04983, Strong, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04983, Strong, Maine is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.16 percent of residents in 04983 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 14.60 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04983 (Strong, Maine)

The health of a community hinges on many factors, but readily available healthcare is undeniably paramount. This analysis delves into the accessibility of medical services for residents of ZIP Code 04983, Strong, Maine, assessing the ease of *transportation* to providers and the overall impact on *healthcare access*. We'll consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the current landscape.

Strong, nestled in the heart of Franklin County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. Its rural character, while offering scenic beauty and a close-knit community, often translates to longer travel distances and limited *transportation* choices. This assessment aims to provide a clear understanding of the realities faced by residents seeking medical care, ultimately informing strategies to improve *healthcare access* and promote a healthier community.

The primary mode of *transportation* for most residents in Strong is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Driving is the most direct route to medical facilities, but the distances can be significant. The nearest hospital, Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington, is approximately 15 miles away, requiring a drive of around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The primary route involves traveling south on Route 149, then connecting with US Route 2, a major thoroughfare.

Other healthcare options, such as specialized clinics or urgent care centers, may necessitate longer journeys. Accessing services in Augusta, the state capital, or even Portland, the state's largest city, can involve drives exceeding an hour and a half, utilizing highways like Interstate 95. These longer travel times can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic conditions, those requiring frequent appointments, or those lacking reliable *transportation*.

Public transit options in Strong are limited, reflecting the rural nature of the area. The Western Maine Transportation Services (WMTS) offers demand-response service, providing transportation to medical appointments and other essential destinations. However, this service requires advance booking and may not always be readily available, especially for urgent needs. WMTS operates throughout Franklin County, and the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities.

The WMTS service, while valuable, is not a comprehensive public *transportation* network. Its schedule and routes are determined by demand, making it less convenient than a fixed-route system. The availability of public transit is a critical factor in *healthcare access*, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Strong. The lack of these services further compounds the *transportation* challenges faced by residents. This absence underscores the need for alternative solutions, such as expanded public transit options or community-based *transportation* programs.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are crucial for emergency situations. The local ambulance service, operated by the town of Strong, provides vital care during critical moments. However, for non-emergency medical *transportation*, options are limited. Some private companies may offer patient *transportation* services, but these can be costly and may require advance arrangements.

The availability of specialized medical *transportation* services, such as those equipped for dialysis patients or individuals requiring oxygen, is also a significant consideration. The need for these specialized services can add complexity to the *transportation* equation, particularly for those with chronic illnesses.

The overall health score for *healthcare access* in ZIP Code 04983 is moderate. While Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington provides a relatively accessible option, the limitations in public transit, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant barriers for some residents. The rural nature of the area and the distances to specialized medical facilities further complicate the situation.

Improving *healthcare access* in Strong requires a multi-pronged approach. Expanding public *transportation* options, potentially through increased funding for WMTS or the implementation of a community shuttle service, would be beneficial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized *transportation* for medical appointments could also improve *healthcare access*.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services, where patients can consult with healthcare providers remotely, could reduce the need for travel. Investing in community health programs that offer *transportation* assistance to medical appointments could further alleviate the burden on residents. The local government and community organizations should work together to develop and implement strategies that address the *transportation* challenges faced by residents.

The need for reliable *transportation* to healthcare is a crucial element in the overall health and well-being of the community. The development of a robust and accessible *transportation* network will significantly enhance the quality of life for residents of Strong, improving *healthcare access* and fostering a healthier future.

For those *moving to Strong*, understanding the limitations of *transportation* options and the distances to medical facilities is essential. Careful planning and consideration of *transportation* needs are crucial to ensuring continued access to healthcare. The community should actively work towards improving the *transportation* infrastructure to meet the needs of all its residents. The goal is to make Strong a place where *healthcare access* is not a barrier, but a readily available resource, ultimately fostering a healthier and more vibrant community.