48045, Harrison Township, Michigan Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 48045, Harrison Township, Michigan is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.06 percent of residents in 48045 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mclaren Macomb with a distance of 2.99 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Harrison Township (48045)

Considering a move to Harrison Township (48045) and concerned about breast cancer care? Understanding the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for this critical need, is paramount. This "Breast Cancer Score" delves into the transportation landscape impacting your ability to reach essential medical services, offering insights into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. This information allows for a more informed decision, ensuring convenient and timely healthcare access.

The foundation of any healthcare journey is transportation. In Harrison Township, the primary arteries for automobile travel are Interstate 94 (I-94), a major east-west thoroughfare, and Jefferson Avenue (M-29), a significant north-south route. These highways and roads are crucial for accessing specialized medical facilities, including those offering comprehensive breast cancer care.

Drive times, of course, fluctuate with traffic. Rush hour, typically between 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, can significantly extend travel durations. For example, a trip to Beaumont Hospital, Troy, a prominent cancer center, could take approximately 30-45 minutes during off-peak hours via I-94 West. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily stretch to an hour or more, impacting appointment schedules and potentially increasing stress.

Public transportation offers an alternative, although the options are limited. The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides bus service within Macomb County, including routes serving Harrison Township. While SMART doesn't directly connect to every major medical center, it can be a viable option for portions of the journey.

Route 801, for instance, travels along Jefferson Avenue, offering a potential connection to transfer points. The accessibility of these routes is also a factor. SMART strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a constraint.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, present another layer of transportation options. These services offer on-demand access to rides, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. The availability of ride-sharing in Harrison Township is generally good, though surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can impact costs.

Medical transportation services also play a crucial role in healthcare access. These specialized companies focus on transporting patients to and from medical appointments. They often offer door-to-door service, accommodating individuals with mobility challenges. While these services provide a valuable lifeline, it's important to investigate the cost, insurance coverage, and scheduling procedures.

For breast cancer care, the proximity to comprehensive cancer centers is a significant factor. Beaumont Hospital, Troy, as mentioned, is a prominent option. McLaren Macomb Hospital in Mount Clemens is also a local resource, offering a range of cancer services. The drive to these facilities from Harrison Township via I-94 or Jefferson Avenue is generally manageable, but the fluctuations in traffic and the need for timely arrival necessitate careful planning.

The choice of a healthcare provider is personal. However, considering the ease of transportation is essential. The journey to and from appointments, chemotherapy sessions, radiation treatments, and follow-up visits can be demanding. The shorter the commute, the less burden on the patient.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, within a reasonable distance is vital. These services can provide invaluable emotional and practical support during the challenging journey of breast cancer treatment.

When assessing healthcare access, consider the following: the distance to the nearest cancer center; the drive time during peak and off-peak hours; the availability and reliability of public transportation; the cost and availability of ride-sharing services; and the existence of medical transportation options.

Moving to Harrison Township, with its proximity to major roadways and some public transit options, offers a reasonable level of healthcare access. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning, especially for those facing breast cancer treatment.

The availability of ride-sharing services provides a convenient alternative. The presence of medical transportation companies adds another layer of support, ensuring that patients can reach their appointments safely and reliably.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Harrison Township (48045) is not a simple numerical rating. Instead, it is a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape, highlighting the various options available and the factors that influence healthcare access.

For individuals considering a move to Harrison Township, this information is crucial. It allows for a more informed decision, considering the practical aspects of accessing healthcare and the impact on quality of life. It also allows for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the transportation landscape.

By understanding these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure that they have access to the care they require. This is not just about the distance to the hospital; it's about the ability to navigate the complexities of transportation, making healthcare access a reality, and allowing for a smoother journey through breast cancer treatment.