04787, Westfield, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04787, Westfield, Maine is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.16 percent of residents in 04787 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is A R Gould Hospital with a distance of 11.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04787 (Westfield, Maine)

Westfield, Maine (ZIP code 04787), a rural community nestled in Aroostook County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering its residents' overall health score. The cornerstone of this score, as with any community, is **healthcare access**, and a significant factor influencing this access is the available **transportation** options. This write-up will delve into the specifics of commuting to healthcare facilities from Westfield, examining drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services.

The primary consideration in assessing healthcare access in Westfield is the geographical isolation. While the town itself is relatively small, the nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in Presque Isle, roughly 15 miles away. This distance translates to a drive time that can vary significantly depending on the season and weather conditions.

The most direct route to Presque Isle involves navigating a network of local roads and State Route 163. This route, though generally well-maintained, can experience delays during the winter months due to snow and ice. Average drive times under ideal conditions hover around 20-25 minutes. However, during severe weather, this commute can easily stretch to 45 minutes or even longer, potentially impacting the timely delivery of care.

For those seeking specialized care or more advanced medical services, the journey often extends beyond Presque Isle. The nearest major hospitals with a wider range of specialists and treatment options are located in Bangor, approximately 170 miles south. This drive, primarily via Interstate 95, can take upwards of three hours, placing a considerable burden on residents requiring regular or emergency care.

Public **transportation** options in Westfield are limited. Aroostook Regional Transportation System (ARTS) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While ARTS aims to provide door-to-door service, its availability and frequency are constrained by funding and operational logistics. This service is crucial for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to age or disability. However, the limited schedule and potential for long wait times can pose a significant barrier to accessing timely healthcare.

The availability of public transit is particularly important for those with disabilities. ARTS vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and ramps, to ensure accessibility. This is critical for individuals with mobility impairments, allowing them to access healthcare services without relying solely on family or friends.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are virtually nonexistent in Westfield and the surrounding areas. This lack of readily available on-demand **transportation** significantly limits the options for those needing immediate medical attention or who lack access to a personal vehicle. This absence creates a significant gap in **healthcare access**, especially for those without other support systems.

Medical **transportation** services offer a vital link for patients requiring non-emergency medical transport. Several regional providers, such as Crown Ambulance and Presque Isle Ambulance, operate in Aroostook County. These services typically transport patients to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare-related destinations. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for residents, further impacting their overall health score.

The challenges in **transportation** underscore the importance of proactive healthcare planning in Westfield. Residents should consider the time required to reach medical facilities, especially during adverse weather conditions. Maintaining a reliable vehicle, having a support network for rides, and understanding the availability of medical transport services are crucial steps in mitigating potential barriers to care.

The remoteness of Westfield also highlights the importance of telehealth services. Telemedicine can bridge the geographical gap, allowing residents to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for long commutes for routine appointments. The availability of reliable internet access is, therefore, a crucial factor in maximizing the effectiveness of telehealth services.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Westfield is further shaped by the availability of local healthcare providers. The presence of a primary care physician, a dentist, and other essential healthcare professionals within the community can significantly improve the overall health score. These local providers can offer preventative care, manage chronic conditions, and provide timely referrals to specialists, reducing the need for frequent and lengthy **transportation** to distant medical facilities.

For individuals considering **moving to Westfield**, understanding the **transportation** limitations and the availability of healthcare services is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and ensure they have a plan in place to access necessary medical care. This includes evaluating the availability of reliable **transportation**, understanding the local healthcare provider network, and considering the potential need for medical **transportation** services.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Westfield (ZIP code 04787) is influenced by the challenges of **transportation**. While the community boasts a strong sense of resilience and neighborly support, the geographical isolation and limited **transportation** options create significant hurdles to **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the absence of ride-share services, and the cost of medical **transportation** all contribute to the complexity of accessing timely and comprehensive medical care. Addressing these **transportation** challenges through strategic investments in public transit, expansion of telehealth services, and increased access to affordable medical **transportation** will be crucial in improving the overall health score and ensuring the well-being of Westfield's residents. The future of healthcare in Westfield hinges on innovative solutions that bridge the geographical divide and empower residents to proactively manage their health.