The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04683, Sunset, Maine is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
0.00 percent of residents in 04683 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Blue Hill Memorial Hospital with a distance of 17.08 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 04683, Sunset, Maine
Overall Health Score | 92 |
---|---|
People Score | 93 |
Provider Score | 78 |
Hospital Score | 77 |
Travel Score | 18 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 04683 | Sunset | Maine |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.13 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 18.39 |
2 Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 45.49 |
3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 34.00 |
Vehicular Access in 04683, Sunset, Maine
## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04683
Sunset, Maine, nestled in the picturesque embrace of ZIP code 04683, offers a compelling allure for those seeking a tranquil life. However, the idyllic charm of this coastal community must be tempered with a realistic assessment of its healthcare accessibility. This report provides an 'Overall Health Score' by meticulously examining the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing vital medical services. This is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Sunset, ensuring they are well-informed about the realities of healthcare access.
The primary concern in 04683 revolves around distance. Sunset is a relatively isolated community, meaning residents often face considerable travel times to reach healthcare facilities. The most direct route to larger medical centers typically involves navigating a combination of state highways and local roads. The primary arteries are Route 1, the scenic coastal highway, and Route 180, which provides a more inland connection. Secondary roads like the aptly named Sunset Road, and various town roads, offer access to local services, but they are often winding and subject to seasonal weather conditions.
The drive to the closest hospital, Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital in Ellsworth, covers approximately 30 miles. Under ideal conditions, this journey takes around 45 minutes, but this can easily extend to over an hour during peak traffic, inclement weather, or due to unforeseen road closures. This drive is predominantly on Route 1, providing a generally smooth, if sometimes congested, travel experience. However, the inherent unpredictability of weather, especially during winter months, poses a significant challenge.
Beyond Ellsworth, residents may need to travel further afield to access specialized care. Bangor, approximately 60 miles away, houses Eastern Maine Medical Center, a regional referral center. The drive to Bangor typically involves taking Route 1, and then connecting to Interstate 95. This route is generally faster than the Ellsworth route, but the distance and potential for traffic congestion remain factors. The journey can easily consume one and a half to two hours, making it a significant time commitment for medical appointments.
Public transportation options in 04683 are limited. Hancock County, where Sunset is located, does offer some public transit services, but these are primarily geared towards serving the larger towns and cities within the county. The Island Explorer, a seasonal bus service, primarily focuses on Acadia National Park and surrounding areas, and does not directly serve Sunset. Local taxi services are available, but their availability can be inconsistent, and their fares can be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments. ADA accessibility on these rare public transit options is limited.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is sporadic. Availability often hinges on driver proximity and demand, making them unreliable for time-sensitive medical needs. This is particularly problematic for residents who lack personal vehicles or are unable to drive due to health conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive, especially for regular trips to medical facilities.
Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with mobility limitations, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as MedStar and Care Ambulance, provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with specific needs, their availability may be limited, and they often require advance booking. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, adding to the overall financial burden of healthcare access.
The geographical isolation of Sunset and the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation significantly influence the 'Overall Health Score'. The time commitment required for medical appointments, coupled with the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, creates a considerable barrier to healthcare access. This is especially true for individuals with chronic conditions, mobility issues, or those who require frequent medical attention.
The quality of local healthcare services also plays a role. Sunset itself may have limited primary care options, meaning residents often need to travel to Ellsworth or Bangor for specialist consultations, diagnostic testing, and hospitalizations. This further exacerbates the transportation challenges and the time commitment involved in accessing healthcare. The availability of pharmacies, dental clinics, and other essential healthcare providers within the local area also impacts the overall health score.
The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 04683 is therefore moderate. While the area offers a beautiful setting, the transportation challenges significantly affect the ability of residents to access timely and convenient healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services create a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those with mobility limitations or those who lack access to a vehicle.
For those considering moving to Sunset, it is essential to carefully assess their healthcare needs and their ability to navigate the transportation landscape. A proactive approach, including identifying local healthcare providers, understanding the availability of medical transport services, and planning for potential transportation challenges, is crucial for ensuring adequate healthcare access. The idyllic charm of Sunset is undeniable, but a realistic assessment of its healthcare accessibility is essential for a healthy and fulfilling life in this coastal community.
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