48122, Melvindale, Michigan Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 48122, Melvindale, Michigan is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.34 percent of residents in 48122 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beaumont Hospital - Dearborn with a distance of 1.92 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 48122 (Melvindale, Michigan)**

Considering a move to Melvindale, Michigan (ZIP code 48122)? Prospective residents often prioritize factors like affordability, schools, and community. However, assessing **healthcare access**, particularly for conditions like breast cancer, is crucial. This report provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for 48122, evaluating **transportation** options and proximity to essential medical services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, equipping you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.

Melvindale, a small city nestled in the heart of Metro Detroit, presents a unique **healthcare access** landscape. Its location offers both advantages and challenges when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The presence of major thoroughfares and proximity to Detroit's medical hub are positives. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate a comprehensive assessment.

**Drive Times and Highway Access:**

For individuals diagnosed with or at risk of breast cancer, timely access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment is paramount. The primary arteries serving 48122 are the Southfield Freeway (M-39) and I-75, providing crucial links to major hospitals and medical centers.

Driving from central Melvindale to Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, a prominent cancer treatment center, typically takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The route primarily involves navigating the Southfield Freeway (M-39) south and then east on Ford Road. Rush hour, especially weekdays between 7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM, can significantly extend this commute.

To reach the Detroit Medical Center (DMC), a major healthcare provider with comprehensive cancer services, the drive is slightly longer, approximately 20-30 minutes. This journey often involves taking the Southfield Freeway (M-39) north to I-94 east or the Lodge Freeway (M-10) north, depending on the specific DMC facility.

For those seeking specialized care at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, the drive time is similar to the DMC, roughly 20-30 minutes. The most common route involves taking the Southfield Freeway (M-39) north and then navigating local roads.

Smaller, community-based clinics and primary care physicians are often accessible within a 5-10 minute drive, providing convenient access for routine check-ups and initial consultations. However, for specialized oncology services, the larger hospitals are the primary destinations.

**Public Transit Options:**

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) provides bus service within the city and surrounding areas. However, public **transportation** options in Melvindale are limited, potentially posing a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles.

The primary DDOT route serving Melvindale is Route 54, which travels along Allen Road, a major north-south thoroughfare. Route 54 provides connections to other DDOT routes and the SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional **Transportation**) system, expanding access to other parts of the Detroit metropolitan area.

While DDOT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, the frequency of service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a concern. Waiting times can be lengthy, and transfers may be required to reach hospitals and medical centers.

SMART offers additional bus routes, including the FAST (Frequent Affordable Service **Transportation**) routes, which operate on major corridors with higher frequency. However, the FAST routes may not directly serve Melvindale, necessitating transfers.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, relying solely on public **transportation** for frequent medical appointments can be arduous. The lack of direct routes to hospitals and the potential for delays necessitate careful planning and consideration.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Melvindale, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public **transportation**. These services provide on-demand **transportation** to hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers can vary, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like LogistiCare and ModivCare, provide specialized **transportation** for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with boarding and alighting, and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

Medical **transportation** services typically require prior arrangements and may involve pre-authorization from insurance providers. The availability of these services and the associated costs should be carefully investigated.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations:**

Based on the assessment of **transportation** options, the Breast Cancer Score for 48122 is moderate. While the proximity to major hospitals and the availability of ride-sharing services are positive factors, the limited public **transportation** options and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges.

For individuals with personal vehicles, the drive times to hospitals are generally manageable. However, those reliant on public **transportation** may face difficulties, especially for frequent appointments.

The Breast Cancer Score should be considered alongside other factors when evaluating the suitability of Melvindale for **healthcare access**. Individuals with pre-existing conditions or a higher risk of breast cancer should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and the availability of support services.

**Moving to Melvindale** requires careful planning. Researching the specific healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and available support services is crucial. Consider the potential for traffic delays, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical **transportation** services.

**Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for 48122 reflects a mixed bag of advantages and disadvantages. While the location offers proximity to excellent cancer treatment centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options require careful consideration. Prospective residents should thoroughly evaluate their **transportation** needs, research available resources, and plan accordingly to ensure adequate **healthcare access** in this vibrant Detroit suburb.