is a critical destination for specialized care. Under normal traffic conditions, the drive typically takes between 35 to 45 minutes. This time frame is crucial, especially in emergencies.

Penobscot Bay Medical Center (PBMC) in Rockport, roughly 40 miles south via Route 1A, offers another option, particularly for residents closer to the southern edge of Frankfort. The drive to PBMC usually takes between 50 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. These drive times must be factored into the overall health score.

Smaller clinics and primary care providers are scattered throughout the region. The Frankfort Medical Clinic, while not directly in Frankfort, is within a reasonable driving distance. This clinic can provide essential services, reducing the reliance on longer trips to larger hospitals. However, the availability of specialized care in the immediate vicinity is limited, emphasizing the importance of understanding transportation options to Bangor and Rockport.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in Frankfort are limited. The primary provider of public transit in the region is the Bangor Area Transit (BAT) system, which offers bus routes throughout the Bangor metropolitan area. However, these routes do not directly serve Frankfort.

The closest access point to the BAT system is likely in Winterport or Searsport, requiring a personal vehicle or ride-sharing service to reach these locations. Furthermore, the BAT system, while offering some ADA-accessible buses, may not be the most practical or efficient method for reaching medical appointments, especially for those with mobility limitations. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the health score, particularly for residents without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bangor area, but their presence in Frankfort is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable, especially for scheduled appointments or those requiring specific transportation needs.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or require assistance getting to and from appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have associated costs.

Several medical transport brands, including local ambulance services and private companies, operate in the region. These services offer varying levels of care and transportation options, from basic wheelchair transport to advanced life support. The availability and cost of these services are critical factors in the overall health score.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

Accessibility is a paramount concern for individuals with disabilities. The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is a critical factor in determining the health score. While some public transit buses in the BAT system are ADA-accessible, the lack of direct service to Frankfort poses a significant challenge.

Ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles, but their availability cannot be guaranteed. Medical transportation services often provide accessible options, but these services can be costly and require pre-planning. The overall lack of readily available and reliable ADA-accessible transportation negatively impacts the health score for individuals with disabilities.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Frankfort, Maine (04438), is moderate. While residents have access to essential healthcare services through nearby hospitals and clinics, the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation is a significant limiting factor. The limited public transportation options, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the potential cost of medical transportation services further impact the score.

The drive times to major medical facilities, while manageable, can be stressful and time-consuming, particularly during emergencies. The lack of readily available ADA-accessible transportation poses a challenge for individuals with disabilities.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the overall health score, several key areas require attention. Expanding public transportation options to directly serve Frankfort would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing services to ensure consistent availability and offering subsidized transportation options for low-income residents would also be beneficial.

Investing in community-based transportation programs, such as volunteer driver programs or carpooling initiatives, could provide additional support. Promoting awareness of existing medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability are also crucial.

For those considering moving to Frankfort, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. While the town offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the limitations in healthcare access must be carefully considered. The ability to drive, access reliable transportation, and plan for medical appointments are all critical factors in maintaining good health.

In conclusion, while Frankfort provides access to healthcare, improvements in transportation infrastructure and services are needed to ensure equitable and reliable healthcare access for all residents, ultimately improving the overall health score for the community.