04605, Ellsworth, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04605, Ellsworth, Maine is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.46 percent of residents in 04605 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital with a distance of 1.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04605

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Ellsworth, Maine (ZIP Code 04605), requires a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare. This encompasses not just the presence of medical facilities but also the ease with which residents can reach them. A crucial factor in this equation is the transportation infrastructure available, impacting healthcare access significantly.

Ellsworth, a charming city nestled in Hancock County, presents a unique challenge. Its location, while offering scenic beauty, also dictates a dependence on personal vehicles for many. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services, while present, might not fully cater to the diverse needs of the population. Therefore, understanding the nuances of transportation is paramount to evaluating the health score.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in and around Ellsworth are US Route 1, US Route 1A, and Maine Route 184. These roadways connect Ellsworth to surrounding towns and cities, where more specialized medical services are often located. Drive times, therefore, become a critical element.

For residents seeking primary care within Ellsworth, the drive is typically manageable. However, for specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, residents often need to travel to Bangor, approximately 25 miles away. This drive, primarily on US Route 1A, can take between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Emergency situations necessitate immediate access to the nearest hospital, Maine Coast Hospital, located within Ellsworth. The drive time to the hospital from most locations within the city is generally under 15 minutes. However, residents living in more rural areas might face longer travel times, potentially impacting the outcome of time-sensitive medical emergencies.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Ellsworth are limited. The Downeast Transportation, a regional transit system, offers bus routes within Hancock County. However, the frequency of these routes is limited, and they might not always align with the schedules of medical appointments.

The Downeast Transportation routes serving Ellsworth include those that travel to and from Bangor. These routes are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, offering ADA-compliant features such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the limited frequency and potential for longer travel times compared to driving can pose a significant challenge for those needing frequent or urgent medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Ellsworth, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability and affordability can vary, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas. This can affect healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance services and private companies, play a vital role in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services are often equipped to handle individuals with mobility limitations and can provide specialized care during transport. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, impacting their healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Ellsworth:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within Ellsworth is a significant advantage for residents. Maine Coast Hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient clinics. Several primary care physicians and specialists also practice within the city, providing convenient access to medical care.

However, the need to travel to Bangor for specialized care highlights a potential challenge. Residents considering moving to Ellsworth should factor in the drive times and transportation options when assessing their healthcare needs. Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments might find the travel time and transportation costs to be a significant consideration.

**Factors Influencing the Health Score:**

Several factors influence the overall health score related to healthcare access in Ellsworth. The availability of transportation options, the drive times to medical facilities, the affordability of healthcare services, and the presence of specialized medical care all play a crucial role.

The limited public transportation options and the dependence on personal vehicles can create challenges for those without access to a car or those who cannot drive. The cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation can also be a barrier for some residents. The availability of specialized medical care in Bangor adds another layer of complexity, requiring residents to factor in travel time and potential transportation costs.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Ellsworth (ZIP Code 04605) is influenced by a combination of factors. While the presence of a local hospital and primary care physicians provides a foundation for good healthcare access, the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the need to travel to Bangor for specialized care present challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Ellsworth, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Understanding the drive times, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare access. Efforts to improve public transportation options, expand ride-sharing services, and address the affordability of medical transportation could significantly enhance the overall health score for residents of Ellsworth, ensuring that everyone has equal access to the healthcare they need.