04763, Oakfield, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04763, Oakfield, Maine is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.72 percent of residents in 04763 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 31.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Houlton Regional Hospital with a distance of 13.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Oakfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04763)

The health and well-being of Oakfield residents are intrinsically linked to their ability to access healthcare services. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for individuals residing in ZIP code 04763, focusing on the crucial element of **transportation**. We will dissect the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This assessment is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Oakfield**, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The Overall Health Score is a composite metric, reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach necessary medical facilities. It considers factors such as travel time, mode of transport, cost, and accessibility. A higher score indicates better healthcare access, while a lower score signals potential barriers. This write-up aims to illuminate these factors, providing a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in Oakfield.

**Driving Dynamics: The Road to Wellness**

For many Oakfield residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare. Understanding the road network is paramount. The town is primarily served by U.S. Route 2 (US-2), a major east-west artery, and Maine State Route 16 (ME-16), which runs north-south. Access to these routes is generally straightforward, but travel times can vary significantly depending on the destination and weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Maine winters.

The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in Houlton, approximately 15 miles east of Oakfield. Driving time to Houlton Regional Hospital, the primary healthcare provider for the area, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes under normal conditions. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the Overall Health Score. However, travel times can be considerably longer during inclement weather, potentially delaying access to critical care.

Specialist appointments and more complex procedures may necessitate travel to Bangor, a significantly larger city about 120 miles south. The journey to Bangor, primarily via I-95, can take upwards of two hours, excluding potential delays. This longer travel time negatively impacts the Overall Health Score, especially for those requiring frequent specialist visits or facing chronic health conditions. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter, further exacerbates this challenge.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Oakfield are extremely limited. Aroostook Regional Transportation System (ARTS) provides some bus service within Aroostook County, but its routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve Oakfield. The availability of public **transportation** is a significant constraint on the Overall Health Score.

The lack of regular bus service poses a particular challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of reliable public transit necessitates reliance on alternative methods, potentially increasing travel costs and limiting healthcare **access**.

While ARTS may offer some limited routes, the frequency and coverage are not sufficient to provide a viable alternative for most healthcare-related trips. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on ARTS buses is crucial for ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service frequency and route coverage remain a significant barrier.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Oakfield is extremely limited, if available at all. This lack of ride-sharing options presents a significant challenge for residents who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of readily available ride-sharing services negatively impacts the Overall Health Score, especially for those with mobility limitations or who require urgent care.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a vital role in bridging the gap in **transportation** for healthcare. Ambulance services are readily available in Oakfield for emergency situations, providing rapid transport to Houlton Regional Hospital.

NEMT services, often provided by private companies or social service agencies, offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. These services are particularly important for individuals who require assistance with mobility or who cannot drive themselves. The availability and cost of NEMT services can significantly impact the Overall Health Score, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited financial resources.

**Medical Transport Brands:**
* **Houlton Ambulance Service:** Provides emergency medical transport.
* **Aroostook County Action Program (ACAP):** May offer NEMT services, check availability and eligibility.
* **Local Private Transport Companies:** Search for providers in the Houlton area.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in Oakfield, Maine, is moderately positive. The relatively short drive time to Houlton Regional Hospital is a significant advantage. However, the limited public **transportation** options, the potential for long travel times to specialized care in Bangor, and the scarcity of ride-sharing services present notable challenges.

The availability and cost of NEMT services are crucial factors influencing the score, particularly for vulnerable populations. The Overall Health Score is also influenced by the impact of weather conditions on road travel, especially during winter months. This factor underscores the importance of preparedness and contingency planning for healthcare appointments.

The score also considers the availability of local pharmacies and clinics within Oakfield, reducing the need for frequent travel for basic medical needs. The presence of these local resources positively impacts the score.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To enhance the Overall Health Score for Oakfield residents, several key improvements are recommended. First, advocating for increased public **transportation** options, including expanded ARTS routes and schedules, would significantly improve healthcare **access**, especially for those without personal vehicles.

Second, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to increase service availability, even on a limited basis, could provide a valuable alternative for some residents. Third, ensuring the affordability and accessibility of NEMT services is crucial, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited financial resources.

Finally, promoting community awareness of available healthcare resources and **transportation** options can empower residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. For anyone **moving to Oakfield**, thoroughly researching these factors is essential for ensuring their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

In conclusion, while Oakfield offers relatively good access to basic healthcare, improvements in public **transportation**, ride-sharing availability, and NEMT services are critical to enhancing the Overall Health Score and ensuring equitable **healthcare access** for all residents. This is a crucial consideration for anyone considering **moving to Oakfield**.