48017, Clawson, Michigan Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis 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 Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak with a distance of 2.28 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clawson (ZIP Code 48017)

Considering a move to Clawson, Michigan (ZIP Code 48017), and managing arthritis? This write-up provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment, focusing on the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** points. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, considering the specific needs of individuals with mobility challenges. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Clawson** seeking to understand the practicalities of managing their health.

The Arthritis Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value. Instead, it's a qualitative evaluation of the accessibility of healthcare, considering the challenges arthritis presents. We will examine the practicalities of getting to appointments, considering pain, fatigue, and limited mobility. This will help you assess if Clawson offers the necessary support for your healthcare needs.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

Clawson's location in Oakland County offers relatively easy access to various medical facilities. However, the severity of arthritis symptoms will influence how you perceive these commutes. The primary roadways impacting travel are I-75, Woodward Avenue (M-1), and 14 Mile Road.

Driving to Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, a major healthcare provider, is a common destination. From Clawson, you can take 14 Mile Road east to Woodward Avenue, then south to the hospital. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, is approximately 10-15 minutes. This route, while relatively short, can be impacted by Woodward Avenue's traffic, particularly during rush hour.

Alternatively, you can utilize I-75. Accessing I-75 from Clawson involves navigating local roads like Main Street or Rochester Road. The drive to Beaumont Hospital via I-75 might take 15-20 minutes, but this route is vulnerable to freeway congestion.

For appointments at Henry Ford Macomb Hospital, which is further north, the drive time will increase. This journey typically involves using I-75 north, and can take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer commute may be challenging for individuals experiencing significant pain or fatigue.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices are scattered throughout the area. Drive times will vary depending on the location, but generally, access to medical care by car is considered feasible, provided you account for traffic and your personal mobility limitations.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides public transit services in the area. Several bus routes serve Clawson, offering an alternative to driving. However, using public transit with arthritis requires careful consideration.

Route 461, the Woodward Avenue route, runs along Woodward Avenue, providing access to healthcare facilities in Royal Oak and Detroit. This route offers connections to other SMART routes, expanding your travel options. However, the frequency of buses, particularly during off-peak hours, might be limited.

Route 461, and other SMART routes, are ADA-compliant. This means buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users and other mobility devices. Designated seating is also available. However, navigating bus stops, waiting in potentially inclement weather, and the physical act of boarding and disembarking can be challenging.

Other routes, such as Route 450, which travels along 14 Mile Road, may also provide access to healthcare facilities, depending on their location. Carefully researching the specific routes and schedules is essential to determine their suitability for your needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Clawson. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or using public transit. However, the cost can be a factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Consider the ease of getting in and out of the vehicle. The driver's assistance may vary. You may need to specify your needs when booking.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations, are also available. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including help with getting to and from your appointment. However, these services tend to be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Beyond transportation, consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to your potential residence. Are there rheumatologists, physical therapists, and pain management specialists within a reasonable distance?

Research the accessibility of the facilities themselves. Do they have accessible parking, elevators, and waiting areas? Can you easily navigate the building with a mobility aid?

**The Arthritis Score Conclusion:**

Clawson, in terms of **healthcare access**, presents a mixed bag for individuals with arthritis. The proximity to major hospitals like Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, is a significant advantage. Driving is generally feasible, but traffic can be a factor. Public transit offers an alternative, but requires careful planning and may present physical challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transportation provide additional options, but at a cost.

The "Arthritis Score" for Clawson is therefore "Moderate to Good." The ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** is contingent on individual needs and preferences. For individuals with severe mobility limitations, the reliance on specialized transportation services may be necessary. For those who can drive or utilize ride-sharing, access is generally good.

Before **moving to Clawson**, thoroughly research the specific healthcare providers you need and assess the accessibility of their locations. Consider the impact of traffic, the availability of public transit, and the costs of ride-sharing. This proactive approach will help you determine if Clawson is the right fit for your healthcare needs and overall well-being.