48017, Clawson, Michigan Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 48017, Clawson, Michigan is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.71 percent of residents in 48017 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry Ford Macomb Hospital with a distance of 10.94 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clawson, MI (ZIP Code 48017)

Considering a move to Clawson, Michigan, and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for someone with Alzheimer's? This analysis provides a "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options within and from the 48017 ZIP code. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport to understand the ease and challenges of accessing vital healthcare services. This is crucial for anyone contemplating a move, ensuring the best possible quality of life.

The Alzheimer's Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value. Instead, it's a qualitative evaluation of the transportation landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses related to healthcare access for individuals with cognitive impairments. The goal is to provide a clear picture for informed decision-making.

Clawson, a charming Oakland County city, offers a relatively compact footprint, making local navigation generally manageable. However, the dependence on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit, presents challenges when considering healthcare access for those with Alzheimer's. The ability to navigate to and from appointments, manage medication refills, and access emergency care is paramount.

**Driving Times: The Heart of the Matter**

Driving is the primary mode of transportation in Clawson. Assessing drive times to healthcare facilities is critical. Within the 48017 ZIP code and its immediate surroundings, several medical facilities are readily accessible.

Beaumont Hospital, Troy, a major healthcare provider, is reachable via **I-75** (the Chrysler Freeway) or **Crooks Road**. The drive, depending on traffic, typically takes 15-25 minutes. The **I-75** corridor, while efficient, can experience significant congestion, especially during peak hours. Consider the stress this might impose on someone with Alzheimer's.

Henry Ford Hospital, Bloomfield Township, is another important option. Accessing it involves navigating **14 Mile Road** and **Telegraph Road**, or utilizing the **I-75** and **M-10** (Lodge Freeway) interchange. Travel time varies from 20-35 minutes, again subject to traffic conditions. The complexity of these routes necessitates a careful evaluation of the individual's ability to manage the drive.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices are often located along **14 Mile Road**, **Rochester Road**, and **Main Street** in Clawson. These locations are generally accessible within 5-10 minutes. This proximity is a significant advantage, particularly for routine appointments and quick access to primary care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation in Clawson, and the surrounding areas, is provided by the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART). However, the availability of public transit is limited, making it a less viable option for many residents, particularly those with cognitive impairments.

The primary bus routes serving Clawson include routes that travel along **14 Mile Road** and **Rochester Road**. These routes, while offering a connection to larger transportation hubs, are not frequent, and require transfers to reach many healthcare facilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SMART buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on transfers, the potential for long wait times, and the inherent challenges of navigating a complex public transit system can be overwhelming for someone with Alzheimer's.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services are readily available in Clawson, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost can be a significant factor, and the reliance on a smartphone and app-based ordering system may pose challenges for some individuals.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, provide a crucial alternative. Companies like Senior Care Transportation and MedRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. The cost of these services is typically higher than ride-sharing, but the specialized care and support they offer can be invaluable.

**Healthcare Access: A Synthesis**

Clawson offers a mix of advantages and disadvantages regarding healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. The proximity of some medical facilities is a major plus. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides essential alternatives to driving. However, the limited public transit options, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, pose challenges.

**Moving to Clawson: A Thoughtful Approach**

If you are considering moving to Clawson for someone with Alzheimer's, carefully weigh the transportation factors. Assess the individual's ability to manage driving, or the availability of a caregiver to provide transportation. Explore the costs and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Consider the proximity of healthcare providers and the accessibility of their facilities.

The Alzheimer's Score for Clawson is not a simple pass/fail. It's a call for thoughtful planning and proactive measures. By understanding the transportation landscape and carefully evaluating the individual's needs, you can make an informed decision and ensure the best possible quality of life. The success of a move hinges on the ability to navigate the transportation system effectively and safely, allowing for continued access to the necessary healthcare services.