04684, Surry, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04684, Surry, Maine is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.82 percent of residents in 04684 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04684 (Surry, Maine)

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Surry, Maine (ZIP Code 04684), presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This assessment considers the accessibility of medical services, focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall health outcomes. The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach necessary care, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Understanding these factors is crucial for both current residents and those considering moving to Surry, ensuring informed decisions about their healthcare access.

The primary consideration is the distance to healthcare facilities. Surry, a picturesque coastal town, is relatively isolated. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in Ellsworth, approximately 15 miles away, or Bangor, roughly 50 miles distant. These distances, while seemingly manageable, can become significant barriers during emergencies or for individuals with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments.

The primary route to Ellsworth is via **US Route 1**. This two-lane highway, while scenic, can experience traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons. The drive typically takes 20-30 minutes, assuming favorable conditions. To reach Bangor, residents primarily utilize **US Route 1A** and **Interstate 95 (I-95)**. This longer journey can take upwards of an hour, potentially longer depending on traffic and weather.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The **Downeast Transportation Inc. (DTI)** provides bus service throughout Hancock County, including Surry. However, the routes and schedules are infrequent, and service is often limited to weekdays. While DTI offers ADA-accessible buses, the coverage area may not extend to all necessary healthcare facilities, particularly those in Bangor. The reliability of public transit for urgent medical needs is questionable.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent. Availability is heavily dependent on driver availability, which can be scarce in a rural setting. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical care is, at best, a gamble.

Medical transport services are crucial for residents unable to drive or lacking access to other transportation. Several options exist, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers. **LifeFlight of Maine** provides air ambulance services for critical cases. NEMT services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, but availability and scheduling can be complex. The cost of these services can be substantial, further impacting healthcare affordability.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 04684 is negatively impacted by the following factors: distance to major medical facilities, limited public transportation, the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport. These elements combine to create a transportation barrier that can significantly affect healthcare access.

The drive times themselves are not the only consideration. The condition of the roads, especially during winter months, can exacerbate the challenges. Snow and ice can make travel hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to medical care. The lack of reliable transportation options forces many residents to rely on personal vehicles, family members, or friends for transportation, adding to the burden of healthcare access.

The cost of healthcare is also intertwined with transportation challenges. The expense of gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees at medical facilities adds to the overall cost of care. For low-income residents, these expenses can be a significant barrier, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments. This can have a detrimental impact on preventative care and chronic disease management.

The availability of specialized medical services also plays a role. While Ellsworth offers some medical specialties, residents often need to travel to Bangor or even Portland for more complex procedures or consultations. This further increases the transportation burden and can contribute to healthcare disparities.

The impact of transportation challenges extends beyond physical access to healthcare. It can also affect mental health. The stress of navigating long distances, unreliable transportation, and the financial burden of transportation costs can contribute to anxiety and depression. This can, in turn, impact overall health outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Surry, understanding these transportation challenges is critical. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and evaluate their ability to access necessary medical services. Factors to consider include their age, health status, and access to personal transportation.

The existing healthcare infrastructure in Surry and the surrounding area is also relevant. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities can influence the frequency of travel required. Telemedicine, while not a complete solution, can provide some access to healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel.

The community's efforts to address transportation challenges are also noteworthy. Initiatives to improve public transportation, promote ride-sharing, or provide financial assistance for medical transport can improve healthcare access. Residents should be aware of these efforts and actively participate in shaping the healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, the overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 04684 reflects the significant transportation challenges faced by residents. While the scenic beauty of Surry is undeniable, the accessibility of healthcare services requires careful consideration. Understanding the drive times via **US Route 1**, **US Route 1A**, and **I-95**, the limitations of public transit (DTI), the inconsistency of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport is essential for anyone considering making this coastal community their home. Addressing these challenges through community initiatives, improved infrastructure, and innovative healthcare delivery models is crucial to ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need. The healthcare access picture requires constant attention and adaptation to ensure the health and well-being of the Surry community.