Navigating Healthcare in Rural Communities: How PVH Bridges the Gap

Living in a small Northern Maine town, like Lincoln, comes with many perks: the beauty of nature, tight-knit communities, and a slower pace of life. However, when it comes to healthcare, rural residents often face unique challenges:

Travel Distance: Specialized care in larger cities requires travel, which can be time-consuming, costly, and difficult, especially for those without reliable transportation and uncertain road conditions in Maine winters.

Lack of Transportation: For individuals who are elderly, have disabilities, or lack access to reliable transportation, traveling to a city for care may not even be an option.
Impact on Emergency Situations: In urgent or emergency cases, having to travel long distances for care and healthcare access can be the difference between life and death.

How PVH Bridges the Gap

At PVH, we believe no one should have to compromise their health because of where they live. That’s why we’ve taken proactive steps to bring essential services to our community, here are some of the services we offer, close to home.

Specialty Clinics Close to Home
One of our key initiatives is expanding our specialists in various fields, eliminating the need for long trips to larger cities. Be sure to ask your Primary Care Provider for a referral to our specialty clinics below:

Orthopedics: For joint pain, injuries, or chronic conditions like arthritis.

Urology: Providing expert care for bladder health, prostate concerns, and other urinary issues.

Pain Management: To find guidance and solutions to pain that is limiting your life.

Behavioral Health Services: Support and treatment options to address mental and behavioral health problems.

Comprehensive Primary and Preventive Care
Our family medicine providers serve as the first line of defense, ensuring patients have access to preventive care, routine checkups, and early detection of health concerns. With strong connections with our specialists, PVH providers can seamlessly coordinate follow-up care. Stop into PVH Primary Care, 252 Enfield Road, Lincoln, ME to see providers with available openings.

On-Site Diagnostic Services
PVH offers advanced imaging and laboratory services right here in Lincoln, allowing patients to complete essential tests and diagnostics without traveling far. From X-rays, MRIs and ultrasounds to lab work, our facility is equipped to handle your needs. Your provider can send a referral, or we have many diagnostic services patients can schedule themselves. Call 207-794-3321 to learn more.

Rehab & Wellness Clinic
Oftentimes, your healthcare journey requires rehabilitation services, such as those of a Physical, Speech, or Occupational Therapist. Our team of Therapists are here to help, close to home, so you can get back to yourself in no time. Visit www.pvhme.org/services to learn more.

Personalized Care with a Community Focus
Being a rural hospital means we’re part of the same community we serve. At PVH, our team goes above and beyond to provide personalized, compassionate care that reflects our deep commitment to the people of Lincoln and the surrounding areas.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Our Impact
PVH is constantly looking for ways to grow and improve access to care. Whether through recruiting additional specialists, investing in new technology, or partnering with organizations to grow and improve, we remain dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of our community.

We’re Here for You
Navigating healthcare in a rural area can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At PVH, we’re proud to be the trusted healthcare partner for Lincoln and beyond, providing access to specialized care, preventive services, and compassionate support close to home. If you or a loved one need care, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can overcome the challenges of healthcare in a rural community.