Health Scores Near 04944, Hinckley, Maine
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The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04944, Hinckley, Maine is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
100.00 percent of residents in 04944 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 6.17 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 04944, Hinckley, Maine
| Overall Health Score | 89 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 98 |
| Provider Score | 58 |
| Hospital Score | 59 |
| Travel Score | 44 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 04944 | Hinckley | Maine |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.13 |
| 1 Car | 100.00 | 100.00 | 18.39 |
| 2 Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 45.49 |
| 3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 34.00 |
Vehicular Access in 04944, Hinckley, Maine
## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04944 (Hinckley, Maine)
This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Hinckley, Maine (ZIP code 04944), focusing on the crucial element of healthcare access. A significant factor influencing health outcomes is the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This analysis considers various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Hinckley or seeking to understand the local healthcare landscape.
The geographical reality of Hinckley, nestled in rural central Maine, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The area's relative remoteness necessitates a nuanced understanding of transportation options and their associated limitations. This score reflects the complex interplay between distance, available resources, and the overall accessibility of essential medical services.
**Drive Times and Road Networks: The Primary Arteries**
The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Hinckley is the personal vehicle. The primary roads serving the area are crucial to calculating drive times. Residents typically rely on Route 201, a major north-south thoroughfare, and Route 139, which provides east-west connectivity. These roads are generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Maine winters, can significantly impact travel times and safety.
The nearest major medical facilities are located in Waterville, a town approximately 15 miles south of Hinckley. Driving to Thayer Hospital, a part of MaineGeneral Health, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this time can easily double during peak hours or inclement weather. For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to Bangor, roughly 60 miles away, which translates to a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes via I-95. This longer distance adds a significant time commitment and potential stress for patients.
The quality of roads is vital. While Route 201 and Route 139 are generally in good condition, smaller, local roads leading to Hinckley can be less well-maintained, especially during winter. This can impact the ability of emergency vehicles and those with mobility issues to reach healthcare facilities promptly. The availability of reliable transportation is a critical factor when considering moving to Hinckley.
**Public Transportation: A Limited but Present Option**
Public transportation options in the Hinckley area are limited. Kennebec Valley Transit (KVT) provides some service, but its routes and schedules are not extensive. The availability of public transit is a significant factor in the overall health score.
KVT Route 11, which runs between Waterville and Skowhegan, offers a potential connection for Hinckley residents. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the route may not directly serve all areas of Hinckley. The schedules are crucial to consider when evaluating healthcare access.
ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a key concern for public transit. KVT strives to provide accessible buses, but the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of use for individuals with disabilities should be carefully evaluated. The distance to bus stops from residences and the availability of accessible sidewalks are important considerations.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Waterville area, providing an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Hinckley itself is less reliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty is a significant consideration when assessing healthcare access.
Medical transport services play a vital role, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several providers serve the area, including local ambulance services and private medical transportation companies. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel.
The cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier for some residents. Insurance coverage and the availability of financial assistance programs are critical factors influencing healthcare access. The availability and affordability of these services directly impact the overall health score.
**Healthcare Access: Beyond Transportation**
While transportation is a critical component, healthcare access encompasses more than just getting to a doctor's office. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services in the surrounding area is also crucial. The density of medical facilities in Waterville and Bangor is a significant advantage for Hinckley residents.
The presence of urgent care clinics and walk-in medical facilities provides convenient options for non-emergency medical needs. Telehealth services are also becoming increasingly important, offering remote consultations and monitoring, which can reduce the need for travel. The integration of telehealth services is a positive factor in improving the health score.
**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**
The overall health score for healthcare access in Hinckley (04944) reflects a mixed picture. While residents benefit from the proximity of medical facilities in Waterville and the availability of specialized care in Bangor, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation present challenges.
The availability of ride-sharing services is variable, and the cost of medical transport can be a barrier for some. The harsh Maine winters can significantly impact travel times and safety. The overall health score is directly influenced by the reliability of transportation options.
For individuals considering moving to Hinckley, a thorough assessment of their personal transportation needs and the availability of medical services is essential. The ability to drive or access reliable alternative transportation is crucial. The overall health score is directly influenced by the ability to navigate the transportation landscape.
The overall health score for healthcare access in Hinckley is moderate. While the presence of medical facilities in nearby towns provides access to care, the limitations of transportation options, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility challenges, create barriers. Improving public transportation, expanding ride-sharing availability, and increasing the affordability of medical transport services would significantly enhance the health score and improve healthcare access for all residents. The overall health score is a dynamic metric, influenced by ongoing efforts to improve transportation and healthcare access.
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