04947, Kingfield, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04947, Kingfield, Maine is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.14 percent of residents in 04947 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 33.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 29.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Kingfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04947)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Kingfield, Maine, necessitates a deep dive into the complexities of healthcare access, particularly concerning transportation. This rural community, nestled in the heart of Franklin County, faces unique challenges in this regard. The vast distances, limited public transit options, and reliance on personal vehicles paint a picture of potential hurdles for individuals seeking timely and consistent medical care. This analysis considers drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, ultimately shaping an understanding of the community's overall health accessibility.

The primary factor influencing the health score is the time it takes to reach various healthcare facilities. Kingfield's geographic isolation means residents often must travel significant distances. The nearest hospitals, such as Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington, a crucial healthcare hub, and Redington-Fairview General Hospital in Skowhegan, are both accessible, but the journey is not always straightforward.

Reaching Franklin Memorial Hospital typically involves a drive along **Route 27** south, followed by a connection to **Route 2**. The distance is approximately 25 miles, and in optimal conditions, the drive takes around 30 to 40 minutes. However, weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Maine winters, can significantly extend this travel time, potentially impacting the ability to receive prompt medical attention.

Traveling to Redington-Fairview General Hospital requires a journey east on **Route 16**, then south on **Route 201**. This route is longer, roughly 45 miles, and the drive can take up to an hour or more, depending on traffic and road conditions. These travel times underscore the importance of reliable transportation for residents of Kingfield.

Public transportation options in Kingfield are limited. Franklin County, like many rural areas, lacks an extensive public transit network. The availability of buses or other forms of public transportation is scarce, making it challenging for those without personal vehicles to access healthcare. This lack of readily available options significantly impacts the health score, particularly for elderly individuals, those with disabilities, or those who cannot afford a car.

The absence of robust public transit emphasizes the importance of considering alternatives. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas of Maine, but their presence in Kingfield is uncertain. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability and demand, which can fluctuate. This uncertainty poses a challenge for those who rely on ride-sharing to reach medical appointments.

Medical transport services are a vital lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized transportation. Several companies offer medical transport services in Maine, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for scheduled appointments. These services, while crucial, can be costly and may require advance booking, which can create logistical challenges.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers. While Kingfield may have some primary care physicians or clinics, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, or oncologists, is likely limited. This means that residents often need to travel to larger towns or cities, further compounding the transportation challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Kingfield, the issue of healthcare access must be a primary consideration. The remoteness of the area and the limited transportation options require careful planning. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers, assess the drive times to hospitals and clinics, and explore the potential costs of medical transport services.

The overall health score for Kingfield residents is negatively impacted by the challenges of transportation and healthcare access. The drive times to hospitals, the lack of public transportation, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The reliance on personal vehicles and the associated costs, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, further exacerbate the challenges.

To improve the health score, several measures could be implemented. Increasing the availability of public transportation, such as establishing a bus route connecting Kingfield to Farmington and other healthcare hubs, would be beneficial. Promoting ride-sharing services and ensuring their consistent availability would also improve access.

Furthermore, expanding the availability of medical transport services and exploring options for telehealth consultations could help mitigate the challenges of distance. Telehealth, in particular, can be a valuable tool for providing remote healthcare services, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Kingfield, Maine (ZIP Code 04947) is significantly influenced by the challenges of transportation and healthcare access. The long drive times, limited public transit, and potential limitations of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. While medical transport services offer a lifeline, their cost and the need for advance booking can create logistical challenges. Improving the health score requires a multifaceted approach, including expanding public transportation, promoting ride-sharing, and exploring telehealth options. For those considering moving to Kingfield, a thorough assessment of these factors is essential to ensure access to timely and quality healthcare.