04984, Temple, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04984, Temple, Maine is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.02 percent of residents in 04984 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Franklin Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.92 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Temple, Maine (ZIP Code 04984)

Assessing the overall health of a community involves more than just the quality of its medical facilities; it encompasses the ease with which residents can access them. For the residents of Temple, Maine (ZIP code 04984), a rural community nestled in the heart of Franklin County, the journey to healthcare is a significant factor in their overall well-being. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of healthcare services, focusing on transportation options and their impact on the community.

The primary concern for Temple residents is the distance to major healthcare providers. The town itself is relatively small, lacking its own hospital or extensive medical facilities. This necessitates travel to larger towns and cities, predominantly Farmington and Augusta, for specialized care and comprehensive services. The drive to Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington, the closest major hospital, typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location within Temple and traffic conditions. This journey primarily involves navigating Route 27, a well-maintained but often winding road that connects Temple to Farmington.

Further afield, Augusta, the state capital, offers a wider array of healthcare options, including MaineGeneral Medical Center. The drive to Augusta spans approximately 45 to 60 minutes, mostly via Route 27 and Route 2, a longer commute that can be impacted by weather conditions and the volume of traffic, especially during peak hours. This longer travel time adds to the potential stress and inconvenience for residents seeking medical attention, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in Temple are limited. Franklin County, like many rural areas, lacks a robust public transit system. There is no dedicated bus route serving Temple directly. This absence significantly impacts those who do not own a car, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, effectively limiting their access to healthcare. Reliance on family, friends, or community support networks becomes crucial for these individuals, further highlighting the transportation challenges.

While traditional public transit is scarce, alternative transportation solutions exist, albeit with varying degrees of availability and accessibility. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, while present in the broader region, may have limited availability in Temple. The demand is lower, and the distances involved can make it less appealing for drivers. Residents would need to plan ahead and possibly schedule rides in advance, adding complexity to their healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive themselves. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, and availability may be limited, especially during peak hours or for appointments scheduled on short notice. Investigating the specific medical transport brands and their service areas is crucial for anyone moving to Temple and relying on this option.

The availability of healthcare professionals within Temple itself is also a factor. The presence of a local primary care physician or a small clinic significantly enhances the overall health score. These local resources provide immediate access to basic medical care, reducing the need for frequent trips to larger facilities. However, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, or dermatologists, is likely limited, necessitating travel to Farmington or Augusta.

For residents considering moving to Temple, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. The rural nature of the area means that personal vehicles are essential for accessing healthcare. The ability to drive, or the availability of a reliable driver, is a critical determinant of healthcare access. Individuals with mobility limitations or those who do not drive must carefully assess the availability and affordability of alternative transportation options.

The "Overall Health Score" for Temple, Maine (04984) is moderately impacted by transportation challenges. While the drive to Farmington is relatively short, the lack of public transit, the potential limitations of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services create barriers for some residents. The longer commute to Augusta further compounds these challenges.

The score is also affected by the availability of local healthcare resources, the presence of a primary care physician or clinic, and the ability to quickly access basic medical care within the community. The score would improve with enhanced public transportation options, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and subsidies for medical transport for low-income residents.

In conclusion, while Temple offers a tranquil and close-knit community, the accessibility of healthcare is a significant consideration. Prospective residents must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of alternative solutions to ensure their healthcare access needs are met. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the balance between the quality of healthcare available in the region and the challenges associated with accessing it, a crucial aspect to consider when moving to Temple.