04915, Belfast, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04915, Belfast, Maine is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.08 percent of residents in 04915 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Waldo County General Hospital with a distance of 1.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04915 (Belfast, Maine)

The quaint coastal city of Belfast, Maine, nestled within ZIP code 04915, offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and a burgeoning arts scene. However, when considering a move, particularly for those prioritizing healthcare access, a critical examination of transportation options and their impact on overall health is essential. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities from various locations within the 04915 ZIP code.

The primary challenge in Belfast, and much of rural Maine, is the inherent dependence on personal vehicles for transportation. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing services, while present, may have inconsistent availability. This reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential geographic isolation, significantly influences the “Overall Health Score” for residents.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The most direct route to healthcare facilities from most locations within 04915 involves driving. The primary artery is **U.S. Route 1**, a vital coastal highway that connects Belfast to surrounding towns and cities. Travel times vary considerably depending on the destination and the time of day. For example, accessing the **Waldo County General Hospital**, a crucial healthcare provider, typically requires a drive along Route 1. From the heart of Belfast, this drive usually takes less than 10 minutes.

However, for specialized care or access to larger medical centers, residents may need to travel further. **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, though not directly within Belfast, is a critical connector. Reaching Bangor, approximately 40 miles north, and home to Eastern Maine Medical Center (Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center) and other specialized facilities, necessitates a drive north on Route 1 and then onto I-95. This journey can take upwards of an hour, potentially longer during peak traffic or inclement weather.

Similarly, accessing healthcare in Portland, a major medical hub, requires a drive south on Route 1 and then onto I-95. This trip can easily consume two to three hours, significantly impacting healthcare access, particularly for urgent or recurring appointments. The condition of these highways, especially during winter months, can further complicate travel and affect the “Overall Health Score.”

Local roads, such as **Route 3** and **Route 1A**, provide alternative routes, but they often involve slower speeds and can be subject to seasonal closures or delays. These secondary roads also influence the overall assessment, as they can provide alternate routes to healthcare providers, but they can also add to the travel time.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transportation in Belfast, unfortunately, presents a significant limitation. The **Belfast Area Senior College** and **Waldo County General Hospital** are served by a local bus service, but its routes and schedules are limited, primarily catering to seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, while commendable, is insufficient to meet the needs of the general population for healthcare access.

The availability of ADA-compliant features on the buses is a positive aspect, but the infrequent service and limited route coverage considerably impact the “Overall Health Score.” The lack of comprehensive public transit options places a heavy burden on individuals without personal vehicles, limiting their healthcare access and potentially exacerbating health disparities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in Belfast, but their availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. This variability further affects the “Overall Health Score.”

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility issues or those unable to drive. However, they often require pre-booking and may have associated costs, which can influence the overall assessment.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Belfast:**

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in 04915 is moderately affected by the limitations in transportation. While the presence of a local hospital and the proximity to Bangor provide access to essential and specialized care, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Belfast, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or those who rely on regular medical care, a careful assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. The following factors should be considered:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is almost essential for healthcare access.
* **Driving Ability:** The ability to drive, especially in challenging weather conditions, is a significant factor.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Providers:** The location of a potential residence within the ZIP code relative to the hospital and other medical facilities should be evaluated.
* **Availability of Support:** The availability of family, friends, or caregivers to provide transportation assistance is a valuable asset.
* **Financial Resources:** The cost of vehicle ownership, ride-sharing, and medical transportation should be factored into the budget.

The “Overall Health Score” is influenced by the challenges presented by the limited transportation options. While Belfast offers a charming lifestyle and access to essential healthcare, prospective residents must carefully consider the transportation implications. The lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate proactive planning and consideration of individual healthcare needs. A move to Belfast requires a realistic assessment of these factors to ensure adequate healthcare access and maintain a high “Overall Health Score.”