Health Scores Near 04975, Shawmut, Maine
You may also like
The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04975, Shawmut, Maine is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
0.00 percent of residents in 04975 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Inland Hospital with a distance of 6.71 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 04975, Shawmut, Maine
| Overall Health Score | 82 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 56 |
| Provider Score | 86 |
| Hospital Score | 60 |
| Travel Score | 41 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 04975 | Shawmut | Maine |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2.13 |
| 1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 18.39 |
| 2 Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 45.49 |
| 3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 34.00 |
Vehicular Access in 04975, Shawmut, Maine
## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04975 (Shawmut, Maine)
The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access vital resources, and chief among these is healthcare. This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP code 04975 (Shawmut, Maine), focusing specifically on the accessibility of medical services. We will examine the available **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and assess their impact on **healthcare access** for those living in this rural area. This information is especially pertinent for individuals considering **moving to Shawmut** and seeking to understand the practicalities of maintaining their well-being.
The overall health score is a composite metric, taking into account drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing and medical transport options, and the presence of ADA-compliant features. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare providers within a reasonable timeframe and with minimal physical and financial burden. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score highlights potential challenges.
**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**
The primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare in Shawmut is the personal vehicle. The geography of the area is characterized by rolling hills, farmlands, and a sparse population density. This necessitates reliance on roads for travel. The major thoroughfare serving the area is U.S. Route 201, a vital artery that connects Shawmut to larger towns and cities.
Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in the overall health score. The closest hospitals and urgent care centers are located in Skowhegan (approximately 10-15 minutes via U.S. Route 201), and Waterville (approximately 20-30 minutes via U.S. Route 201 and Interstate 95). Specialized medical services, such as those offered by specialists, may require travel to Augusta (approximately 45-60 minutes via Interstate 95) or Portland (approximately 1.5-2 hours via Interstate 95), significantly increasing travel time.
Road conditions are generally well-maintained, but seasonal weather, particularly during the winter months, can pose challenges. Snow and ice can cause delays and increase the risk of accidents. Residents should be prepared for potential travel disruptions and plan accordingly, especially when scheduling appointments.
**Public Transit Options**
Public transit options in Shawmut are limited. The primary provider is Kennebec Explorer, offering fixed-route bus service throughout Kennebec County. However, service to Shawmut is infrequent, with limited routes. The routes that do serve the area are not specifically designed for healthcare access.
The current public transit infrastructure presents challenges for **healthcare access**. The limited frequency of routes and the potential for long travel times can create significant barriers for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas of the ZIP code.
ADA-compliant features on the Kennebec Explorer buses are available, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. This is crucial for ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, the limited service frequency and route coverage remain significant limitations.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural parts of the ZIP code. The reliability of these services for healthcare appointments can be uncertain.
Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services are typically provided by private companies and may be covered by insurance, but the cost can vary. Some of the medical transport brands available include: Care Ambulance Service, LifeFlight of Maine, and Delta Ambulance.
The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can improve **healthcare access**, but their cost, availability, and potential for delays must be carefully considered. These options may be particularly valuable for individuals who are unable to drive or who have limited access to public transit.
**Healthcare Facilities and Services**
The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial determinant of the overall health score. While Shawmut itself does not have a hospital, urgent care center, or specialty clinics, the proximity to Skowhegan and Waterville provides access to a range of medical services.
Redington-Fairview General Hospital in Skowhegan offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient clinics. Inland Hospital in Waterville provides similar services, along with specialized care.
The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers in the surrounding areas is a positive factor. However, the distance to these facilities and the reliance on personal vehicles or other forms of **transportation** can still pose challenges for some residents.
**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**
Considering the factors outlined above, the overall health score for **healthcare access** in ZIP code 04975 is moderate. While the proximity to Skowhegan and Waterville provides access to essential medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for travel delays during inclement weather create challenges.
For individuals considering **moving to Shawmut**, it is essential to carefully assess their individual healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities. Those without access to a personal vehicle may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare.
To improve the overall health score, several recommendations can be made. Increased public transit service, including more frequent routes and extended hours, would significantly improve **healthcare access**, particularly for those without personal vehicles. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.
Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of home healthcare options could reduce the need for travel and improve **healthcare access** for all residents. Investing in road infrastructure improvements, such as snow removal and road maintenance, would enhance safety and reduce travel times.
Ultimately, the health of a community is a shared responsibility. By addressing the challenges and implementing the recommendations outlined above, the residents of Shawmut can work together to create a healthier and more accessible healthcare environment for everyone.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like
