04937, Fairfield, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04937, Fairfield, Maine is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.57 percent of residents in 04937 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Inland Hospital with a distance of 5.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04937 (Fairfield, Maine)

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when evaluating a community’s overall health. This analysis focuses on the ease with which residents of Fairfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04937) can access medical services, considering various transportation options and their impact on the overall health score. This is especially crucial for those considering moving to Fairfield.

The primary consideration is the geographical reality of Fairfield, a rural community. This influences the available transportation infrastructure and, consequently, healthcare access. The overall health score reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by this landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation in Fairfield is the personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare often necessitates driving, and drive times are a significant factor in the overall health score. The primary roadways serving Fairfield are US Route 201, a vital north-south artery, and Interstate 95, which provides access to more distant medical facilities.

Driving to the nearest hospital, Inland Hospital in Waterville, typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Fairfield. This drive primarily utilizes US Route 201. For specialized care or emergency situations, residents may need to travel to MaineGeneral Medical Center in Augusta, approximately a 30 to 40-minute drive via I-95.

The condition of these roadways is generally good, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can make driving conditions hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare. This seasonal vulnerability is a crucial factor in the overall health score.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Fairfield are limited. The primary provider is Kennebec Explorer, offering bus services within Kennebec County. However, the frequency of routes and the geographical coverage are limited, especially for areas outside of the immediate downtown Fairfield area.

Kennebec Explorer routes that serve Fairfield are not designed specifically for healthcare access, but they do offer some degree of transportation. These routes may involve transfers and longer travel times. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive factor, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Despite these features, the limited scope of public transit significantly lowers the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Fairfield area, though their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability affects the overall health score.

Medical transportation services are available, specifically for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are essential for accessing healthcare when other options are unavailable. However, these services are typically reserved for medical appointments or emergencies and can be costly.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Fairfield, ZIP Code 04937, is moderately affected by transportation. While the proximity to Waterville and Augusta provides access to hospitals and medical specialists, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transportation and the variability of ride-sharing, presents challenges.

The drive times to nearby medical facilities are generally reasonable, but the lack of robust public transportation options and the potential for weather-related delays negatively impact the score. The availability of medical transport services provides a safety net for those with specific needs, but the cost and limited scope of these services do not fully mitigate the transportation challenges.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

Several factors influence the overall health score:

* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** The relatively short drive times to Waterville and Augusta are positive.
* **Public Transportation Limitations:** The limited availability of public transit negatively impacts the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Variability:** The inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services is a concern.
* **Weather Conditions:** Winter weather can significantly impact transportation and healthcare access.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** The availability of medical transport services provides a safety net, but the cost and limited scope are factors.
* **Rural Location:** The rural nature of Fairfield influences transportation infrastructure and access to healthcare.

**Implications for Moving to Fairfield:**

For individuals considering moving to Fairfield, understanding these transportation factors is crucial. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges. The need for reliable personal transportation is high.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Fairfield is acceptable, but it is not ideal. Residents need to be prepared for the realities of rural transportation, including reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for weather-related delays, and the limited availability of alternative transportation options. Careful planning is essential to ensure timely access to healthcare services.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Fairfield, ZIP Code 04937, reflects a community with both strengths and weaknesses. The proximity to medical facilities is a positive factor, but the limited transportation options, particularly public transit, and the potential for weather-related disruptions, present challenges.

This analysis emphasizes the importance of considering transportation when assessing the overall health of a community. The ability to access healthcare is a fundamental determinant of well-being, and the transportation infrastructure plays a critical role in facilitating this access. For those moving to Fairfield, a clear understanding of these factors is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.