04674, Seal Cove, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04674, Seal Cove, Maine is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.09 percent of residents in 04674 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Desert Island Hospital with a distance of 12.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Seal Cove, Maine (ZIP Code 04674)

The picturesque coastal community of Seal Cove, Maine (ZIP Code 04674), offers a tranquil lifestyle, drawing individuals and families seeking a slower pace. However, the idyllic charm must be weighed against practical considerations, particularly concerning healthcare access. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities, a crucial factor influencing the well-being of residents, especially those considering moving to Seal Cove.

The score considers various transportation options: personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each category is evaluated based on accessibility, frequency, cost, and the presence of features catering to individuals with disabilities, directly impacting the overall health score.

**Personal Vehicle Accessibility:**

Driving is the dominant mode of transportation in the region, making the condition of roads and drive times to healthcare facilities paramount. From Seal Cove, accessing healthcare primarily involves navigating the state's network of roads and highways. The primary arteries are Route 195, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Route 187, which provides north-south access.

The nearest hospital, Maine Coast Memorial Hospital in Ellsworth, is approximately a 35- to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive involves traveling on Route 187 to Route 1, then onto Route 1A to Ellsworth. While the roads are generally well-maintained, winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Specialist appointments may require travel to Bangor, about an hour and 15 minutes away, primarily via Route 1 and Interstate 395. This longer commute highlights the importance of reliable personal transportation and the potential for increased stress related to healthcare access.

**Public Transit Accessibility:**

Public transportation options are limited in the area, a significant factor influencing the overall health score. Hancock County Regional Transportation (HCRT) provides some bus services, but they are not specifically designed for healthcare access. HCRT operates on a demand-response basis, meaning riders must schedule trips in advance.

Service to Ellsworth and surrounding towns is available, but the frequency and route availability are limited, making it challenging to rely on public transit for timely medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, and this aspect needs to be confirmed with HCRT.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Accessibility:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability is inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Seal Cove. The reliability of these services for scheduled medical appointments is questionable.

Specialized medical transport services are available, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers. These services are essential for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance. However, these services often involve higher costs and require advance booking, which can add to the complexity of healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Seal Cove, Maine (ZIP Code 04674), is moderate. While personal vehicle access is generally good, the distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for weather-related delays pose challenges. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further constrain healthcare access.

The score is influenced by the remoteness of the area, emphasizing the need for residents to be prepared for longer travel times and potential transportation limitations. Individuals considering moving to Seal Cove should carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation options.

The availability of specialized medical transport services is a positive factor, providing a safety net for those with mobility limitations. However, the cost and scheduling requirements of these services must be considered.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance healthcare access, several initiatives could be considered. Expanding public transportation options, including more frequent routes and services specifically designed for healthcare access, would be beneficial. This could involve partnerships between the local government, healthcare providers, and transportation agencies.

Promoting the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services could also improve healthcare access. This could involve incentivizing ride-sharing companies to serve rural areas.

Furthermore, improving road infrastructure, including winter maintenance, would enhance the safety and efficiency of personal vehicle travel.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score in Seal Cove is a reflection of the challenges inherent in rural healthcare access. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, prospective residents must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. The availability of reliable transportation is crucial for maintaining good health and well-being. This assessment provides a comprehensive overview of the current situation, highlighting areas for improvement and emphasizing the importance of proactive planning for healthcare access.