48173, Rockwood, Michigan Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 48173, Rockwood, Michigan is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.05 percent of residents in 48173 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Trenton with a distance of 1.35 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rockwood, Michigan (ZIP Code 48173)

The decision to relocate, particularly to a new community like Rockwood, Michigan (ZIP code 48173), is multifaceted. For individuals managing asthma, a crucial consideration is healthcare access. This 'Asthma Score' assesses the ease of commuting to medical facilities, analyzing transportation options and their suitability for individuals with respiratory sensitivities. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this Downriver community.

Rockwood, a charming town nestled in Wayne County, presents a unique landscape for those seeking respiratory care. Its proximity to larger cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor offers a wide range of specialists and hospitals, but the commute, especially for those experiencing an asthma exacerbation, can be a significant challenge. Understanding the available transportation options is paramount.

**Driving to Healthcare: Navigating the Roadways**

The most common mode of transportation in Rockwood is personal vehicles. Several hospitals and clinics are within a reasonable driving distance, but the routes can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Interstate 75 (I-75), US-24 (Telegraph Road), and Huron River Drive.

Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, a key healthcare provider, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via I-75 North, depending on traffic. The route, while straightforward, can be prone to delays. Alternatively, taking US-24 (Telegraph Road) north to Eureka Road and then east offers another option, but this route often experiences heavier traffic, potentially extending the commute to 30 minutes or more.

For those seeking specialized care at the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, the drive is considerably longer. This journey typically takes 45 minutes to an hour via I-94 West, again contingent on traffic conditions. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially during an asthma episode.

The driving experience itself can present challenges for asthma sufferers. Vehicle exhaust, pollen during seasonal changes, and the stress of navigating traffic can trigger symptoms. Therefore, understanding these routes and their potential hazards is crucial.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus System**

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) provides public transit options in the area, including routes that serve Rockwood. However, the frequency of service and the directness of routes to healthcare facilities are significant considerations.

The primary DDOT routes serving Rockwood are the 125 (Fort Street) and the 160 (Southfield). These routes offer connections to other DDOT lines and the SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) system, which can extend travel options. However, these routes primarily run along major thoroughfares, and the transfer points may require walking outdoors, exposing individuals to potential triggers.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. All DDOT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations. However, the availability of real-time tracking information and the overall reliability of the service can vary, impacting the predictability of arrival times.

The SMART system offers additional routes, but their coverage in Rockwood is limited. While some routes may provide connections to hospitals and clinics, the travel times are often significantly longer than driving, and the need for multiple transfers can be burdensome.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services offer door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for walking and reducing exposure to potential triggers. However, the availability of these services in Rockwood can fluctuate, and the cost can be a factor.

Medical transportation services, like CareRide and MedRide, specialize in transporting patients to medical appointments. These services often offer specialized vehicles equipped with medical equipment and trained drivers. While they offer a higher level of care and comfort, they can be more expensive than ride-sharing services.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

Evaluating healthcare access requires a holistic perspective. The 'Asthma Score' considers not only transportation options but also the proximity of pharmacies, urgent care facilities, and primary care physicians. Rockwood has local pharmacies and urgent care facilities, providing immediate care for minor asthma exacerbations. However, for specialized care, the need to travel to hospitals in nearby cities becomes more prevalent.

The decision to move to Rockwood requires careful consideration of your individual needs. While the community offers a pleasant environment, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access must be weighed against the benefits.

**Moving to Rockwood: A Personalized Assessment**

For individuals with asthma, a personalized assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Consider the frequency of medical appointments, the severity of asthma symptoms, and the availability of support systems. If regular access to specialized care is required, the longer commute times to hospitals in Detroit or Ann Arbor may be a significant factor.

Ultimately, the 'Asthma Score' for Rockwood is not a definitive number but a framework for evaluating the complexities of healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and choose the best course of action. This write-up offers a starting point for anyone considering Rockwood as a new home, helping them navigate the intricacies of healthcare access in this unique community.