04489, Stillwater, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04489, Stillwater, Maine is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.15 percent of residents in 04489 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penobscot Valley Hospital with a distance of 31.11 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04489 (Stillwater, Maine)**

Navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move to a new area, especially in a region like Stillwater, Maine (ZIP Code 04489). This assessment provides an overall health score, considering the multifaceted aspects of transportation and its impact on reaching essential medical services. The score will reflect the ease of access to healthcare facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 04489 reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While Stillwater offers a relatively rural environment, the area benefits from its proximity to larger towns and cities, enhancing the availability of healthcare resources. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options introduce potential challenges for some residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Stillwater is by personal vehicle. Residents typically rely on a network of well-maintained roadways to reach hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. The most direct route to the nearest major healthcare facilities in Bangor involves traveling along **Stillwater Avenue**, which merges into **Stillwater Road**, then connects to **Route 2**. From there, motorists can access **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, a major north-south artery, providing efficient travel to Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) and other medical providers in Bangor.

The drive time to EMMC from Stillwater averages approximately 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within Bangor. Traffic is generally manageable, but rush hour periods, particularly during the morning and afternoon commutes, can extend travel times. Other nearby healthcare facilities, such as St. Joseph Hospital in Bangor, are also readily accessible via the same network of roads, with similar drive times. Residents should factor in potential delays due to weather conditions, especially during winter months, when snow and ice can impact road conditions.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in Stillwater are limited, presenting a challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The Bangor Area Transit (BAT) provides some services in the greater Bangor area, but these routes are limited in their direct coverage of Stillwater. Residents might need to rely on a combination of walking, local roads, and a connection to the BAT system.

Currently, there are no specific BAT routes that directly serve Stillwater. However, residents may be able to access the BAT system by traveling to a nearby point, such as Orono, and connecting to a bus route. The BAT system offers some accessibility features, including buses equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities, ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, the infrequent service and the need for transfers can significantly extend travel times and complicate healthcare access for those relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bangor area, including Stillwater. These services can provide a convenient alternative to personal vehicles or public transit, especially for individuals who need occasional transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand in the area. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares during peak hours or in areas with lower population density.

For individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs that require specialized transportation, several medical transport services are available in the region. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Some of the prominent medical transport providers include LifeFlight of Maine and other local ambulance services that offer non-emergency transport. These services typically require advance booking and may involve additional costs, but they offer a crucial service for those who cannot use other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

The overall health score for ZIP Code 04489 reflects the interplay of various factors that impact healthcare access. The relatively short drive times to major healthcare facilities in Bangor are a significant advantage. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges for some residents, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or do not have access to a car.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offers additional options, but they may come with associated costs and logistical considerations. Residents considering moving to Stillwater should carefully evaluate their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements.

**Recommendations**

To improve healthcare access in Stillwater, several strategies could be considered. Expanding public transit routes to directly serve the town would significantly benefit residents who rely on public transportation. Collaborating with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation options for medical appointments could also enhance accessibility.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of available medical transport services and ensuring their affordability would be beneficial. Finally, encouraging the development of telehealth services and remote patient monitoring programs could help bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 04489 is moderate. While the proximity to Bangor and the availability of drive times to healthcare facilities are positive factors, the limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but careful consideration of individual transportation needs is essential. Residents considering moving to Stillwater should weigh these factors and plan accordingly to ensure they can readily access the healthcare services they require.