The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04475, Passadumkeag, Maine is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
21.55 percent of residents in 04475 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penobscot Valley Hospital with a distance of 12.38 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 04475, Passadumkeag, Maine
Overall Health Score | 34 |
---|---|
People Score | 59 |
Provider Score | 17 |
Hospital Score | 67 |
Travel Score | 26 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 04475 | Passadumkeag | Maine |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.13 |
1 Car | 8.65 | 8.65 | 18.39 |
2 Cars | 63.24 | 63.24 | 45.49 |
3 or More Cars | 28.11 | 28.11 | 34.00 |
Vehicular Access in 04475, Passadumkeag, Maine
## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Passadumkeag, Maine (ZIP Code 04475)
Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is crucial for overall well-being, especially when considering a move to a new community. This report analyzes the healthcare access landscape for residents of Passadumkeag, Maine (ZIP code 04475), focusing on transportation options and their impact on an individual's ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of reaching various healthcare providers.
The primary factor influencing the health score in Passadumkeag is its relative remoteness. The town is nestled in Penobscot County, a region characterized by sprawling landscapes and limited public transportation infrastructure. This geographical reality significantly impacts the accessibility of healthcare services, making personal transportation the dominant mode.
**Drive-Time Analysis:**
The most common route for accessing healthcare from Passadumkeag involves driving. The primary thoroughfare is **Maine State Route 169**, which connects the town to the broader regional network. This road, while scenic, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Maine winters. Delays due to snow, ice, or other road hazards can significantly impact drive times and potentially compromise healthcare access during emergencies.
For specialist care and hospitals, residents typically travel to Bangor, approximately 25 miles south. This journey usually involves connecting to **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, a major north-south artery. Under ideal conditions, the drive to Bangor can take around 30-40 minutes. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend this time considerably. Further, the condition of the **I-95** can be a factor.
Other healthcare destinations might include Lincoln, approximately 20 miles north, accessible via **Maine State Route 2**. Drive times to Lincoln are generally shorter, around 25-30 minutes, but the availability of specialized services is more limited compared to Bangor.
**Public Transportation Challenges:**
Public transportation options in Passadumkeag are extremely limited. Penobscot County, like many rural areas, struggles with providing robust public transit. There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve Passadumkeag. This lack of public transportation poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.
The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative methods. For those who cannot drive or do not own a car, healthcare access becomes a complex challenge. The nearest bus services might be available in Bangor, but getting there from Passadumkeag requires an additional mode of transportation, further increasing travel time and complexity.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Bangor area, but their presence in Passadumkeag is less consistent. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and may involve longer wait times.
Medical transportation services are available for individuals with specific needs. These services, often operated by private companies, provide transportation to and from medical appointments. However, they can be expensive and may require advance booking, which is not always feasible in urgent situations. The availability of these services in Passadumkeag and the surrounding areas is limited.
**ADA Accessibility:**
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation and healthcare facilities. However, the lack of public transit in Passadumkeag limits the practical application of these regulations. While healthcare facilities in Bangor and Lincoln are generally ADA-compliant, reaching them from Passadumkeag presents significant challenges for individuals with disabilities. This reinforces the importance of accessible personal transportation or reliable medical transportation services.
**Healthcare Provider Proximity:**
The availability of local healthcare providers within Passadumkeag itself is a critical factor. The town likely has a primary care physician or a small clinic, which provides essential medical services. However, access to specialists, hospitals, and emergency care necessitates travel to Bangor or other regional centers. This geographical reality underscores the importance of understanding transportation options and their limitations.
**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**
Based on the analysis, the "Overall Health Score" for residents of Passadumkeag, Maine (04475), is moderately low. While the town offers some local healthcare resources, the limited transportation options significantly impede access to specialized care, emergency services, and other essential medical resources.
The reliance on personal vehicles creates vulnerabilities for individuals without access to cars or those who are unable to drive. The lack of public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services exacerbate these challenges.
For individuals considering moving to Passadumkeag, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those with chronic medical conditions or who require frequent specialist appointments should carefully consider the travel times and potential transportation barriers.
**Recommendations for Improvement:**
* **Advocate for improved public transportation:** Supporting initiatives to expand public transit options, even on a limited basis, could significantly improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations.
* **Explore partnerships with ride-sharing services:** Negotiating agreements with ride-sharing companies to ensure reliable service in Passadumkeag could enhance access.
* **Promote medical transportation services:** Raising awareness of available medical transportation options and providing financial assistance for those in need could help.
* **Encourage telehealth initiatives:** Expanding access to telehealth services could reduce the need for travel and improve healthcare access, particularly for routine appointments.
* **Community support:** Building a strong community network to support residents with transportation needs.
By acknowledging the transportation challenges and proactively implementing solutions, Passadumkeag can strive to improve healthcare access and enhance the overall health and well-being of its residents. This is essential for attracting new residents and ensuring that those considering moving to Passadumkeag can access the care they need.
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