04860, Tenants Harbor, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04860, Tenants Harbor, Maine is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.55 percent of residents in 04860 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penobscot Bay Medical Center with a distance of 14.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Tenants Harbor, ME (ZIP Code 04860)

The picturesque coastal community of Tenants Harbor, Maine (ZIP code 04860), offers a tranquil lifestyle, drawing those seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle. However, the allure of this idyllic setting must be weighed against the practicalities of daily life, particularly concerning **healthcare access**. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by **transportation** options when accessing medical services. This is critical information for anyone **moving to Tenants Harbor**, or contemplating a relocation.

The primary challenge in this rural area is the distance to comprehensive healthcare facilities. The nearest hospital, Pen Bay Medical Center in Rockport, is approximately 15 miles away. While this distance might seem manageable, the winding coastal roads and seasonal traffic fluctuations can significantly impact travel times, especially during inclement weather. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect these realities.

**Driving Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is personal vehicle. The primary route to Pen Bay Medical Center involves navigating Route 131, a scenic but often narrow and winding road, and then connecting to Route 1. Drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's familiarity with the route. Under ideal conditions, the drive might take around 25-30 minutes. However, during peak tourist season, or during inclement weather, this can easily extend to 45 minutes or even longer.

Alternative routes exist, but they often involve longer distances and potentially less reliable road conditions. For instance, taking Route 131 to Route 90, and then Route 1, offers a slightly more direct path to Route 1, but it might involve navigating more traffic, depending on the time of day.

For specialized care or emergency situations, the need to travel further afield becomes a reality. The city of Portland, with its major medical centers, is approximately 90 miles away, translating to a drive time of roughly two hours under ideal conditions. This journey involves navigating Route 1, a busy thoroughfare, and then potentially connecting to I-295, a highway that can experience significant congestion during peak hours. This extended travel time introduces potential delays in accessing critical care, negatively impacting the "Overall Health Score."

**Public Transportation: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in the area are limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The Island Explorer bus service, which serves Acadia National Park and surrounding areas during the summer months, does not extend to Tenants Harbor. The local bus service, operated by the Knox County Transportation Authority (KCTA), offers limited routes and schedules, primarily focusing on serving the town of Rockland and surrounding areas.

The KCTA operates a demand-response service, meaning that passengers must schedule rides in advance. While this service is available to residents of Tenants Harbor, the limited operating hours and the need for advance booking can make it challenging to access timely medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is essential for individuals with disabilities. While KCTA strives to provide ADA-compliant transportation, the limited fleet size can sometimes pose challenges in meeting demand, especially during peak hours. This significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score" for those reliant on public transit.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their presence is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours and in more remote locations. Availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be significant. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a considerable financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as MedStar Ambulance and other private ambulance companies, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are typically reserved for urgent medical needs and are not a viable option for routine appointments. The cost of medical transportation can also be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to **healthcare access**. These factors impact the "Overall Health Score."

**The "Overall Health Score" and Implications for Moving to Tenants Harbor**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in Tenants Harbor, Maine (ZIP code 04860) is moderate. The primary strength lies in the availability of personal vehicles, providing residents with the most direct route to medical facilities. However, this strength is offset by the limitations of other **transportation** options.

The limited public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on potentially lengthy drives to access specialized care and emergency services contribute to a lower score. The score is also affected by the financial implications of transportation, as the costs associated with personal vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing, and medical transport can be substantial.

For individuals **moving to Tenants Harbor**, this assessment highlights the importance of careful consideration regarding **healthcare access**. Those without personal vehicles, or with limited mobility, will face significant challenges in accessing medical care. This includes the need to plan ahead, utilize available resources, and potentially rely on family, friends, or community support for transportation assistance.

The "Overall Health Score" emphasizes the importance of pre-planning before relocation. Prospective residents should thoroughly research their healthcare needs, identify preferred medical providers, and assess the feasibility of accessing those providers given the available **transportation** options. This is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining overall well-being in this beautiful, but geographically isolated, coastal community. The score suggests a need for proactive planning and a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by **healthcare access** in Tenants Harbor.